With a combined fuel economy rating of 24 MPG, the 2022 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD isn’t trying to win any hypermiling competitions. But for a stylish, comfortable, all-weather luxury SUV aimed at suburban families, it strikes a reasonable balance between performance, capability, and efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle bought primarily for its frugality; it’s chosen for its understated Scandinavian design, reputation for safety, and a driving experience that prioritizes quietness over outright sportiness.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD are 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the efficiency of the 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder engine in stop-and-go traffic, where its mild-hybrid system provides a small electrical boost to help with smooth starts and reduce fuel consumption. On the highway, the 28 MPG rating is achievable with steady cruising, but aggressive acceleration or high speeds will quickly diminish that figure. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, contributing to overall fuel conservation.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2022 Volvo XC60 B5 AWD. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your individual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of city versus highway driving you do. Consider this number a useful point of comparison when evaluating other vehicles, but remember it’s an average, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing methodology, real-world fuel economy often differs. XC60 B5 owners report figures that fluctuate around the EPA estimates. Drivers who spend most of their time in congested urban environments may see MPG numbers closer to 20 or 21, while those with primarily highway commutes may achieve closer to 30 MPG during longer trips. Driving style is a significant factor; aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will inevitably lead to lower fuel economy. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and timely oil changes, is critical to maintaining optimal efficiency. You can also view XC60 MPG across all years.

How it compares

The XC60 B5’s fuel economy lands it in the middle of its competitive set. The Acura RDX, for example, with its 2.0-liter turbo engine and AWD, achieves a slightly lower 22 MPG combined. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, another popular choice, also hovers around 24-25 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 350, while offering a hybrid version for substantially better economy, sees around 25 MPG combined with its gasoline-only engine. For potential Volvo buyers, these numbers matter. They’re looking for a reasonable compromise that doesn’t sacrifice luxury, safety, and all-weather capability. The availability of a plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge model satisfies buyers looking for more efficiency without sacrificing the core XC60 experience. Find all Volvo fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the XC60’s “Eco” drive mode. This mode optimizes engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency, often resulting in a slightly more relaxed driving experience. While it might not be ideal for sporty driving, it’s perfect for everyday commuting when you want to prioritize lower fuel costs.

Pay attention to your driving habits. Smooth acceleration and gentle braking are key to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid hard acceleration and unnecessary braking, and maintain a consistent speed on the highway. Anticipate traffic flow and plan your routes to minimize stop-and-go driving, where fuel consumption is typically higher.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can significantly impact fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Even a small increase in tire pressure can make a difference.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area. The less weight the engine has to move, the more efficient it will be. Seasonal items like snow tires when they aren’t needed, or sports equipment that isn’t used regularly, can all contribute to reduced fuel economy.