The 2019 Volvo XC40 AWD, with its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy of 26 MPG. This isn’t going to set any fuel-sipping records, but it’s a reasonable tradeoff if you want safety, Scandinavian design, and all-wheel-drive capability in a compact luxury SUV. It’s a stylish and secure family vehicle designed for colder climates and city driving, not a hybrid or an economy car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Volvo XC40 AWD will get 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the typical stop-and-go driving that many XC40 owners experience every day. The turbocharged engine provides plenty of low-end torque, giving confident acceleration from a stop, but that responsiveness comes with a slight decrease in fuel economy. The 31 MPG highway figure is better, suggesting longer road trips are possible without using too much gas. Keep in mind that this number is possible at steady speeds. Driving fast or overtaking frequently will lower that number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Volvo XC40 AWD is $2,250. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your costs may be different depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. The XC40 doesn’t require premium fuel, but using it might give slightly better performance and even a small improvement in fuel economy, although it’s questionable if that improvement makes up for the higher price. Because this model year is now older than its manufacturer’s predicted lifespan, drivers should also consider the possible maintenance costs of owning an older vehicle.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy is sometimes different. Many XC40 owners say they get slightly lower numbers than the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving. Things like traffic, driving style, and even tire pressure can change how much fuel you use. Accelerating quickly and braking often will lower MPG a lot, while driving more calmly will get you closer to the EPA numbers. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is important for keeping good fuel efficiency. Because it’s an older vehicle, keeping an eye on the engine’s health is key to maintaining efficient driving.

How it compares

The 2019 Volvo XC40 AWD’s fuel economy is about average compared to other compact luxury SUVs. For example, the 2019 BMW X1 xDrive28i gets a slightly better 26 MPG combined, with 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. However, the 2019 Audi Q3 Quattro gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined with its 2.0L engine. Buyers often pick the XC40 because of its unique design and safety features, accepting that it may use slightly more fuel than some competitors. Consumers can also see XC40 MPG across all years to compare the 2019 model to newer versions. Comparing all Volvo fuel economy data gives buyers a detailed look at the brand’s commitment to fuel efficiency across all its vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the XC40’s ECO drive mode. This mode changes the engine and transmission settings to save fuel. It might make the throttle a little less responsive, but it can make a difference over time, especially when driving in the city. Try it on a test loop during your commute.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Tires that don’t have enough air increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. The recommended tire pressure for the XC40 is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Checking it once a month can save you a noticeable amount of fuel.

Avoid idling too much. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when they are running. Idling for a long time uses fuel without going anywhere. If you think you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Plan your routes to avoid traffic. Stop-and-go traffic wastes a lot of fuel. Using navigation apps to find and avoid traffic can save you time and fuel. Try changing your commute time by even 15 minutes to avoid the busiest times.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Keeping a constant speed helps to improve fuel efficiency. Avoid accelerating or braking suddenly, as these actions use more fuel. Use cruise control carefully, as managing the throttle yourself can provide better fuel economy when there is traffic.