Mercedes Mullins
Subaru has been working on improving the fuel efficiency of its vehicles, with some models being more fuel-efficient than others. The Subaru Crosstrek, for example, is one of the most fuel-efficient new Subaru crossover SUVs available. While some older models may not have been as fuel-efficient as newer ones, Subaru has been committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and carbon neutrality. In fact, Subaru, along with Toyota and Mazda, has pledged to shift away from fossil fuels and towards carbon-neutral alternatives, such as e-fuel, biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in their vehicle offerings, with some models providing impressive fuel efficiency.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel efficiency | Varies across models, with some being more fuel-efficient than others |
| Fuel type | Gasoline, diesel, and ethanol blends |
| Engine type | Horizontally-opposed piston engine |
| Carbon emissions | Developing new engines tailored to electrification and carbon neutrality |
| Environmental impact | PZEV-certified Subaru vehicles have ultra-low emissions |
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What You'll Learn
Subaru's Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV)
Subaru, along with Toyota and Mazda, has committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and the pursuit of carbon neutrality. As part of this commitment, Subaru has introduced its Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) technology.
The PZEV category was developed as part of an agreement between automakers and the California Air Resources Board (CARB). PZEV vehicles are considered to be environmentally friendly and are designed to meet strict standards. To qualify as a PZEV, a vehicle must have zero evaporative emissions from its fuel system, meet tailpipe emission standards, and offer a generous warranty on emission control parts.
Subaru's PZEV vehicles achieve a remarkable reduction in smog-forming emissions through modifications in four key areas. These include the use of anti-permeation fuel system liners, which prevent off-gassing, evaporation, and emissions due to fuel leakage. Additionally, PZEV vehicles feature close-coupled catalytic converters lined with precious metals like platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These converters efficiently eliminate nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide, converting them into less harmful gases.
Subaru's PZEV technology also includes modifications to the Engine Control Module (ECM) to address emissions in cold weather. These advancements make Subaru PZEVs the cleanest-running gas-powered vehicles, offering an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional gasoline engines.
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Fuel efficiency of different models
Subaru has a strong focus on creating fuel-efficient and cost-effective models for their drivers. Their innovative engineering and technology contribute to a lineup that not only excels in performance but also minimizes its carbon footprint. Some of their models feature start-stop technology, which shuts off the engine during idling to conserve fuel.
The Subaru Impreza is one of the most efficient Subaru vehicles available, thanks to its smaller stature, peppy performance, and impressive capability. The new Subaru Impreza lineup of five-door hatchbacks lets you choose from a standard 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that creates 152 horsepower and 145 pounds-feet of torque, while also delivering an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Impreza RS models use a larger 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that creates 182 horsepower and 176 pounds-feet of torque, all without sacrificing much fuel economy with an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Crosstrek is among the most fuel-efficient new Subaru crossover SUVs available. The Crosstrek Base and Premium models use a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that creates 152 horsepower and 145 pounds-feet of torque, while also rewarding you with an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Crosstrek Sport, Limited, or Wilderness model provides an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Outback offers up to 26 MPG in the city and up to 33 MPG on the highway with its all-wheel-drive powertrain. The Subaru Forester provides up to 26 MPG in the city and up to 33 MPG on the highway. The Subaru Ascent, a three-row SUV, surprises with its efficient fuel performance, offering approximately 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The Subaru Legacy is a midsize sedan that delivers a smooth ride and excellent gas mileage, with approximately 27 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway.
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Subaru's commitment to carbon neutrality
Subaru has demonstrated its commitment to carbon neutrality by partnering with Toyota and Mazda to develop new engines tailored to electrification and the use of carbon-neutral fuels. This shift away from fossil fuels includes compatibility with e-fuel (made from hydrogen and carbon dioxide), biofuels, and liquid hydrogen.
Subaru's horizontally-opposed piston engine design results in a low-profile engine with less vibration and a lower center of gravity. This unique engine design, along with their signature all-wheel-drive powertrains, sets them apart from their partners in this venture, Toyota and Mazda.
While Subaru vehicles have been known to be less fuel-efficient than some competitors, with older models exhibiting higher fuel consumption, the company is taking steps to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. For example, the Subaru Impreza is one of their most efficient models, offering an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Additionally, Subaru has been committed to environmental standards with their Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) certification. These vehicles are equipped with advanced gasoline engines that produce ultra-clean emissions with zero evaporative emissions, meeting stringent Super Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV) standards.
