The official fuel economy estimates for the 2010 Legacy 2.5i Premium are 22 city / 29 highway with the manual and 23 / 31 with the Lineartronic CVT automatic.

We traveled over 500 miles in our 2.5-liter CVT-equipped Azurite Blue Pearl sedan review unit and inched past the official mileage estimates, scoring an average of 32.7 MPG on the Interstate highway and 27.8 MPG combined in changeable spring weather, with temperatures ranging from the mid-forties through the mid-eighties.

Interstate highway testing temperatures were in the low-fifties The test vehicle was equipped with the standard 16-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels, clad with 205/60 R16 91V all-season tires, and was delivered with less than 1000 miles on the odometer. We’d expect mileage to improve a bit as the engine is run through its break-in cycle.

Interstate Mileage Testing:

• Cruise control set to 68 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 31.8 MPG
• Cruise control off, target speed 60-72 MPH, A/C off, windows up: 33.6 MPG

While the 2.5-liter engine provides an adequate level of performance on regular unleaded gasoline, sport-oriented Legacy owners will likely opt for the turbo 2.5-liter Boxer four or naturally-aspirated 3.6-liter Boxer six. The 2010 Legacy 2.5i Premium weighs in at 3,275 pounds for the manual and 3,384 pounds for the CVT.

Highway driving range is generous. All 2010 Subaru Legacy models are fitted with an 18.5 gallon fuel tank. (While both naturally aspirated engines run on 87 octane regular unleaded fuel, the turbocharged four requires 93 octane premium unleaded.)

The Legacy provide two ways to keep track of real-time fuel efficiency: a cool old-school analog gauge and a digital display. The center-mounted digital display also provides two average fuel consumption counters, along with range to empty. (As always, we recommend using a real time MPG gauge to encourage a light-footed driving style.)

Ride and handling are solid. Like all Subaru models sold in the United States, the Legacy is only available with Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel-drive. Manual transmission-equipped cars use Continuous AWD with a viscous-coupling locking center differential, while CVT-equipped cars use Active AWD with an electronically managed continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch.

The CVT automatic provides a six-speed manual-shift mode, with control over gear changes via paddle shifters.

All 2010 Subaru Legacy models are equipped with four-wheel power-assisted disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, 4-channel/4-sensor ABS, and Brake Assist.

The Legacy’s cabin is comfortable, cleanly designed and driver-focused.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel provides a full set of controls. The driver’s seat features 10-way power adjustability, with excellent two-way power lumbar support.

Our test unit was equipped with Option Package Nine bundle, which includes:

• All-Weather-Package (heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icer, and heated side mirrors)
• 440-watt nine-speaker harmon/kardon premium audio system with wireless Bluetooth phone capability.
• Power moonroof

An audio input jack is standard. USB iPod support is optional (although our test unit was not equipped with the USB option). There’s a twelve-volt outlet inside the center console and another at the base of the dash.

Passengers won’t whine about getting in the back seat. The Legacy is a comfortable sedan. Rear seat headroom is reasonable at 37.5 inches.

The Legacy’s trunk provides 14.7 cubic feet of cargo area with the 60/40 rear seats up and sufficient room to haul larger items when the rear seats are folded down.

All-in-all, the 2010 Subaru Legacy is a solid choice for folks in the market for an AWD sedan and an excellent alternative to an AWD SUV or crossover in harsh climates. While current fuel economy numbers are good for AWD, we’re looking forward to the introduction of Subaru’s clean diesel engines in future model years, with a significant bump in both torque (50%) and fuel economy (30%) over the current gasoline-powered models.

Parts Content Information
US/Canadian Parts Content: 55%
Major Sources of Foreign Parts Content: Japan – 35%
Final Assembly Point: Lafayette, IN
Country of Origin:
Engine – Japan
Transmission – Japan

Our MPGomatic Subaru Forester review shows why the Forester became an immediate sales success. In its naturally-aspirated 2.5X trim, the 2009 Forester is enjoyable to drive and delivers solid gas mileage for a five-seat AWD, as it flirts with the 30 mile per gallon mark on the highway when driven carefully. (Although we haven’t had the chance to test the turbocharged XT version, we look forward to the opportunity.)

MPGomatic goes about things in a different way. We always recommend checking out a wide range of resources when considering the purchase of a new vehicle. Although our Forester review might miss a less obvious feature or two, our goal is to deliver a real world review from the driver’s seat. While this is a unique approach, it’s one that provides many benefits. Think of this as a bit of an open-source model. Instead of focusing on a checklist of features in our three-minute review, we’ve combed the Web to create a mashup of Forester reviews that paint a complete picture …

Kelly Blue Book’s Subaru Forester review comprehensively covers the Forester’s features and options, as it delves into the details with no shortage of long looks and pretty scenery. And as per its roots, KBB does a good job of covering the basic pricing and financial issues …

Edmunds’ InsideLine Subaru Forester review calls the Forester redesign a “ReForestation,” as it showcases the vehicle’s enhanced proportions and amenities. And when it comes to performance issues, Edmunds doesn’t spare the punches …

While most Foresters will stick to paved and gravel roads, it’s good to know that the tall wagon can handle the tough stuff, when called upon.

