Subaru’s Top 10 Best-Selling Models: A Comprehensive Guide to Fuel Efficiency and Performance

Subaru’s Top 10 Best-Selling Models: A Comprehensive Guide to Fuel Efficiency and Performance

Discover Subaru’s top 10 best-selling models in our comprehensive guide, highlighting their impressive fuel efficiency and performance. From the versatile Forester to the all-electric Solterra, explore key specifications like fuel tank capacities, MPG ratings, and electric ranges. Whether you’re a Subaru enthusiast or a first-time buyer, this guide will help you make an informed decision on the perfect model for your needs. Embrace quality, safety, and eco-friendly options with Subaru’s innovative lineup.

1. Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester has consistently been one of the brand’s top-selling models, known for its versatility and practicality. Let’s examine its fuel efficiency and tank capacity across recent generations:

2024 Subaru Forester

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency: 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 Forester continues to impress with its balanced fuel economy, making it an excellent choice for both city driving and longer trips. Its 16.6-gallon fuel tank allows for a theoretical range of over 500 miles on the highway, providing ample distance between fill-ups.

2023 Subaru Forester

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency: 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as its successor, demonstrating Subaru’s commitment to consistent performance.

Forester Wilderness Edition

It’s worth noting that the Wilderness Edition, introduced in recent years, has slightly different fuel economy figures due to its more rugged setup:

• Fuel Efficiency: 25 MPG city / 28 MPG highway / 26 MPG combined

While the Wilderness Edition sacrifices some fuel efficiency, it gains in off-road capability, catering to adventure-seeking Subaru enthusiasts.

2. Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback, often described as a crossover between a wagon and an SUV, has been a staple in the Subaru lineup for years. Let’s explore its fuel efficiency and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru Outback

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.4L turbocharged engine): 23 MPG city / 30 MPG highway / 26 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 Outback offers two engine options, with the base 2.5L engine providing excellent fuel economy. The larger fuel tank compared to the Forester allows for even greater range between fill-ups, potentially exceeding 600 miles on the highway.

2023 Subaru Outback

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.4L turbocharged engine): 23 MPG city / 30 MPG highway / 26 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model, showcasing Subaru’s consistency in performance.

Outback Wilderness Edition

Similar to the Forester, the Outback Wilderness Edition has slightly different fuel economy figures:

• Fuel Efficiency: 22 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 24 MPG combined

The Wilderness Edition’s more rugged setup and increased ground clearance result in a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, but it gains significant off-road capabilities.

3. Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek, a compact crossover SUV, has gained popularity for its blend of efficiency and versatility. Let’s examine its fuel efficiency and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru Crosstrek

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 28 MPG city / 34 MPG highway / 30 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (for non-hybrid models)

The 2024 Crosstrek offers impressive fuel efficiency, especially with the 2.0L engine. Its 16.6-gallon fuel tank allows for a range of over 500 miles on the highway, making it an excellent choice for road trips.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency: 90 MPGe combined (electric + gasoline)
• Electric-Only Range: Approximately 17 miles
• Fuel Efficiency (gasoline only): 35 MPG combined

The Crosstrek Hybrid offers exceptional efficiency, with the ability to run on electric power for short trips. Its smaller fuel tank is offset by the improved overall efficiency.

2023 Subaru Crosstrek

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 28 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 30 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 27 MPG city / 34 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (for non-hybrid models)

The 2023 model year had similar fuel efficiency to the 2024 model, with slight variations depending on the engine choice.

4. Subaru Legacy

The Subaru Legacy, a midsize sedan, offers a comfortable ride with impressive fuel efficiency. Let’s explore its fuel economy and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru Legacy

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 27 MPG city / 35 MPG highway / 30 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.4L turbocharged engine): 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway / 27 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 Legacy offers excellent fuel efficiency, especially with the base 2.5L engine. Its large 18.5-gallon fuel tank allows for a highway range of over 600 miles, making it an ideal choice for long-distance driving.

2023 Subaru Legacy

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.5L engine): 27 MPG city / 35 MPG highway / 30 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (2.4L turbocharged engine): 24 MPG city / 32 MPG highway / 27 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model, demonstrating Subaru’s consistency in performance.

5. Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza, available as both a sedan and a hatchback, is known for its compact size and efficiency. Let’s examine its fuel economy and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru Impreza

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway / 31 MPG combined (CVT)
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 26 MPG city / 33 MPG highway / 29 MPG combined (Manual)
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 Impreza offers impressive fuel efficiency, especially with the CVT transmission. Despite its smaller 13.2-gallon fuel tank, it can still achieve a highway range of over 450 miles.

2023 Subaru Impreza

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 28 MPG city / 36 MPG highway / 31 MPG combined (CVT)
• Fuel Efficiency (2.0L engine): 24 MPG city / 31 MPG highway / 26 MPG combined (Manual)
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year had similar fuel efficiency to the 2024 model for the CVT version, but slightly lower efficiency for the manual transmission.

6. Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ, a sports car developed in collaboration with Toyota, offers a different driving experience compared to other Subaru models. Let’s explore its fuel efficiency and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru BRZ

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (Manual): 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (Automatic): 21 MPG city / 30 MPG highway / 25 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 BRZ, while not as fuel-efficient as other Subaru models due to its performance-oriented nature, still offers reasonable efficiency for a sports car. Its 13.2-gallon fuel tank provides a highway range of over 350 miles with the automatic transmission.

2023 Subaru BRZ

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (Manual): 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (Automatic): 21 MPG city / 30 MPG highway / 25 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model.

7. Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX, a high-performance sedan, offers thrilling driving dynamics with a balance of efficiency. Let’s examine its fuel economy and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru WRX

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (Manual): 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (Automatic): 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway / 21 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 WRX, while focused on performance, still manages to deliver reasonable fuel efficiency for its class. Its 16.6-gallon fuel tank allows for a highway range of over 400 miles.

2023 Subaru WRX

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency (Manual): 19 MPG city / 26 MPG highway / 22 MPG combined
• Fuel Efficiency (Automatic): 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway / 21 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model.

8. Subaru Ascent

The Subaru Ascent, the largest SUV in the Subaru lineup, offers three-row seating with impressive capability. Let’s explore its fuel efficiency and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru Ascent

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.3 gallons
• Fuel
• Fuel Efficiency: 21 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A (no electric variant available)

The 2024 Ascent offers respectable fuel efficiency for a large three-row SUV. Its 19.3-gallon fuel tank provides a substantial highway range of over 520 miles, making it an excellent choice for family road trips.

2023 Subaru Ascent

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.3 gallons
• Fuel Efficiency: 21 MPG city / 27 MPG highway / 23 MPG combined
• Electric Range: N/A

The 2023 model year maintained the same fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model, demonstrating Subaru’s consistency in performance across model years.

9. Subaru Solterra

The Subaru Solterra, introduced as the brand’s first all-electric vehicle, represents Subaru’s entry into the EV market. Let’s examine its electric range and efficiency:

2024 Subaru Solterra

• Fuel Tank Capacity: N/A (all-electric vehicle)
• Full Charge Capacity: 72.8 kWh
• Electric Range: Up to 228 miles (EPA-estimated)
• Efficiency: 94 MPGe combined city/highway

The 2024 Solterra offers an impressive electric range, making it suitable for daily commutes and longer trips. Its efficiency of 94 MPGe combined demonstrates Subaru’s commitment to eco-friendly transportation.

2023 Subaru Solterra

• Fuel Tank Capacity: N/A (all-electric vehicle)
• Full Charge Capacity: 72.8 kWh
• Electric Range: Up to 228 miles (EPA-estimated)
• Efficiency: 94 MPGe combined city/highway

The 2023 model year, which marked the Solterra’s debut, offered the same range and efficiency as the 2024 model.

Solterra Variants

The Solterra is available in different trim levels, but all share the same battery capacity and range. However, factors such as driving conditions, temperature, and use of climate control can affect the actual range.

10. Subaru XV (International Markets)

The Subaru XV, known as the Crosstrek in North America, is popular in international markets. Let’s explore its fuel efficiency and tank capacity:

2024 Subaru XV (International Model)

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 63 liters (approximately 16.6 gallons)
• Fuel Efficiency: Varies by market and engine option, typically ranging from 6.5 to 7.5 L/100km combined (approximately 31-36 MPG combined)
• Electric Range: N/A (for non-hybrid models)

The 2024 XV offers similar fuel efficiency to its North American counterpart, the Crosstrek. Its 63-liter fuel tank provides a substantial range, making it suitable for various driving conditions.

2023 Subaru XV (International Model)

• Fuel Tank Capacity: 63 liters (approximately 16.6 gallons)
• Fuel Efficiency: Similar to the 2024 model, varying by market and engine option
• Electric Range: N/A (for non-hybrid models)

The 2023 model year maintained similar fuel efficiency and tank capacity as the 2024 model in international markets.

Comparing Fuel Efficiency Across Subaru’s Top 10 Models

To better understand how Subaru’s top-selling models compare in terms of fuel efficiency, let’s look at a side-by-side comparison of their combined MPG ratings (using 2024 model year data for the most current information):

This comparison highlights that most of Subaru’s mainstream models (Forester, Outback, Crosstrek, Legacy, and Impreza) offer similar fuel efficiency, ranging from 29 to 31 MPG combined for their base engines. The performance-oriented models (BRZ and WRX) naturally have lower fuel efficiency due to their focus on power and driving dynamics. The Ascent, as a larger SUV, has slightly lower efficiency but still performs well for its class. The Solterra, as an all-electric vehicle, stands out with its high MPGe rating.

Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency in Subaru Models

Several factors contribute to the fuel efficiency of Subaru vehicles:

1. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, while providing excellent traction and stability, can impact fuel efficiency. The system adds weight and drivetrain friction compared to front-wheel-drive vehicles. However, Subaru has continually refined this system to minimize its impact on fuel consumption.

2. BOXER Engine Design

Subaru’s horizontally-opposed BOXER engine layout offers several advantages, including a lower center of gravity and improved balance. While this design can contribute to better handling and performance, its impact on fuel efficiency can vary depending on the specific engine and vehicle model.

3. Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Most Subaru models now come equipped with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which can help improve fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power range. Models with CVT generally show better fuel economy compared to their manual transmission counterparts.

4. Aerodynamics

Subaru has made efforts to improve the aerodynamics of its vehicles, which can have a significant impact on fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Models like the Legacy and Impreza benefit from sleeker designs, while SUVs like the Forester and Outback have been refined to reduce drag despite their larger profiles.

5. Vehicle Weight

The weight of a vehicle plays a crucial role in its fuel efficiency. Subaru has worked to balance the need for safety features and all-wheel-drive capability with efforts to reduce vehicle weight where possible.

Subaru’s Approach to Improving Fuel Efficiency

Subaru has implemented several technologies and strategies to enhance the fuel efficiency of its vehicles:

1. Direct Injection

Many Subaru engines now feature direct fuel injection, which improves fuel atomization and allows for more precise control over the combustion process. This technology contributes to better fuel efficiency and power output.

2. Start-Stop Technology

Some Subaru models are equipped with start-stop technology, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it when the brake pedal is released. This feature can help reduce fuel consumption in urban driving conditions.

3. Hybrid Technology

Subaru has introduced hybrid technology in models like the Crosstrek Hybrid, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor to improve overall efficiency. The company is likely to expand its hybrid offerings in the future.

4. Cylinder Deactivation

While not currently implemented across the lineup, Subaru has explored cylinder deactivation technology, which can shut down a portion of the engine’s cylinders during light load conditions to save fuel.

5. Aerodynamic Improvements

Subaru continues to refine the aerodynamics of its vehicles, incorporating features like active grille shutters, underbody panels, and optimized exterior designs to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency.

The Future of Fuel Efficiency in Subaru Models

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, Subaru is adapting its strategies to meet increasing demands for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Here are some areas where we can expect to see developments in future Subaru models:

1. Expanded Electrification

With the introduction of the Solterra, Subaru has taken its first step into the all-electric vehicle market. We can expect to see more electric models in the future, as well as an expansion of hybrid options across the lineup. This shift will significantly impact the overall fuel efficiency and environmental impact of Subaru’s fleet.

2. Advanced Combustion Technologies

For its gasoline engines, Subaru is likely to continue refining combustion technologies. This could include higher compression ratios, more advanced fuel injection systems, and possibly the implementation of technologies like homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) to further improve efficiency.

3. Lightweight Materials

The use of lightweight materials, such as high-strength steel, aluminum, and possibly even carbon fiber composites in certain applications, could help reduce vehicle weight and improve fuel efficiency across the Subaru lineup.

4. Improved Aerodynamics

Expect to see even more focus on aerodynamic efficiency in future Subaru models. This could include active aerodynamic elements, further refinement of vehicle shapes, and possibly even the integration of camera-based side mirrors to reduce drag.

5. Next-Generation Transmissions

While Subaru has largely embraced CVT technology, we may see further refinements or even new transmission technologies that offer an optimal balance of performance and efficiency.

Conclusion: Subaru’s Commitment to Efficiency and Performance

Subaru has built a reputation for producing vehicles that offer a unique blend of performance, safety, and practicality. As we’ve seen in this comprehensive examination of their top 10 best-selling models, the brand has also made significant strides in fuel efficiency across its lineup.

From the efficient Impreza to the spacious Ascent, and now with the all-electric Solterra, Subaru offers a range of vehicles that cater to different needs while maintaining a focus on fuel economy. The consistent fuel efficiency figures across model years demonstrate Subaru’s commitment to refining and improving their vehicles without compromising their core values.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, with increasing emphasis on electrification and environmental consciousness, Subaru is well-positioned to adapt and innovate. The introduction of hybrid technologies and the brand’s first all-electric vehicle show that Subaru is ready to embrace the future of automotive engineering.

For consumers, this means that choosing a Subaru doesn’t just mean opting for a capable and reliable vehicle – it also means investing in a brand that is actively working to balance performance with efficiency and environmental responsibility. Whether you’re looking for a compact car for city driving, a spacious SUV for family adventures, or an eco-friendly electric vehicle, Subaru’s lineup offers options that provide impressive fuel economy without sacrificing the brand’s signature attributes of safety and all-weather capability.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that Subaru will continue to innovate in the realm of fuel efficiency and alternative powertrains. This ongoing commitment ensures that Subaru will remain a relevant and compelling choice for car buyers who value both performance and efficiency in the years to come.