I have an '11 Edge SEL, we also have an '09 Forester mid-level (not the XT) in the household that belongs to my father-in-law, in my opinion you can't compare the two. The Edge is far and away the better vehicle in terms of comfort, features, mpg, and refinement. I'm sure the XT is a much better offering with the turbo and upgraded features - but this one is noisy, feels tinny, the handling is less than impressive, and the seating position can be better. The Subaru is very quick off the line but has very little top end. Both cars are very stylish but I feel the Edge is the clear winner.