MPG by Model

MakesSubaruForester

Subaru Forester MPG

Its best-rated version reaches 35 MPG combined in 2025–2026, the hybrid Forester Hybrid AWD. Its weakest year peaked at 21 MPG (1998–2004).

Subaru Forester: best and lowest EPA combined MPG of its versions, model years 1998–2026152025303540MPG19982005201020152020202635 MPG peaklowest peak 21Subaru Forester: best and lowest EPA combined MPG by model year152025303540MPG199820002002200420062008201020122014201620182020202220242026
lowest to best versionbest versionbest version is a hybridmedian of its class
428.6 gal

a year at 15,000 miles for the best 2026 version, the Forester Hybrid AWD. Put it next to its 1998 predecessor, at your own mileage.

Compare in gallons

The Subaru Forester has EPA ratings for 29 model years, 1998–2026, most often among small SUVs. Its best version ranked third (tied) of 74 SUVs in 2005, behind the class leader, the Ford Escape, and it placed in its class top five in four model years.

Among 69 small SUVs, 2026

The Forester placed 14th. The class leader was the Kia Niro at 53 MPG. The next higher rating, 36 MPG, is shared by three nameplates.

Best EPA combined MPG of each of the 69 small SUVs rated for 202620253035404550Forester 35median 27NiroBest EPA combined MPG of each of the 69 small SUVs rated for 202620253035404550Forester 35median 27

The Forester, five years at a time

Average rating of its best version per span, placed in the class it sat in most often.

1999–03ninth of 47SUVs
2004–0811th of 75SUVs
2009–1319th of 88SUVs
2014–1812th of 50small SUVs
2019–2319th of 70small SUVs
2024–2613th of 64small SUVs

Powertrains under the name

  • Gasoline

    Rated in 1998–2026.

  • Hybrid

    Rated in 2025–2026.

All 29 model years, best and lowest version
Model yearsBest versionCombinedCity / hwyLowest versionVersions
2025–2026Forester Hybrid AWD hybrid3535 / 34264
2022–2024Forester AWD2926 / 33262
2019–2021Forester AWD2926 / 33291
2017–2018Forester AWD2826 / 32243
2015–2016Forester AWD2724 / 31253
2014Forester AWD2724 / 31243
2011–2013Forester AWD2321 / 27213
2009–2010Forester AWD2220 / 27213
2008Forester AWD2220 / 27204
2007Forester AWD2220 / 26204
2006Forester AWD2220 / 27204
2005Forester AWD2320 / 27194
2004Forester AWD2119 / 25184
2000–2003Forester AWD2119 / 25212
1998–1999Forester AWD2119 / 25202

Version names in the EPA list: Forester AWD, Forester Hybrid AWD, Forester Sport/Touring AWD, Forester Wilderness AWD.

Same class, 2026

Kia Niro53 MPGSubaru Crosstrek36 MPGLincoln Corsair33 MPGMaserati Grecale20 MPG

Read next: SUVs with the best EPA ratings by year · How to read this page