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How to Get Better Gas Mileage on Your Subaru: Expert Tips from Sunset Hills Subaru

Jul 23, 2025

How to Get Better Gas Mileage on Your Subaru: Expert Tips from Sunset Hills Subaru

Improving your Subaru’s gas mileage is not only great for your wallet but also beneficial for the environment. Whether you’re commuting through the bustling streets of Richmond Heights, cruising the scenic roads near Webster Groves, or heading out for a weekend adventure around Chesterfield, optimizing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency can make a significant difference. At 10100 Watson Rd, Sunset Hills, MO 63127, we understand the importance of fuel economy and are here to provide you with actionable advice to get the most miles per gallon (MPG) from your Subaru.

If you have questions or need expert maintenance to keep your Subaru running efficiently, call us at (314) 476-9638 or Schedule Service and Diagnostics to optimize your vehicle’s performance.

Table of Contents

Efficient Driving Techniques: The Foundation for Better Gas Mileage

Driving habits profoundly affect fuel economy, often more than mechanical modifications. For Subaru drivers navigating busy routes in Glendale, Ladue, or Richmond Heights, adopting smart driving techniques can reduce fuel consumption by up to 25%.

First, accelerate gently. Rapid acceleration demands more fuel because the engine works harder to increase speed. Instead of flooring the gas pedal, think about gradually increasing your speed over roughly 5 seconds to reach 20 km/h. Picture carrying a cup of coffee on your dashboard — you want to avoid spilling it. This method is especially effective in stop-and-go traffic common in urban Maryland Heights.

Maintaining a steady speed also supports fuel efficiency. Frequent speed fluctuations cause the engine to burn more fuel, which can increase consumption by as much as 20%. Using cruise control on highways around Creve Coeur and Valley Park can help keep your speed consistent. However, it’s beneficial to let your vehicle slow slightly when climbing hills and regain momentum when descending, leveraging gravity to reduce engine strain.

Another critical tip is to anticipate traffic conditions. Keeping a safe following distance and reading the traffic ahead allows you to maintain smooth speed transitions. This reduces the need for sudden braking and acceleration, which are fuel-intensive. These techniques also enhance safety on busy Twin Oaks roads.

Avoiding high speeds is crucial as well. Subaru vehicles achieve optimal fuel efficiency typically between 50 and 80 km/h. Driving faster than this, such as speeds over 100 km/h on some St Louis expressways, causes fuel consumption to spike sharply—up to 20% more fuel at 120 km/h compared to 100 km/h. The time saved on such trips is minimal but comes at a significant fuel cost.

Finally, practice coasting to decelerate. Instead of braking hard, easing off the accelerator and letting your Subaru coast to slow down preserves momentum and saves fuel. This approach is especially useful for drivers in Webster Groves and Concord who frequently encounter stoplights.

By integrating these driving habits, Subaru owners in the St Louis metro area can experience noticeable improvements in fuel economy and reduce emissions simultaneously.

Subaru’s Seven Innovations Improving Fuel Economy

Subaru is committed to advancing fuel efficiency through cutting-edge technology, benefiting drivers throughout Chesterfield, Fenton, and Maplewood. Here are seven key ways Subaru enhances fuel economy:


  • Hybrid Electric Drive: The Subaru XV Crosstrek hybrid combines a gasoline engine with electric motors to optimize fuel use, especially in city driving conditions typical of Richmond Heights.



  • Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV) Technology: This system reduces harmful emissions while improving combustion efficiency, meeting stringent environmental standards that matter to eco-conscious drivers in St Charles.



  • Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): Subaru’s CVT adjusts gear ratios smoothly to maintain the engine at optimal RPMs, enhancing fuel economy during highway drives common in Ladue and Creve Coeur.



  • Subaru BOXER Engine: This unique horizontally opposed engine design lowers the center of gravity and improves balance, contributing to efficient power delivery and fuel savings for drivers in Valley Park.