Ytater’s short 2009 Forester Off Road Test shows the Forester navigating a nasty wet patch, as it crawls through a segment of trail while precariously balancing on three wheels at a West Palm Beach Subaru training session …

drive-test.ro’s Subaru Forester Diesel 2.0 XS T-D Off Road Drive Test provides a peek at a diesel-powered European Forester conquering an off-road track near Bucharest, Romania …

Here’s to hoping we see the fuel-thrifty diesel Forester here in the States sooner, rather than later …

The Subaru Forester competes most closely with the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, Saturn VUE, and Nissan Rogue in the compact crossover all-wheel-drive (AWD) market. Subaru’s reliable Symmetrical AWD and less truck-like demeanor have won the Forester (and the brand) a loyal following.

Under the hood, the 2009 Forester is fitted with a 2.5 liter horizontally-opposed SOHC Boxer four cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower (HP) and 170 foot pounds of torque, in the 2.5X trim levels. A more powerful 224 HP turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine is standard issue in the 2.5XT and 2.5XT Limited versions.

The official gas mileage estimates for the naturally aspirated 2009 Subaru Forester are 20 city / 26 highway miles per gallon (MPG) when fitted with the standard 4-speed automatic transmission. (The five-speed manual transmission bumps the ratings up to 20/27.)

In hundreds of miles of driving, we easily beat the official estimates with our Topaz Gold Metallic Forester 2.5X Premium test unit, scoring an average of 29.2 MPG on the Interstate highway, with 25.6 MPG combined. Test period temperatures ranged from the thirties through fifties, with freeway speeds between 60 and 70 miles per hour (MPH).

While the Forester provides a two-mode average MPG monitor, the lack of a real-time MPG display was one of our only disappointments in a very capable vehicle. We did the best we could sans a real-time gauge. With the goal of keeping the lightest touch on the accelerator, as always. The further you can drive with your foot completely off the pedal, the higher you’ll score with regard to MPGs.

Although delivery is adequate throughout the powerband in the 2.5X models, spirited drivers will likely opt for the higher horsepower turbocharged engine in the 2.5XT.

Throughout our review, we found the Forester to be quite well mannered, with handling that is far more car-like then most of the competition. The tall wagon inspires confidence on both paved and unpaved surfaces, with the Symmetrical AWD providing plenty of grip when the road loosens up.

The cabin is well designed and roomy, with a generous amount of headroom. Steering wheel controls and a center console mounted audio input jack are standard issue, with USB iPod integration available as an option. There are three power outlets, one in the console, one in the dash, and one back in the hatch.

The All-Weather Package is a welcome and well-priced option for colder climates. For just $400, the package provides adjustable heated front seats, heated mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer.

Unlike the SUVs and crossovers that use side mounted tailgates, the Forester’s conventional top-mounted hatch allows for access to the cargo area from both sides of the vehicle. The sixty/forty rear fold-down seats can be easily folded down from the tailgate, and there’s there’s no shortage of room to haul the goods. With both rear seats folded down, the Forester provides 63 cubic feet of cargo space.

Overall, we found the Subaru Forester to be a capable and reassuring vehicle to drive in conditions both adverse and not. The roomy and comfortable interior is icing on the cake.

Fuel requirements: Regular-grade gasoline is specified for naturally aspirated Foresters. Turbocharged models require premium fuel.

Assembly/Parts Content: While Subaru has a widely-acclaimed manufacturing plant in Indiana, the Forester is assembled in Ota Gunma, Japan. Both the engine and transmission are of Japanese origin. 0% of the parts are produced in North America.

The Forester Mountain Rescue rolls on custom reversed “near zero” offset Subaru steel wheels wrapped with Yokohama Geolander MTS 30×9.50s. The way is lit by Subaru Baja Sport activity lights in front and Visi Light LED spotlights up on the roof rack.

In the back of the unit, Specialized Vehicles created the custom diamond plate load floor. Custom interior side paneling and storage compartments and a Dee Zee steel compartment separator are all business.

Under the hood, a 2.5 liter DOHC intercooled turbo Subaru Boxer four-banger delvers 224 horsepower and 226 foot pounds of torque. The power finds its way to the wheels with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 4.11:1 final drive ratio.

