We had a 1983 Subaru hatchback that we purchased for $1,000 cash in the early 90's. It finally died with 185,000 miles on it but was safe and had all wheel drive.

Fast forward to 2007, gas prices are about double and my commute is doubled too. I had a 2002 Isuzu Axiom XS that got me 17 mpg on the highway when driving on my best behavior which isn't often. I am an assertive driver and when you drive as much as I do it should be fun and safe.
I searched for a sporty vehicle that has a good mpg rating and I found it. The Subaru Outback 3.0R Eddie
Bauer version sedan.

Switching body styles from crossover (yes, the Axiom was actually one of the earlier crossovers but poorly marketed and a great vehicle) to sedan actually increased my fuel efficiency because it sheds all of the excess weight. I still have 4 doors and the leather interior and the 6-cylinder engine but now I was lighter and almost twice as fuel efficient. On my best behavior I can get 28 miles per gallon which is a big savings at $3.19/gallon for 93 octane which is recommended by Subaru for best engine performance.

Engine/Powertrain- The 3.0R uses a flat-six or boxer style which means the cylinders are opposite each other not on an angle like the v-6 most are used to. This gives the engine a lower profile and better balance. The better balance means quicker throttle response and faster acceleration which I love (so does my wife) all while getting an average of 24.3 MPG as an average over 16,375 miles so far. This model is matted to a sport shifting automatic transmission. Drive it like a normal automatic or select sport mode for quicker up and downshifts...or shift it like a manual, your choice and they are all fun.

Heated seats, Leather interior, power seats, windows & Locks, Sunroof/Moonroof, A/C, power steering, power ventillated disk brakes, all-wheel drive, alarm system.




Amount Paid (US$): 32,500
Condition: New
Model Year: 2007
Model and Options: Eddie Bauer version, only option is navigation