The 2022 Volvo XC60 B6 AWD gets 24 MPG combined. This isn’t an attention-grabbing number, but a true picture of the costs of owning a stylish, comfortable, and capable compact luxury SUV. The XC60 B6 isn’t trying to be a Prius; it’s made for buyers who value safety, Scandinavian design, and a touch of performance over pure fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the XC60 B6 achieves 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the demands on a 4,200-pound SUV in stop-and-go traffic and at consistent highway speeds. The city MPG shows how the XC60’s weight and all-wheel-drive impact fuel use at lower speeds. The highway MPG is more respectable. The smooth 8-speed automatic transmission helps manage engine speed to save gas at cruising speed. If you live in a suburb or city, expect to average 21 MPG, which is typical for this type of vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Volvo XC60 B6 AWD is $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and on the national average fuel price when the EPA tested it. This is a good way to compare the running costs of different vehicles. Note that your actual costs will change depending on your driving, local gas prices, and the fuel grade you use.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world gas mileage can change. Hard acceleration, frequent short trips, and driving in the mountains can hurt fuel economy. But gentle driving, consistent highway speeds, and good car care can help you match, or even beat, the EPA numbers. Many owners report around 23 MPG in mixed driving, close to the official combined rating. Also, frequent use of the XC60’s drive mode selector, especially the “Comfort” or “Eco” modes, can help save fuel in everyday driving.

How it compares

The XC60 isn’t the most fuel-efficient, but it’s competitive in its class. The Acura RDX, for example, gets 22 MPG combined with its standard turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. The BMW X3 xDrive30i, another popular choice, also gets 24 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 350h hybrid gets significantly higher mileage at 39 MPG combined. Comparing these to all Volvo fuel economy data shows the XC60 B6 favors performance and standard all-wheel drive over top-tier fuel economy. Drivers may trade a few miles per gallon for the confidence of AWD, especially in bad weather. The Recharge plug-in hybrid model also confirms this. Volvo knows this buyer wants to be efficient, but only to a point.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Make sure your tires have enough air. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the sticker inside your driver’s side door.

Avoid aggressive driving. Quick acceleration and hard braking use much more fuel than smooth, slow driving. Watch traffic and keep a steady speed. Use cruise control on the highway to keep a constant speed and save fuel.

Don’t idle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines start quickly and easily, and idling uses fuel without moving. The XC60 B6’s automatic stop/start helps with this, but be ready for it to activate.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in your car hurts fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need to lower the weight and improve efficiency, such as golf clubs you only use once a week.

Regular maintenance is important. A well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. Consult XC60 MPG across all years and you’ll see that upkeep makes sure the car sticks to its original EPA ratings.