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How Subaru is Leading the Way in Fuel Economy: A Comprehensive Guide for Drivers Near Sunset Hills, MO

Sep 5, 2025

How Subaru is Leading the Way in Fuel Economy: A Comprehensive Guide for Drivers Near Sunset Hills, MO

Fuel economy is a top priority for many drivers in Sunset Hills, MO, and surrounding communities like Crestwood, Webster Groves, and Fenton. Subaru has made remarkable strides in improving fuel efficiency across its lineup without compromising the brand’s well-known all-wheel-drive capability and safety features. Whether you’re searching for a new ride or want tips on maximizing your current Subaru’s gas mileage, this guide covers everything you need to know. For personalized assistance, feel free to contact us at (314) 476-9638 or visit us in person at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127.

Table of Contents

Seven Key Ways Subaru Enhances Fuel Economy

Improving fuel economy while maintaining Subaru’s signature safety and AWD capabilities is no small feat. Subaru employs multiple advanced strategies to ensure their vehicles deliver both power and efficiency, making them excellent choices for drivers in communities like Ladue, Twin Oaks, and Valley Park.

1. Hybrid Electric Drive Systems
Subaru’s hybrid technology, seen prominently in models like the Crosstrek Hybrid, combines gasoline and electric power to reduce fuel consumption significantly. The plug-in hybrid variant achieves up to 90 MPGe, making it one of the most efficient SUVs available. This system intelligently switches between electric-only, hybrid, and gasoline modes, optimizing energy use for city and highway driving.

2. Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) Technology
Subaru leads with PZEV-certified vehicles across the U.S., including Missouri. These models meet California’s stringent emissions standards, featuring ultra-clean exhaust and zero evaporative emissions. PZEV technology integrates enhanced catalytic converters, tighter fuel injectors, and charcoal canisters to trap fuel vapors, ensuring reduced pollution without sacrificing fuel efficiency.

3. Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
The Lineartronic CVT replaces traditional automatic transmissions with a system that offers seamless gear changes and optimal engine speed. By keeping the engine at its most efficient RPM, this transmission reduces fuel consumption and improves acceleration smoothness, particularly beneficial for stop-and-go driving in urban areas like Concord and Richmond Heights.

4. Subaru BOXER Engine Design
The horizontally opposed BOXER engine lowers the vehicle’s center of gravity, improving balance and handling while reducing mechanical friction. This design aids in better combustion efficiency, translating to improved fuel economy and enhanced driving dynamics.

5. Aerodynamic Enhancements
Subaru models feature carefully crafted body designs that minimize air resistance. Elements like streamlined roof rails and underbody panels reduce drag, especially at highway speeds common on routes around St Charles and Crestwood, contributing to fuel savings.

6. Efficient Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
While AWD is often associated with increased fuel consumption, Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system is optimized to balance traction and efficiency. It uses a lightweight design and precise power distribution to avoid unnecessary fuel use, essential for drivers navigating the changing seasons in Fenton and Maplewood.

7. Lightweight Materials and Subaru Global Platform
The Subaru Global Platform integrates high-strength steel and weight-saving materials to reduce overall vehicle mass. Less weight means the engine works less to propel the vehicle, improving fuel economy without compromising safety or durability.

Together, these seven innovations underscore Subaru’s commitment to delivering vehicles that respect both driver expectations and environmental concerns. Customers in Sunset Hills and nearby areas can explore these technologies firsthand by browsing our New Subaru Inventory or checking out special offers at Current New Car Specials.

Which Subaru Models Are the Most Fuel-Efficient?

Understanding which Subaru models excel in fuel efficiency helps drivers in St Louis, Glendale, and Richmond Heights make informed decisions. Here’s an overview of the top performers based on the latest EPA estimates for 2025 models.

Subaru Legacy: The Most Efficient Non-Hybrid Sedan
The Legacy leads Subaru’s lineup with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. This midsize sedan offers a spacious, comfortable interior coupled with standard AWD, making it ideal for longer commutes on highways near Twin Oaks or Valley Park. The Legacy balances fuel efficiency with a smooth ride and solid handling.

Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: The Fuel Economy Champion
For those prioritizing fuel savings, the Crosstrek Hybrid stands out with a combined EPA rating of 35 mpg and an impressive 90 MPGe when utilizing electric power. Its compact size, higher ground clearance, and AWD make it suitable for urban and suburban driving in areas such as Ladue and Webster Groves.

Subaru Impreza: Compact Efficiency
The Impreza is a practical choice for city drivers in Crestwood or Sappington, delivering 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Available in sedan and hatchback variants, it offers versatility without compromising on fuel economy.

