I'm looking at the CX-5, Forester, and to a lesser extent the Escape, CR-V and Rav 4. My choices would be between the CX-5 and Forester, but I'd like to know what bothers you about the CX-5 (is it the horsepower?). The Forester is a solid choice, but the base engine (non-XT) is less HP than the CX-5, and I've heard very bad things about their NAV system (the same in the BRZ). As well, some reviewers mention that the Forester, which rides higher than typical crossover, can feel more "boat-like" on highways.
With that said, the XT is a compelling choice. But FYI, you won't get close to the EPA fuel economy. Nowhere close. I have a Mazdaspeed 3 (approx 265 HP with a turbo), and once you get on the boost your fuel economy goes in the dumps. The EPA testing does not really spool that turbo, so in real world driving the turbo is always spooling and sucking up your gas. I'm lucky to get 23-24 mpg in mixed driving (mostly highway, actually). But if that doesn't bother you, then the XT is indeed a compelling choice. It's just soooo expensive if you load it up with options!