The 2020 Volvo S90 AWD, equipped with the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG. This figure isn’t class-leading, but represents a calculated choice for buyers who want Scandinavian design, luxurious comfort, and confident all-weather performance more than ultimate efficiency. This car is for professionals and families who value a refined driving experience more than saving every last mile per gallon. They likely see the S90’s fuel consumption as the price to pay for Volvo’s understated luxury.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S90 AWD at 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of frequent stops and starts on the engine, which relies on both turbocharging and supercharging to deliver its power. The highway number, close to 30 MPG, is better for long commutes or road trips, where the car can settle into a more fuel-efficient cruising speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps by keeping the engine in its best range for both power delivery and fuel conservation at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the 2020 Volvo S90 AWD’s annual fuel cost at $2,300. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Remember that this figure will change depending on your actual driving, the type of fuel you use, and regional gasoline prices. Someone who drives mostly in stop-and-go city traffic will probably spend more, while someone who mainly drives on the highway may find their actual fuel costs are lower.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates give a standardized point of comparison, but real-world fuel economy can vary quite a bit. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can all affect your MPG. Expect to see numbers within a few MPG of the EPA estimates, but don’t be surprised if you sometimes get less, especially in heavy traffic or with aggressive driving. Gentle acceleration, consistent speeds, and regular maintenance are important for getting the best possible fuel economy in your S90.

How it compares

In the mid-size luxury sedan group, the 2020 Volvo S90 AWD’s fuel economy is in the middle. The BMW 530i xDrive, for example, gets an EPA-estimated 26 MPG combined, giving it a slight edge. The Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC is similar, delivering around 25 MPG combined. Volvo stands out with the plug-in hybrid versions of the S90, which offer much better overall fuel economy for those with shorter commutes who can easily recharge their vehicles. S90 buyers should review S90 MPG across all years to see how models and trims compare and research all Volvo fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the easiest ways to get better fuel economy in your S90 is to drive more smoothly. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, which use extra energy.

Anticipate traffic and keep a consistent speed when you can. Regular maintenance, like oil changes, air filter replacements, and proper tire inflation, can also help fuel economy. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, and correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.

Consider using the car’s “Eco” mode, if it has one. This mode changes how the throttle responds and when the transmission shifts to focus on fuel efficiency instead of performance. It might make the car feel a little less responsive, but it can make a real difference in your MPG, especially when driving in the city.

Keep idling time to a minimum. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are made to restart quickly, and idling wastes gas unnecessarily.