The EPA gas mileage estimates for the 2008 Legacy 3.0 R come in at 17 city / 24 highway. In a week of driving, we found those estimates to be low, as we achieved 27.3 on the highway and 21.9 in suburban driving in mid-thirty degree weather.

That’s not bad for an all wheel drive sedan with this much power.

The Legacy 3.0 R is fitted with a 3.0 liter six cylinder Subaru Boxer engine. The conventionally aspirated horizontally opposed six cranks out 245 horsepower and 215 foot pounds of torque.

Make no mistake about it. This is a driver’s car.

There’s plenty of power, the ride is smooth, and the handling is effortless with superb grip delivered by Subaru’s symmetrical all wheel drive.

Lets take a look inside the cabin …

The first time my teenage son settled into the shotgun seat he instantly remarked, “Wow, Dad … this is a Subaru? It looks like a BMW.” Not bad for a car built in Lafayette, Indiana.

The cabin has a high-end feel and is thoughtfully designed.

The perforated leather seats are comfortable and supportive. The heated front buckets with lumbar support are welcome respite after a long day on the slopes.

The rear seats’ 60/40 fold down with center pass-thru adds a good bit of flexibility on those winter trips … its great for keeping your skis and snowboards inside the car, instead of up on the roof.

The 3.0 R’s sound system rocks, with an integrated satellite radio, steering wheel controls, and a conveniently concealed iPod jack in the center console.

The grippy ribbed cupholder cover is a perfect spot for a cell phone and iPod.

Two features stand out for the sport and economy minded driver

The controls on the 3.0 R’s five speed automatic transmission let the sport sedan show its Jeckle and Hyde personality with just a flick.

A center console mounted knob allows the driver to instantly choose between Sport, Sport Sharp, an Intelligent transmission modes. Tool around in Intelligent mode and you find it to be smooth and quiet. Flick the knob to Sport or Sport Sharp for a more responsive throttle.

When you really want to take control, the shifter can be stirred as a manual slap stick … and for the boy or grrrrrl racer in you, the Legacy 3.0R’s steering wheel mounted paddle shifters are wicked cool.

Economy minded drivers will love the duel-mode fuel efficiency display … we know we did.

The flat panel display enables the driver to learn how to drive the Legacy 3.0R for maximum fuel efficiency. Spend a few hours driving with the fuel-economy display and you’ll optimize your mile per gallon ratings.

All-in-all, we found the Subaru Legacy 3.0 R to be an excellent choice for folks who enjoy spirited driving, while needing the safety and security of all wheel drive. The only nit we found to pick was the spaceship-inspired steering wheel … and we quickly got over it … after just one trip down our favorite twisty road.

The 2008 Subaru Legacy is available with three different engine configurations:

• Legacy 2.5i – 2.5 liter four cylinder Boxer engine, producing 170 horsepower (HP) and 170 foot pounds of torque.
• Legacy 2.4 GT Limited and Legacy GT spec.B – 2.5 liter turbocharged and intercooled four cylinder Boxer engine, producing 243 HP and 241 foot pounds of torque.
• Legacy 3.0 R Limited – 3.0 liter six cylinder Boxer engine, producing 245 HP and 215 foot pounds of torque.

Subaru Legacy Gas Mileage – 1992-2008

Note: the EPA tweaked their testing procedure, starting with the 2008 model year, with the end result being that the 2008 MPG estimates are now lower than previous years. As always, YMMV.

Simply put, the aerodynamics and vehicle weight of the bulkiest SUVs cause gas mileage to suffer, leading to many a painful transaction at the pump. The trick is to get small(er), lighter, and more slippery. Credit Subaru for getting the ball rolling with popularizing economical 4WD drive passenger cars in the early days. Since 1997, every vehicle Subaru’s offered in America has been all wheel drive.

These days, it’s not just Subaru. There are plenty of four wheel drive choices that are neither truck nor SUV. And forget the notion of pint-sized economy cars. You’ll find a generous helping of 4WD luxury from manufacturers including Audi, Volvo, Cadillac, and Lexus … in fact, you’ll find many of their offerings in the 2008 list of best gas mileage four wheel drives.

Purists will gladly share that there’s a difference between four wheel drive and all wheel drive (AWD). And surely there is … but for a great many folks, it comes down to two simple questions: will it go in the snow and will I go broke feeding it?

At the other end of the spectrum, the little Suzuki SX4 delivers plenty of bang for the buck, by combining the best four wheel drive gas mileage with a low sticker price (for those who don’t just think miles per gallon … but miles per dollar.)

