The 2023 Volvo XC60 B5 2.0L 4-cyl achieves 26 MPG combined, a figure that places it in the middle of the luxury compact SUV segment. This isn’t a groundbreaking number, but it’s an acceptable compromise for buyers who prioritize Scandinavian design, advanced safety features, and a comfortable driving experience over pure fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

Those 26 miles per gallon break down to 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, according to the EPA. The city number is perhaps the more critical one for the typical XC60 buyer. Many XC60s are purchased by urban and suburban dwellers who use them for daily commutes, school runs, and errands. The highway figure is respectable and reflects the XC60’s comfortable cruising. The turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L engine, along with the eight-speed automatic transmission, delivers adequate power for merging and passing, without straining the engine. This allows the engine to work less, maximizing fuel economy potential.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Volvo XC60 B5 is $2,250. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and uses the national average fuel price. It’s important to remember that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your individual driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and where you live, as fuel prices can fluctuate significantly across different regions.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even the use of accessories like air conditioning can impact the numbers you see on your dashboard. The XC60 also features a mild-hybrid (MHEV) system that can contribute to fuel savings, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, where the electric motor assists the gasoline engine. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will undoubtedly reduce fuel economy, whereas smooth, steady driving will help you get closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The XC60’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. The BMW X3 sDrive30i, for example, achieves 25 MPG combined, while the Acura RDX manages 23 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 350h hybrid achieves a significantly better 39 MPG combined, but commands a higher price and caters to a different buyer. The Audi Q5 40 TFSI also achieves 26 MPG combined, mirroring the XC60. For buyers cross-shopping these vehicles, fuel economy is only one consideration among many, including price, features, and brand appeal. Potential Volvo buyers are willing to trade ultimate fuel efficiency for the XC60’s unique blend of safety, style, and comfort, and these are all available when you review XC60 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the XC60’s Eco driving mode. This setting optimizes the engine and transmission for fuel efficiency, often resulting in noticeable gains during everyday driving. It can make highway cruising even more fuel efficient, if selected when driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the tire placard, located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel and emits pollutants. The XC60’s start/stop system is designed to help with this, but ensure it’s active and functioning correctly.

Minimize your cargo weight. Carrying excessive weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area to lighten the load and improve your MPG. This can be even more important if you review all Volvo fuel economy data, as heavier Volvo vehicles can be especially sensitive to weight.

Drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel. Maintain a steady speed, anticipate traffic flow, and accelerate gradually to maximize your fuel efficiency. The XC60’s mild-hybrid system works better when you drive smoothly and evenly.