2025 Subaru Forester vs Crosstrek: Real Fuel Economy Costs for Ontario Drivers
May 29 2025,
Fuel efficiency directly impacts your monthly budget, making it a crucial factor when choosing between the 2025 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek. Both vehicles offer impressive economy ratings, but understanding the actual dollar differences helps you make an informed decision based on your driving habits and financial priorities.
With Ontario's current average gas price at $1.30 per litre and typical annual driving distances of 20,000 kilometres, we've calculated the real-world fuel costs for both models. The analysis uses Natural Resources Canada's standard driving split of 55% city and 45% highway conditions, giving you accurate projections for everyday Ontario driving.
Fuel Economy Specifications Breakdown
The 2025 Subaru Forester delivers 9.1 L/100km in city driving and 7.2 L/100km on the highway with its 2.5L BOXER engine. The Crosstrek offers two engine options: the 2.0L BOXER achieves 8.8 L/100km city and 7.1 L/100km highway, while the 2.5L variant (available on Onyx, Limited, and Wilderness trims) consumes 8.9 L/100km city and 7.2 L/100km highway.
Using the NRCAN formula of 55% city and 45% highway driving, the combined fuel consumption calculations reveal distinct differences. The Crosstrek's 2.0L engine achieves the best overall efficiency, while the Forester and Crosstrek's 2.5L engines deliver nearly identical performance.
Annual Fuel Cost Analysis
|
Vehicle |
Engine |
Combined L/100km |
Annual Litres |
Annual Cost |
Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
2025 Crosstrek |
2.0L |
8.32 |
1,664 |
$2,163 |
$180 |
|
2025 Crosstrek |
2.5L |
8.36 |
1,672 |
$2,174 |
$181 |
|
2025 Forester |
2.5L |
8.36 |
1,672 |
$2,174 |
$181 |
The annual fuel cost difference between the most efficient Crosstrek 2.0L and both 2.5L options amounts to just $11 per year or less than $1 monthly. This minimal difference means your engine choice can focus on performance preferences rather than fuel economy concerns.
For context, the Crosstrek 2.0L saves approximately 8 litres annually compared to the 2.5L options. Over a typical five-year ownership period, this translates to total savings of $55—equivalent to about one tank of gas.
Real-World Driving Considerations
Your actual fuel consumption varies based on driving patterns, vehicle maintenance, and seasonal conditions. The Crosstrek's lighter weight gives it a slight advantage in stop-and-go city traffic, while both vehicles perform similarly during highway cruising.
Cold Ontario winters can increase fuel consumption by 10-15% for all vehicles as engines work harder to warm up and maintain cabin comfort. The 2.5L engines in both vehicles provide better cold-weather performance and cabin heating, potentially offsetting some of their marginal fuel economy disadvantage during winter months.
Cargo loading and roof accessories also affect fuel economy. The Forester's larger cargo capacity might encourage heavier loading, while the Crosstrek's standard roof rails invite accessory installation—both factors that can impact real-world consumption beyond the official ratings.
Long-Term Ownership Value
|
Ownership Period |
Crosstrek 2.0L |
Crosstrek/Forester 2.5L |
Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
|
1 Year |
$2,163 |
$2,174 |
$11 |
|
3 Years |
$6,489 |
$6,522 |
$33 |
|
5 Years |
$10,815 |
$10,870 |
$55 |
The long-term fuel cost differences remain modest across typical ownership periods. Over five years of driving 20,000 kilometres annually, the most efficient Crosstrek saves $55 compared to the 2.5L options—a difference that represents roughly 0.5% of total fuel costs.
These minimal savings suggest that other factors like cargo needs, performance preferences, and available features should weigh more heavily in your decision than pure fuel economy numbers.
Your Budget-Conscious Choice Awaits
Both the 2025 Subaru Forester and Crosstrek deliver excellent fuel efficiency with minimal cost differences for Ontario drivers. The Crosstrek's 2.0L engine offers the best economy at $180 monthly, while the 2.5L options in both vehicles cost just $1 more per month at $181.
Your choice between these fuel-efficient Subarus can focus on the features and capabilities that matter most to your lifestyle. Visit Subaru of Maple to experience both vehicles and discover which model fits your driving needs while keeping fuel costs predictable and affordable.