Along with its corporate cousins, the Ford Escape Hybrid proves the exception to the rule as the highest all around mile per gallon (MPG) four wheel drive vehicle. If you can’t get a great deal on an Escape Hybrid at your local Ford dealer, take a look at the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. And if you happen to live in Southern California, the Mazda Tribute Hybrid HEV might be an option … as long as you’re able to snag one of the 350 Tribute HEVs built for this test market.)

2008 Best Gas Mileage Four Wheel Drives

• Audi A4
• Suzuki SX4
• Subaru Legacy
• Subaru Impreza
• Subaru Outback
• Jeep Compass
• Ford Escape Hybrid
• Jeep Patriot
• Subaru Forester
• Mazda Tribute Hybrid
• Mercury Mariner Hybrid
• Honda CR-V
• Volvo S60
• Volvo V50
• Volvo S40
• Toyota RAV4
• Cadillac CTS
• Cadillac STS
• Lexus IS 250
• Nissan Rogue

1979-1981 High MPG Cars 1982 High MPG Cars 1983 High MPG Cars 1984 High MPG Cars There’s no denying that there were some real clunkers in those big lists. But there’s one thing for sure. While the list of today’s 30 MPG cars might be shorter, the improvement in overall quality cannot be denied. Passing a federal law to raise the automakers’ overall fuel efficiency to 35 MPG by 2020 is just goofy when you get right down to it. With the natural shift that is currently underway, that goal may well be met in half the time purely through market forces. As the public more fully understands the choices that are currently available – and are soon to come to market – the shift will accelerate. The 2009 model year may very well prove to be the tipping point, as 1985 was in the opposite direction. A 30 MPG car might be considered by some (many?) Europeans to be a gas guzzler. The cars sold abroad are not all that different. Yes, there are differences in environmental and safety systems, but the facts remain. A great many of the cars that our very own American automakers sell in Europe far exceed their domestic models when it comes to fuel-efficiency.

30 MPG Cars – 2008 Audi A4 Audi A4 Cabriolet Audi TT Coupe Chevrolet Aveo Chevrolet Aveo 5 Chevrolet Cobalt Chevrolet HHR Chevrolet HHR Panel Chevrolet Malibu Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid Chrysler Sebring Dodge Avenger Ford Escape Hybrid FWD Ford Focus Honda Accord 2DR Coupe Honda Accord 4DR Sedan Honda Civic Honda Civic Hybrid Honda Fit Hyundai Accent Hyundai Elantra Hyundai Sonata Kia Optima Kia Rio Kia Spectra Mazda Mazda3 Mazda Tribute Hybrid 2WD Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec Mercury Mariner Hybrid FWD Mini Cooper Convertible Nissan Altima Nissan Altima Coupe Nissan Altima Hybrid Nissan Sentra Nissan Versa Pontiac G5 Pontiac G6 Pontiac Vibe Saturn Aura Saturn Aura Hybrid Suzuki SX4 Suzuki SX4 Sedan Toyota Camry Toyota Camry Hybrid Toyota Solara Toyota Corolla Toyota Matrix Toyota Prius Toyota Scion XD Toyota Yaris Volkswagen EOS

2008 Cars – 30 MPG Highway

Note: the EPA tweaked their testing procedure, starting with the 2008 model year, with the end result being that the 2008 MPG estimates are now lower than previous years. As always, YMMV.

The domestic 2008 Outback and Outback 2.5i are fitted with Subaru’s naturally-aspirated 2.5 liter SOHC 16-valve four-cylinder Boxer engine, rated at 170 horsepower (HP) and 170 foot pounds of torque. The Outback 2.5 XT Limited is equipped with a turbocharged variant of the 2.5 liter four banger Boxer, producing 243 HP and 241 foot pounds of torque. The top of the line Outback R L.L.Bean Edition is fitted with a naturally-aspirated six cylinder Boxer engine, producing 245 HP and 215 foot pounds of torque.

Subaru Outback Gas Mileage – 2003-2008

Note: the EPA tweaked their testing procedure, starting with the 2008 model year, with the end result being that the 2008 MPG estimates are now lower than previous years. As always, YMMV.

The 2008 Subaru Forester is available with two engine choices, based on model. The Forester 2.5 X, Sports 2.5 X and 2.5 X L.L. Bean Edition (shown above) are fitted with a naturally-aspirated 2.5 liter four-cylinder boxer engine, rated at 173 horsepower. The Forester 2.5 XT, Sports 2.5 XT, and 2.5 XT Limited are equipped with an inter-cooled, turbocharged version of the 2.5 liter boxer engine, rated at 224 horsepower.

Subaru Forester Gas Mileage – 1998-2010

Note: the EPA tweaked their testing procedure, starting with the 2008 model year, with the end result being that the 2008 MPG estimates are now lower than previous years. As always, YMMV.