Davis Bellew If you are in the market for a crossover SUV and fuel efficiency is a top priority, the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is certainly worth considering. This vehicle has been a popular choice for individuals who are looking for a combination of capability, space, and fuel economy. In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about the 2016 Subaru Crosstrek’s fuel economy and what factors can affect it.
How Fuel Economy is Measured
Before we dive into the specifics of the 2016 Crosstrek’s fuel economy, let’s take a quick look at how fuel efficiency is measured. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is responsible for testing and rating the fuel economy of all new vehicles sold in the United States. The EPA test simulates an average commute that includes both highway and city driving. The resulting numbers give us an estimate of how many miles per gallon (MPG) the vehicle gets while driving under these specific conditions.
It is important to keep in mind that your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions. If you frequently drive on highways or in heavy traffic, your fuel economy will likely be different from the EPA estimates.
2016 Subaru Crosstrek Fuel Economy
The 2016 Crosstrek has impressive fuel economy ratings for a crossover SUV. According to the EPA estimates, the vehicle gets an average of 26 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and 29 MPG combined. These ratings apply to the standard model that comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and all-wheel-drive.
It is worth noting that the Crosstrek also has an available hybrid model that gets even better fuel economy. The hybrid model has an EPA rating of 30 MPG in the city, 34 MPG on the highway, and 31 MPG combined.
Crosstrek Fuel Efficiency Compared to Competitors
When looking at the Crosstrek’s fuel economy ratings, it is important to compare them to other vehicles in the same class. The Crosstrek competes with other small crossover SUVs like the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, and Jeep Renegade. Compared to these vehicles, the Crosstrek frequently ranks at or near the top for fuel economy.
For example, the 2016 Mazda CX-3 gets an average of 29 MPG combined, which is slightly lower than the Crosstrek’s 29 MPG. The 2016 Honda HR-V gets an average of 29 MPG combined as well, but only when equipped with front-wheel drive. With all-wheel drive, the HR-V’s fuel economy drops to 28 MPG.
Factors That Affect Fuel Economy
It is important to remember that the EPA fuel economy ratings are estimates based on specific driving conditions. Your actual fuel economy may vary depending on several factors, including:
- Driving habits: Aggressive driving, speeding, and rapid acceleration can all lower fuel economy.
- Weather conditions: Cold temperatures and strong winds can reduce fuel efficiency.
- Vehicle maintenance: Proper maintenance, such as regular oil changes and tire rotations, can help improve fuel efficiency.
- Cargo and passengers: Carrying heavy cargo or passengers can make the vehicle work harder, lowering fuel efficiency.
FAQs
Q: Can I improve my Crosstrek’s fuel economy?
A: Yes, there are several ways to improve your vehicle’s fuel economy. These include driving more efficiently by avoiding rapid acceleration and heavy braking, maintaining proper tire pressure, and removing unnecessary cargo from your vehicle.
Q: Are the Crosstrek’s fuel economy ratings accurate?
A: The EPA tests are designed to simulate a typical commute, but your individual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions. However, the EPA ratings are a good starting point for estimating your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.
Q: How does the Crosstrek Hybrid compare to the standard model?
A: The Crosstrek Hybrid gets better fuel economy than the standard model, with an EPA rating of 31 MPG combined. However, the hybrid model also has a higher price tag and may not be worth the extra cost for everyone.
Conclusion
The 2016 Subaru Crosstrek is a great choice for individuals who want a crossover SUV that is both capable and fuel-efficient. With its impressive EPA ratings and competitive fuel efficiency compared to its competitors, it is easy to see why the Crosstrek is such a popular choice. Remember that factors such as driving habits and weather conditions can affect fuel economy, so your actual mileage may vary from the official estimates.
