Is the (94?) XFi the highest mpg metro? If so, why? What is different about it?

The XFi was made to get the best around town fuel economy. They don't hold their speed well on the freeway though. They're stripped down, cheapest interior, least features, and 47hp. I believe it's from a different cam timing, and different program in the ECU. But I've heard numbers over 50mpg with them for city driving. I don't think they were available in an automatic.

Correct, only available in a manual transmission. No options except for a passenger side rear view mirror, floor mats, and body side moldings. Black upper and lower front and rear bumper fascias. Don't quote me on this one but I believe the XFi also had a different piston bore as well, which also contributed to the superior mileage. Not worth the tradeoff if you as me, I average about 40-45 in the city anyway, and around 50 on the highway.

I got an XFi. When it had the 3 cylinder I loved it. I got 48 MPG on the highway with a 350 small block in the back.

Thanks for the input guys. I'm on board with you westsidex. A few more options are worth it.