Subaru Forester: Spacious and Economical
The Forester, a favorite among families in Chesterfield and Maryland Heights, offers 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, with a hybrid variant that improves city efficiency by 40%. The Forester’s cargo space and AWD capabilities make it an excellent all-weather performer with respectable fuel savings.

Subaru Outback: Versatility with Efficiency
The Outback combines wagon practicality with SUV capability, achieving 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. Its turbocharged trims offer more power but slightly lower fuel economy. Outback owners in Fenton and Oakland appreciate its balance of capability and fuel savings.

For more detailed information, visit our dedicated inventory pages for the Legacy, Crosstrek, Impreza, Forester, and Outback.

Driving Habits That Maximize Your Subaru’s Fuel Economy

Even the most fuel-efficient Subaru can experience reduced mileage with aggressive driving or neglectful habits. Drivers in Sunset Hills, Maryland Heights, and nearby communities can implement these proven techniques to boost gas mileage.

Accelerate Gently and Smoothly
Rapid acceleration burns more fuel. Gradually pressing the accelerator over 5 seconds to reach 20 mph helps conserve fuel. Imagine carrying a cup of coffee on your dashboard—don’t spill it!

Maintain a Steady Speed
Avoid frequent speed fluctuations. Using cruise control on highways, such as I-44 near Chesterfield, maintains constant speed and improves efficiency. However, slight speed variations when descending hills can save fuel by using gravity.

Anticipate Traffic and Avoid Sudden Stops
Keep a safe distance and observe traffic ahead. Anticipating stops and slowing gradually reduces brake use and conserves momentum, saving fuel.

Stay Within Optimal Speed Ranges
Most vehicles are most efficient between 50 and 80 mph. Driving at 120 mph uses about 20% more fuel than at 100 mph, cutting minimal time but increasing consumption significantly.

Reduce Vehicle Load and Drag
Remove unnecessary weight like sports gear or sandbags. Also, take off roof racks when not in use to reduce wind resistance, which can increase fuel use by up to 20% at highway speeds.

Use Air Conditioning Wisely
While AC consumes fuel, driving with windows down increases drag. When possible, use the AC’s recirculate mode to minimize energy use.

By adopting these driving habits, you can lower fuel consumption by up to 25%. For professional advice or vehicle checks, schedule service with us anytime via Schedule Service and Diagnostics.

Advanced Subaru Technologies That Boost Performance and Efficiency

Subaru blends performance with fuel efficiency through unique engineering, distinct from competitors. Here’s how key technologies contribute to this balance:

Horizontally-Opposed BOXER Engine
Its flat design lowers the car’s center of gravity, enhancing stability and reducing mechanical friction. This leads to improved combustion efficiency and better fuel economy, especially noticeable on winding roads around Lakeshire and Webster Groves.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Unlike many AWD systems, Subaru’s symmetrical AWD uses a balanced layout that optimizes power delivery and reduces energy loss. This system supports fuel efficiency by engaging AWD only when necessary, benefiting drivers in regions with varied weather like Crestwood and St Charles.

Lineartronic CVT
This continuously variable transmission maintains the engine at optimal RPM for fuel efficiency, providing smooth acceleration and better mileage compared to conventional automatics.

Hybrid Systems
Subaru’s mild hybrids (e-Boxer) and plug-in hybrids use electrification to supplement the gasoline engine, reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The integration with Toyota’s hybrid technology enhances reliability and efficiency.

Subaru Global Platform
This platform uses lightweight, high-strength materials to improve vehicle rigidity and reduce weight. Less weight means less effort for the engine, enhancing fuel economy and ride comfort.

Explore the benefits of these innovations by visiting our parts department for genuine components at Find Subaru Parts or by browsing our full New Subaru Inventory.

Understanding Why Some Subaru Models Use More Fuel

Some Subaru vehicles may appear to use more fuel due to several factors, which are important to understand for drivers in communities like Richmond Heights or Twin Oaks.

Driving Style and Conditions
Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and frequent braking dramatically increase fuel consumption. Urban stop-and-go traffic in areas like Maplewood can also reduce mileage compared to steady highway driving.

Vehicle Load and Accessories
Carrying heavy cargo or using roof racks increases weight and aerodynamic drag, forcing the engine to work harder.

Engine Type and Tuning
Turbocharged models like the Subaru WRX or Outback XT offer more power but generally consume more fuel than their non-turbo counterparts.

Maintenance Issues
Poorly maintained vehicles with clogged air filters, low tire pressure, or worn spark plugs burn more fuel. Regular service can prevent these inefficiencies.

