The 2023 Volvo S60 T8 AWD Recharge gets 31 MPG combined, a good figure for a plug-in hybrid sedan that offers both performance and luxury. This reflects the advanced engineering of its Scandinavian design. Volvo is targeting buyers who value design, safety, and a commitment to electrification, and who are willing to accept a certain level of fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers show 30 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. Because it is a hybrid, the electric motor helps more in stop-and-go city driving, so the gasoline engine works less. On the highway, the electric assistance continues, but the gasoline engine is used more, resulting in slightly higher MPG. These are strong numbers for a luxury sedan with almost 450 horsepower when you combine electric and gasoline power. This isn’t a Prius, but a performance sedan with a fuel economy bonus.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Volvo S60 T8 AWD Recharge at $1,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a good benchmark for comparing running costs, but your actual fuel expenses will change depending on your driving, local fuel prices, and how much you drive on electric power.

Real-world expectations

To reach the EPA’s numbers in the real world, you need to drive carefully and charge consistently. The S60 T8’s plug-in hybrid system typically offers about 35-40 miles of electric-only range. To get the most out of that range, accelerate gently, anticipate traffic to reduce braking, and use regenerative braking to get energy back. Some owners report much better fuel economy than the EPA estimates, especially if their daily driving is within the electric range. On longer trips, where the gasoline engine is used more, the MPG will likely be closer to the EPA’s highway number.

How it compares

The S60 T8 is in a competitive market. The BMW 330e, another plug-in hybrid sedan, gets 28 MPG combined, a little less than the Volvo. The Mercedes-Benz C300, a direct competitor without a plug-in hybrid option, also gets around 28 MPG combined, but needs premium fuel. The Lexus ES 300h, a hybrid but not a plug-in, gets a much higher 44 MPG combined, but has less performance and a less exciting driving experience. This shows where the S60 T8 fits: it tries to balance efficiency and performance, attracting buyers who want both.

Drivers can compare this number to other cars by looking at S60 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Charge whenever possible. Use home, work, and public charging stations to keep the battery full. The more you drive on electricity, the less gas you’ll use, and the lower your running costs will be. A full battery can transform your fuel consumption.

Choose the right drive mode. The S60 T8 has different drive modes, including “Pure” (electric only), “Hybrid” (mixes electric and gasoline), and “Power” (for maximum performance). Use “Pure” for short trips and low-speed driving to get the most electric range. “Hybrid” is good for most situations, and “Power” is for when you need maximum acceleration.

Use regenerative braking. The S60 T8 has regenerative braking, which captures energy when you slow down and turns it into electricity to recharge the battery. Watch the traffic and lift off the accelerator early to get the most out of regenerative braking. This improves efficiency and reduces wear on the brakes.

Keep proper tire pressure and maintain your vehicle. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended level. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep the engine and other parts running well.

If you want to see all Volvo fuel economy data, we have it here.

Avoid driving aggressively. Accelerating quickly, braking hard, and driving at high speeds use more fuel. Drive smoothly and predictably, keep a steady speed, and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. These habits improve fuel economy, safety, and comfort.