The 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge achieves 25 MPG combined, which might surprise some in the compact luxury SUV segment. But understanding the XC60 T8 Recharge requires looking beyond initial numbers. It’s a plug-in hybrid designed to deliver a unique blend of performance and luxury, with a commitment to reducing its impact on the environment. These appeal to buyers and often justify the fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the XC60 T8 Recharge at 24 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect how the vehicle’s hybrid powertrain works. In urban environments, the electric motor becomes the main power source, potentially saving a lot of fuel during shorter trips and stop-and-go traffic. The highway figure, while slightly higher, shows how efficient the 2.0L 4-cylinder engine is when cruising, with help from the electric motor when accelerating or when more power is needed. The key to maximizing efficiency is to use the electric range for daily commutes and shorter errands, reducing how much gasoline you use.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Recognize that this is an estimate. Your actual fuel expenses will change depending on your driving habits, the amount you drive using electric power versus gasoline, and local fuel prices. Drivers who regularly charge the battery and drive using electric power will likely see much lower annual fuel costs than those who mainly use the gasoline engine.

Real-world expectations

The XC60 T8 Recharge’s fuel economy is heavily dependent on how you use it. Owners who regularly plug in the vehicle will see the most benefit, potentially getting much better than the combined 25 MPG in their daily driving. They’ll be able to do short errands and commutes on electric power alone, greatly reducing how much gasoline they use. However, drivers who rarely plug in or often take long highway trips will likely see fuel economy closer to the EPA’s gasoline-only estimates. The powertrain rewards driving habits that use its electric features.

How it compares

The XC60 T8’s fuel economy has a lot of competition among luxury SUVs. The non-hybrid BMW X3 xDrive30i gets a combined 25 MPG, matching the Volvo, but without electric-only range. The Lexus NX 350h, a hybrid, gets a better 39 MPG combined, showing the fuel-saving potential of a different hybrid system. The Audi Q5 e plug-in hybrid manages 26 MPG combined with a similar electric range. These numbers are critical when evaluating XC60 MPG across all years. Buyers considering the XC60 T8 Recharge should weigh electric driving range, performance, and overall luxury against the fuel economy its rivals offer. The best choice depends on what’s important to each buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Make full use of the XC60 T8 Recharge’s drive modes. Select “Pure” mode for short, low-speed trips to maximize electric-only driving. This mode prioritizes electric power and minimizes gasoline engine use, extending your electric range and reducing fuel consumption.

Consistent charging is important to getting the benefits of a plug-in hybrid. Develop a charging routine, plugging in whenever you can—at home overnight, at work, or at public charging stations. A regularly charged battery is the key to reaching the XC60 T8’s full fuel-saving potential.

Drive smoothly and accelerate gently. Aggressive driving habits, like sudden acceleration and hard braking, use more battery and gasoline. Predicting traffic and keeping a steady speed helps optimize fuel efficiency, whether you’re using electric power or gasoline.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level, which is usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. This simple step can make a difference.

Minimize weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area. Reducing weight can help improve fuel efficiency, especially when accelerating or climbing hills.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 T8 AWD Recharge balances performance, luxury, and the promise of reduced emissions, in exchange for some fuel consumption. While not the most fuel-efficient luxury SUV, its electric power features offer a way to save fuel for the right owner. You can check all Volvo fuel economy data to see how it compares to other models from the brand.