  • Aerodynamic Enhancements: Subaru models feature body designs that minimize wind resistance, which can improve highway fuel economy by reducing drag—an advantage appreciated by commuters in Twin Oaks.



  • Efficient Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru’s AWD system is engineered to optimize power distribution while minimizing energy loss, delivering fuel savings without sacrificing traction on Missouri’s varied terrain.



  • Eco Mode Driving: Certain Subaru models include an Eco Mode that adjusts throttle response and climate control settings to maximize fuel efficiency in everyday driving.


These features combine to create a driving experience that balances performance with fuel economy, ideal for those living in or near Sunset Hills. For those interested in learning more about Subaru’s latest models, check out our extensive New Subaru Inventory.

Practical Ways to Reduce Your Subaru’s Fuel Consumption

Beyond driving style and technology, routine maintenance and smart habits play a pivotal role in lowering fuel consumption. Subaru owners in Webster Groves and Richmond Heights can take advantage of the following best practices.

Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential. Tires underinflated by as little as 8 psi can increase fuel consumption by up to 4%. Checking your tire pressure monthly ensures optimal rolling resistance and extends tire life. Subaru owners in Glendale and Ladue should refer to the tire information placard on the driver’s door jamb for recommended pressures.

Avoiding unnecessary idling also conserves fuel. A vehicle with a 3-liter engine can waste over 300 milliliters of fuel for every 10 minutes of idling. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, it’s best to turn off your engine to save fuel and reduce emissions, a smart strategy for drivers in Chesterfield during peak traffic hours.

Carrying excess weight increases the load on your Subaru’s engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. Removing unnecessary items, such as heavy sports gear or construction materials, can improve your gas mileage by roughly 1% for every 25 kilograms removed.

Using air conditioning sparingly is another effective way to improve MPG. On city drives through Maryland Heights or Sappington, rolling down windows can reduce fuel use compared to running the AC. On highways, using the re-circulate setting minimizes energy consumption.

For manual transmission Subaru owners, shifting gears smoothly and avoiding high RPMs helps optimize fuel use. Paying attention to the tachometer ensures you shift at the right moment to prevent wasting fuel.

Regular servicing according to Subaru’s recommended schedule is crucial for sustained fuel efficiency. Our expert technicians at Sunset Hills Subaru are ready to assist—schedule your next maintenance visit by clicking Schedule Service and Diagnostics. For genuine Subaru parts to keep your vehicle in top condition, visit our Parts Department.

Why Might Your Subaru Be Using More Gas Than Expected?

If you notice your Subaru’s fuel efficiency declining, several mechanical and operational factors could be responsible, especially in areas like Fenton, St Charles, and Oaklands.

A common culprit is the fuel system. Components such as fuel injectors can become clogged, and fuel filters may get dirty, reducing fuel delivery efficiency. This causes the engine to burn more fuel to maintain power. Having your fuel system inspected regularly at Sunset Hills Subaru helps prevent these issues.

Improper tire inflation, as mentioned earlier, also leads to increased fuel consumption. In addition, a dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, forcing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Replacing your air filter regularly is a simple yet effective way to maintain MPG.

Extra weight in the vehicle and poor driving habits like aggressive acceleration or excessive idling also contribute to lower fuel economy. Residents in Webster Groves and Concord may find that adjusting these habits restores their Subaru’s fuel efficiency.

If you’re unsure about the cause of poor gas mileage, our service experts can perform a diagnostic check to identify and resolve issues. Contact us at (314) 476-9638 or use our online service scheduler.

Top Subaru Models for Fuel Economy

For drivers in Chesterfield, Fenton, and Maplewood looking to maximize fuel savings, choosing the right Subaru model makes a big difference.

The 2022 Subaru Impreza leads the lineup in fuel efficiency with up to 36 mpg on highways and 28 mpg in the city. Its compact size and efficient powertrain make it ideal for daily commuting in urban settings like Ladue or Richmond Heights.

