Surprisingly, pre-02 brochures list the mileage for the 2.5 RS as almost the same as the 2.2 Imprezas. But the new 02 2.5 models list a couple miles worse mileage than previous 2.5s.

Was the mileage given in past years incorrect, or is the new model less efficient?

I'd like a new Subaru, but high mileage is a priority--last year's 2.2 and 2.5 models were acceptable, but if the numbers don't lie, this year's 2.5 is getting into a realm I want to avoid.

Any comments, or 02 vs. previous comparisons? I did note in a thread below that it is possible to beat the listed mileage estimate, so Subaru is not out of the running for my next car yet.

Thanks1

OK, first of all those are estimates. Secondly, the rating dropped by one steenkin' MPG for city and hwy each. Woohoo! And third, the new Impreza is heavier so a slight loss in economy isn't surprising.

and on top of all that, the GC8's (last gen Impreza) estimated fuel efficiency seems a bit optimistic anyway. I, in my 5 months of driving my 01 RS over 12,000 miles, have never got the advertised 29mpg highway rating...maybe 26mpg at best(likely 23-25mpg) and no I don't rev it like a madman with a death wish.

I keep very detailed records of my gas mileage, and although I have only 2600 miles on the car, I have yet to average over 26 mpg. I am consitantly averaging 25 mpg. No complaints though. I still love my baby.

/Eric

When my '00 RS was new, I got about 20. It slowly crept up to a peak of around 24 when I drove EXTREMELY conservatively (80% highway). It's settled down to around 22.3 mpg on every fillup now.