26 MPG combined is respectable for the 2019 Volvo XC60 AWD PHEV, but consider the context. This isn’t a stripped-down economy car; it’s a luxurious, all-wheel-drive, plug-in hybrid SUV designed for a specific type of buyer: someone who prioritizes Scandinavian design, advanced safety features, and the flexibility of electric driving for shorter trips. They are prepared to accept slightly less-than-stellar overall fuel economy to experience these benefits.

City and highway performance

The 2019 XC60 PHEV’s EPA estimates break down to 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the benefit of the electric motor, which can power the vehicle for significant distances on battery power alone, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

The highway MPG is more representative of the 2.0L turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine doing the bulk of the work. Drivers who frequently undertake longer journeys will likely see fuel economy closer to the highway figure, while urban dwellers with consistent charging habits will capitalize on the electric range and significantly improve their real-world numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Volvo XC60 AWD PHEV at $2,250. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes the national average fuel price. Remember that this is an estimate.

Your actual fuel expenses will change depending on driving habits, local fuel costs, and how often you use the electric driving mode. Regular charging and maximizing electric-only miles can drastically reduce this annual expenditure.

Real-world expectations

The stated EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the XC60 PHEV depends on charging habits and driving style. Those who diligently plug in and primarily drive short distances in electric mode can easily surpass the EPA combined MPG rating, potentially even eliminating gasoline use during commutes. Conversely, drivers who rarely charge the battery and rely mainly on the gasoline engine will likely see fuel economy closer to or even slightly below the EPA’s estimate.

Aggressive driving will also negatively affect fuel efficiency, regardless of the powertrain setup. Therefore, individual results can vary widely, making it essential to understand how your driving patterns align with the vehicle’s capabilities. You can find XC60 MPG across all years to compare.

How it compares

In the competitive field of luxury plug-in hybrid SUVs, the 2019 XC60 PHEV’s fuel economy sits in the middle of the pack. For example, the Lexus NX 300h AWD offers a better EPA combined rating of 31 MPG, primarily due to its more efficient hybrid system and less emphasis on performance. On the other hand, the BMW X3 xDrive30e, while boasting similar electric range, offers a slightly lower combined MPG of around 24 MPG.

Buyers drawn to the Volvo prioritize a mix of luxury, safety, and some level of electric capability, understanding that they might not achieve the absolute best fuel economy in the segment. The Audi Q5 e offers similar levels of fuel economy at around 27MPG combined. When considering alternatives, you can find all Volvo fuel economy data on our website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent charging is important to maximizing fuel economy in the XC60 PHEV. Make it a habit to plug in whenever the vehicle is parked, whether at home, work, or public charging stations. Using the electric range is the key to realizing the vehicle’s full potential.

Use the vehicle’s driving modes strategically. The “Pure” mode prioritizes electric driving, while “Hybrid” mode intelligently balances electric and gasoline power. The “Power” mode favors performance, which uses more fuel, so save it for situations where you need maximum acceleration.

Gentle acceleration and braking are crucial for maximizing efficiency. Avoid aggressive starts and hard stops, as these actions consume more energy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, consistent speed to conserve fuel and regenerate energy through regenerative braking.

Proper tire inflation plays a significant role in fuel economy. Regularly check your tire pressure and ensure it matches the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel efficiency.

Minimize aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use. These accessories increase wind resistance, which can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially at highway speeds.