SUV enthusiasts will appreciate the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek, which delivers up to 34 highway mpg. This model balances rugged capability with impressive fuel economy, perfect for drivers near Maryland Heights who want versatility without sacrificing efficiency.

The Subaru Outback and Forester also provide competitive fuel economy figures while offering spacious interiors and AWD capability—great for families in Webster Groves and Oakland.

Explore our full selection with the New Subaru Inventory or browse pre-owned options at our Used Vehicle Inventory for even more fuel-efficient choices.

Modifying Your Subaru to Enhance Gas Mileage

Subaru owners eager to boost fuel efficiency beyond standard maintenance and driving habits can consider several aftermarket modifications, suitable for those in Creve Coeur and Webster Groves.

One effective upgrade is installing an aftermarket air intake system. These systems enhance airflow to the engine, improving combustion efficiency and potentially increasing gas mileage by up to 5%. Installation is relatively straightforward and affordable, making it a popular choice.

Upgrading to a performance exhaust system reduces backpressure, allowing the engine to expel exhaust gases more efficiently. This can lead to modest fuel economy gains and a boost in horsepower, though installation costs and potential noise restrictions should be considered.

Replacing stock fuel injectors with high-performance models can enhance fuel delivery precision, improving combustion and efficiency. However, this may require professional tuning and comes with higher upfront costs.

Performance chips that optimize engine control unit settings can sometimes increase gas mileage by up to 20%. These chips adjust air/fuel ratios and ignition timing but may void warranties or require expert installation.

Aerodynamic enhancements such as spoilers and side skirts reduce drag, which can improve highway MPG. For Subaru drivers in Valley Park and Twin Oaks, these modifications can be especially beneficial during long highway commutes.

Low rolling resistance tires minimize friction between tire and road, improving fuel economy by up to 3%. Selecting tires designed for fuel efficiency is a practical modification available through our dealership.

For those interested in exploring these options, Sunset Hills Subaru offers expert advice and genuine Subaru accessories to help you upgrade safely and effectively.

Using Subaru’s Eco Mode to Maximize Fuel Savings

Many Subaru models available near Sappington and Lakeshire come equipped with an Eco Mode feature designed to help drivers reduce fuel consumption effortlessly.

Eco Mode adjusts throttle sensitivity to encourage smoother, less aggressive acceleration. It also modifies climate control settings to reduce engine load from air conditioning and heating systems. This mode is ideal for city driving or relaxed highway cruising, where maximizing MPG is a priority.

Switching to Eco Mode is simple via the driving mode selector on your dashboard. For more active driving scenarios, Sport or Normal modes may be preferable, but Eco Mode offers a balanced approach to fuel savings without compromising comfort.

Incorporating Eco Mode into your daily routine, combined with the efficient driving techniques outlined earlier, can yield measurable improvements in fuel economy, especially in stop-and-go traffic common around Crestwood and Glendale.

Empower Your Subaru Experience in Sunset Hills and Beyond

Maximizing your Subaru’s fuel efficiency involves a combination of smart driving habits, regular maintenance, understanding your vehicle’s advanced technologies, and considering modifications tailored to your needs. Whether you’re exploring our New Subaru Inventory, browsing certified pre-owned options in our Used Vehicle Inventory, or scheduling routine maintenance at our convenient location in Sunset Hills, MO, we’re here to help you get the most out of every mile.

To keep your Subaru performing at its best, don’t hesitate to Schedule Service and Diagnostics. If you’re considering trading in your current vehicle to upgrade to a more fuel-efficient model, use our Get your value trade tool to find out its worth.

For genuine Subaru parts and accessories to maintain or upgrade your vehicle, visit our Find Subaru Parts page. Check out our latest offers on vehicles and services through our Current New Car Specials and Current Service and Parts Specials.

For specific model inventories, explore our selections of the BRZ, Legacy, WRX, Solterra, Impreza, Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, and Ascent.

Contact Sunset Hills Subaru today at (314) 476-9638 to start your journey toward better fuel efficiency and a more enjoyable driving experience in the St Louis metro area.

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