Outback XT vs 2.5i Fuel Economy

Well the 2.5XT is going to be also drinking premium fuel. If you are concerned I would suggest going with the 2.5i instead. I believe the purchase price will be cheaper and the fact that you can run regular fuel will save you money as well as the fuel savings over driving a turbo. I am sure the 2.5 XT will be a lot of fun but if you are just using it for a grocery getter I would stick with the non turbo model.

The last time I calculated the cost difference it was $2.93 per week. That is for me and the miles I drive. I compared a Forester XS vs. an XT. Considering a pack of smokes or 3 cans of soda ( $3 ) is what I needed to give up to maintain my budget. Your choice, so pick the one you'll be happier with.

I have an XT Forester (2005 USA) and love having the power available when I need it. It's great to be able to pass on long, steep uphill grades traveling through the mountain passes and not be logged back behind the slow cars or trucks. I live in the desert SW and travel into the Sierras frequently. The problem is, I push the turbo more often than is needed, and the mileage suffers, especially with the price of gas, but for the couple of dollars a week extra it costs, it's worth it to have a fun car to drive (especially one that doesn't look like it's as fast as it is ;-)