Subaru XT 4WD
20.8 MPG The 1991 Subaru XT 4WD is EPA-rated at 20.8 MPG combined (18.3 city / 24.8 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 721 gallons, $2308 a year in fuel, or $0.154 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 1985–1991 run it averages 20.8 MPG, improving by 0.8 MPG over 7 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.120 | $1202 | $1803 | $2404 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.144 | $1442 | $2163 | $2885 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.154 | $1538 | $2308 | $3077 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.168 | $1683 | $2524 | $3365 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.192 | $1923 | $2885 | $3846 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.216 | $2163 | $3245 | $4327 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.240 | $2404 | $3606 | $4808 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | 20.8 MPG | 18.3 | 24.8 | $3038 | 431 | 4 |
| 1990 | 20.8 MPG | 18.3 | 24.8 | $3038 | 431 | 4 |
| 1989 | 20.8 MPG | 18.3 | 24.5 | $3038 | 431 | 4 |
| 1988 | 20.3 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3100 | 441 | 3 |
| 1987 | 21.6 MPG | 19.8 | 24.4 | $2890 | 412 | 5 |
| 1986 | 21 MPG | 20 | 23.5 | $2975 | 424 | 2 |
| 1985 | 20 MPG | 19 | 22 | $3100 | 444 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 229 subcompact cars models tracked here, the Subaru XT 4WD ranks 150 on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: BMW 135i Convertible (21), Chrysler LeBaron Convertible (21), Ford Mustang (21), Infiniti G37 Coupe (21), Infiniti Q60 Red Sport AWD (21).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 431 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.5 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Subaru XT 4WD get?
The 1991 Subaru XT 4WD is rated at 20.8 MPG combined by the EPA — 18.3 city and 24.8 highway. Across all 7 model years in the database it averages 20.8 MPG, ranging from 19 to 23 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Subaru XT 4WD cost in fuel per year?
At 20.8 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 721 gallons — roughly $2308 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.154 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 1991 model is $3038.
Has the Subaru XT 4WD become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 20 MPG in 1985 to 20.8 in 1991 — an improvement of 0.8 MPG, or 4% across 7 model years.
Is the Subaru XT 4WD efficient for its class?
It ranks 150 of 229 in the Subcompact Cars class on current figures, against a class average of 24.2 MPG. That is 3.4 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.