Looking to the future, Subaru has indicated plans to phase out their diesel engines and focus on electric vehicles. This aligns with their dedication to achieving carbon neutrality through a multi-pathway approach, as evidenced by their investment in electrification and compatibility with various carbon-neutral fuels.
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Gasoline and diesel engine options
Subaru vehicles are available with both gasoline and diesel engine options. The type of fuel used by a Subaru depends on the model and its engine type.
Gasoline Engine Options
Subaru gasoline engines are available in various models, including the Impreza, Crosstrek, Outback, and Forester. The Impreza, for example, offers a standard 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and an estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The larger 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine option provides 182 horsepower and an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Crosstrek, being a smaller SUV, also contributes to fuel efficiency. The Base and Premium models are equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 152 horsepower and an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Sport, Limited, and Wilderness models feature a more powerful 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and an estimated 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru Outback, a well-known model, offers fuel efficiency of up to 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway. In comparison, the Subaru Forester provides similar fuel economy, with up to 26 mpg in the city and up to 33 mpg on the highway.
Diesel Engine Options
Subaru has been manufacturing a diesel BOXER® engine; however, this option is not available in the United States. The company has indicated its shift in focus towards electric vehicles rather than continuing diesel engine production. Therefore, it is more likely that newer Subaru models will be electric rather than diesel-powered.
Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency
It is important to note that various factors can impact the fuel efficiency of a Subaru, especially when comparing different models or engine types. For instance, all-wheel drive and factory lifting in certain models can affect aerodynamics, resulting in a slight decrease in fuel efficiency. Additionally, older Subaru models, particularly those with performance turbo engines or early FB25 engines, may experience higher oil consumption due to design flaws. Regular maintenance and checking oil levels are essential to mitigate these issues.
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Ethanol blends and their impact on performance
Subaru owners have reported a variety of impacts on their vehicles' performance when using ethanol blends. Some have observed no issues with using E10 (10% ethanol blend) fuel, except for a reduction in miles per gallon. Others have expressed concerns about the impact of ethanol blends on engine life and performance, particularly in boats, where ethanol-laced gasoline has been linked to clogged fuel systems and dissolved fiberglass fuel tanks.
Ethanol-blended fuels have been reported to be less stable, deteriorate quicker, retain more water, and be more damaging to the rubber components of the fuel system. Additionally, some owners have noticed a dark brown tarnish on the brass parts of their carburettors after using ethanol-blended fuels. It is recommended that Subaru vehicles use gasoline with no more than 10% ethanol, as higher concentrations may cause fuel system damage or drivability issues that are not covered under the Subaru warranty.
However, some owners have successfully used E85 (85% ethanol) fuel in their Subarus, reporting performance comparable to C16 race gas but at a lower cost. To use E85, modifications are typically required, including a higher-flowing fuel pump and injectors, as well as tuning the engine. While some newer Subarus can handle E15 (15% ethanol), it is not recommended by the manufacturer due to potential issues and warranty concerns.
Subaru, along with Toyota and Mazda, has committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and carbon neutrality. These engines will be compatible with various carbon-neutral fuels, including e-fuel (made from hydrogen and carbon dioxide) and biofuels derived from biomass. This shift away from fossil fuels aims to contribute to the broader adoption of sustainable practices in the automotive industry.
In summary, while some Subaru owners have reported successful use of ethanol blends, particularly E10 and E85, others have experienced performance issues and concerns about engine longevity. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and be aware of the potential risks associated with using ethanol blends, especially higher concentrations like E15, which may void warranties. Subaru's commitment to electrification and carbon neutrality indicates a future focus on alternative fuels and sustainable practices.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, Subarus use fossil fuels. However, Subaru Corporation has committed to developing new engines tailored to electrification and carbon neutrality.
In the US, most Subarus use gasoline. Outside the US, Subaru has been making a diesel BOXER® engine for some time.
It depends on the model. The Subaru Crosstrek, Impreza, and Outback are considered fuel-efficient models, with the Crosstrek and Impreza getting an estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway. The Outback gets up to 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. However, some users have reported lower fuel efficiency, especially in older models.
The type of fuel you should use depends on your Subaru model and engine. Most Subarus use regular gasoline. Higher octane fuels like premium gasoline do not burn cleaner or provide more power, so there is no advantage to filling up with premium fuel unless your car specifically requires it. Some Subarus can use ethanol blends, but you should check your owner's manual for the safe limit.
Subaru has indicated that they plan to focus on making electric vehicles in the future, but it is unclear if any current models do not use fossil fuels.
