What is the fuel consumption of the Subaru XT Turbo?
The Subaru XT Turbo typically achieves fuel economy in the low-to-mid 20s miles per gallon (mpg) in combined driving, with higher efficiency on highways and lower numbers in city conditions. Exact figures depend on the model year, transmission, and how the car is driven and maintained.
Overview of the XT Turbo and its efficiency
The XT Turbo, produced from 1985 to 1991, paired a turbocharged 1.8-liter flat-four engine with either a manual or automatic transmission. While the turbocharged setup delivered spirited performance for its era, fuel economy tended to lag behind non-turbo competitors. Across years, owners and historical data place the XT Turbo in a consistent mpg band, with highway use offering the best efficiency and urban driving reducing it.
Typical fuel economy ranges
Below are the common fuel economy ranges reported for US-market XT Turbos, reflecting city, highway, and combined figures. Individual results vary by year and condition.
- City driving: roughly 18–23 mpg (US)
- Highway driving: roughly 26–32 mpg (US)
- Combined driving: roughly 22–27 mpg (US)
These ranges summarize what many owners have experienced across the late-1980s XT Turbo models, acknowledging that power use (boost) and drive style can push results outside this band.
Factors that influence fuel consumption
Several variables determine the exact mpg you’ll see from a Subaru XT Turbo:
- Engine condition and boost management (turbo calibration, intercooler efficiency)
- Transmission type (manual vs automatic) and gearing
- Driving style, including acceleration habits and highway speeds
- Tire size and pressure, which affect rolling resistance
- Vehicle weight and cargo load
- Maintenance status, including fuel system cleanliness and ignition timing
With proper maintenance and moderate driving, the XT Turbo can approach the higher end of highway fuel economy, whereas aggressive driving and boost-heavy operation tend to reduce efficiency.
Model-year and regional notes
During its production run, the XT Turbo saw minor refinements and regional differences. In general, the 1.8-liter turbo engines in North American models remained similar in efficiency, while maintenance and condition played a larger role for older specimens. For owners of well-preserved examples with good boost control and correct tire pressures, highway efficiency tends to be the strongest contributor to better mpg, with city use the main limiter.
Summary
The Subaru XT Turbo is a classic, fun-to-drive turbocharged coupe whose fuel economy sits in the low-to-mid 20s mpg combined in typical use. Expect higher highway efficiency and lower city numbers, with the exact figures depending on year, transmission, and how the car is driven and maintained.