Addressing these factors can lead to significant fuel savings. Schedule maintenance at our service center by clicking Schedule Service and Diagnostics.

Which Subaru Delivers the Best Fuel Economy?

While many Subaru models offer solid fuel efficiency, the clear leaders include:


  • Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid: The top gas mileage with 90 MPGe, ideal for environmentally conscious drivers in St Louis and surrounding areas.



  • Subaru Legacy: Best gasoline-only sedan with 35 mpg highway, combining efficiency and comfort.



  • Subaru Solterra: Subaru’s fully electric SUV, delivering zero emissions and an estimated range of 228 miles, perfect for drivers embracing future-forward technology.


For drivers in Sunset Hills and nearby neighborhoods seeking these models, explore our inventories at the following links:
New Subaru Crosstrek Inventory: View Here
New Subaru Legacy Inventory: View Here
New Subaru Solterra Inventory: View Here

How to Get Better Gas Mileage on Your Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is popular in Chesterfield and Valley Park for its versatility, but optimizing fuel economy requires attention to your driving and vehicle care.


  • Gentle Acceleration and Deceleration: Avoid hard starts and stops to conserve fuel.



  • Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Check monthly to reduce rolling resistance.



  • Regular Maintenance: Follow the manufacturer’s schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks.



  • Plan Efficient Routes: Combine errands and avoid traffic congestion in areas like Fenton and St Charles.



  • Limit Unnecessary Weight and Drag: Remove roof racks and unload excess cargo.


These tips can yield noticeable improvements in fuel economy. For maintenance support, schedule an appointment with our expert technicians at Schedule Service and Diagnostics.

Subaru’s PZEV Certification: What It Means for Fuel Economy and Emissions

Subaru’s Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) certification ensures vehicles meet rigorous emissions standards applicable nationwide, including in California. This certification:


  • Enforces Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) tailpipe standards.



  • Requires zero evaporative emissions through advanced fuel system designs.



  • Extends warranties on emissions components for up to 15 years or 150,000 miles.


For Missouri drivers in communities like Richmond Heights and Ladue, PZEV-certified models offer cleaner air benefits without a loss in performance or fuel economy. You can find PZEV-certified vehicles throughout our inventory, and learn more about emissions compliance by contacting our team.

Effective Strategies to Reduce Your Subaru’s Fuel Consumption

Reducing fuel consumption is achievable through a combination of better driving habits, vehicle care, and planning. Here are actionable steps for residents of Sunset Hills, Maryland Heights, and nearby areas:


  • Regularly Monitor Tire Pressure to avoid increased rolling resistance.



  • Remove Excess Weight such as sports equipment or supplies.



  • Limit Use of Roof Racks to reduce aerodynamic drag.



  • Use Recommended Motor Oil Grades for optimal engine performance.



  • Avoid Idling for extended periods to prevent wasting fuel.



  • Plan Efficient Routes to combine errands and minimize backtracking.



  • Drive at Moderate Speeds within the most fuel-efficient range.


For parts replacements and upgrades that support fuel efficiency, visit our Find Subaru Parts page.

Subaru’s Nationwide Emissions Certification and What It Means for You

All Subaru vehicles sold in the U.S., including Missouri, are certified for sale in all 50 states. This is possible because Subaru meets both federal and California emissions standards through:


  • Compliance with Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) requirements.



  • Meeting Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) exhaust standards.


This ensures that no matter where you drive—from St Louis to Chesterfield or Glendale—your Subaru meets the most stringent environmental regulations. This broad certification also guarantees your vehicle’s eligibility for registration and resale across state lines.

Explore Fuel-Efficient Subaru Vehicles at Sunset Hills Subaru

Whether you’re interested in the high-efficiency Subaru Legacy, the plug-in Crosstrek Hybrid, or the all-electric Solterra, Sunset Hills Subaru is your trusted local dealership. We proudly serve customers in Sunset Hills and nearby communities including Crestwood, Maplewood, and St Charles. Browse our extensive New Subaru Inventory or explore excellent options in our Used Vehicle Inventory. Don’t miss our Current New Car Specials and Service and Parts Specials for valuable savings.

If you’re ready to find out how much your current vehicle is worth, use our trade-in tool to Get your value trade. And for maintenance or performance optimization, make an appointment with our Service Department anytime at Schedule Service and Diagnostics.

Visit us today at 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127 or call (314) 476-9638 to experience Subaru’s perfect balance of fuel economy, performance, and reliability.

© 2025 Sunset Hills Subaru

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