25 MPG combined is a perfectly acceptable figure for the 2021 Volvo V60 Cross Country AWD. It’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, but this wagon wasn’t designed for that mission. Instead, this car appeals to a specific buyer: someone who wants the practicality of a small SUV, the comfort of a luxury car, and the quirkiness of a Swedish brand that isn’t afraid to be different. A few MPG less than, say, a Lexus UX, is a worthwhile trade for that unique blend of attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers break down to 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The city figure is perhaps the more telling number. Many V60 Cross Country owners live in urban or suburban environments where they appreciate the smaller footprint of the wagon compared to a larger SUV. Stop-and-go traffic will always take its toll on fuel economy, but the V60’s relatively lightweight construction and efficient engine help mitigate the impact. On the open road, the 31 MPG figure demonstrates that this car is a comfortable and efficient long-distance cruiser, swallowing up miles with ease thanks to its supportive seats and refined ride.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Volvo V60 Cross Country AWD is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live, as fuel prices are not homogenous across the United States. It’s a useful benchmark, however, for comparing the V60 Cross Country to other vehicles and assessing how it fits into your overall budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, and driving in extreme weather conditions can all negatively impact MPG. Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can improve your fuel efficiency. Drivers reporting their own MPG numbers on various fuel economy websites generally report figures slightly below the EPA estimates on average. That is not uncommon, so expect something closer to 22-24 MPG combined in normal daily driving.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the V60 Cross Country’s fuel economy is fairly typical. The Audi A4 allroad, another popular luxury wagon with standard all-wheel drive, achieves an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. The BMW 330i xDrive wagon, although not officially sold as a “Cross Country” variant, delivers around 28 MPG combined. The Subaru Outback, a non-luxury competitor that offers similar all-weather capability, boasts a more impressive 29 MPG combined with its naturally aspirated engine (although the turbocharged version gets considerably less). Ultimately, the V60 Cross Country buyer is likely prioritizing other factors, design, brand image, interior quality, over outright fuel economy. For all Volvo fuel economy data, be sure to explore our other pages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The V60 Cross Country’s 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and eight-speed automatic transmission are designed for efficiency, but there are still ways to maximize your mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits can significantly reduce fuel economy. The car’s engine is responsive and has peak torque accessible at low engine speeds, use this to your advantage.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, as this simple maintenance task can make a noticeable difference. This is especially important for those who routinely drive the V60 on unpaved or gravely surfaces, as this is a typical use case for the Cross Country.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack will also decrease fuel efficiency. Remove any items that you don’t need, especially heavy objects. Empty the ski rack at the end of ski season.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to optimize fuel consumption. However, be mindful of hills and avoid using cruise control in stop-and-go traffic. Consider also the car’s drive modes. “Eco” mode can help calibrate the throttle response to be more gentle off the line, making a notable difference in city driving.

Keep your car properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements can all contribute to better fuel economy. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel. If you’re interested in the V60 MPG across all years of production, we have additional information on our pages.