The 2016 Volvo V60 Polestar gets 21 MPG combined. Pragmatic Volvo owners might initially balk at this figure, but readily accept it knowing what this specific V60 delivers: a unique blend of Swedish sensibilities, practical wagon utility, and unexpected performance. This isn’t an ordinary V60; it’s a statement, a conscious choice that prioritizes driving dynamics and exclusivity over fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway reflect the Polestar’s performance-oriented tuning. Around town, the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six’s eagerness and the all-wheel-drive system contribute to the lower city figure. The immediate power encourages spirited acceleration, consuming more fuel than a typical commute-focused vehicle. On the open road, the story improves. At a steady cruising speed, the Polestar settles into a more efficient rhythm, allowing highway MPG to climb into the mid-to-high twenties. However, even on the highway, a heavy foot will quickly erase any fuel-saving potential, urging you to exploit the engine’s reserve of power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Volvo V60 Polestar at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average for premium gasoline (which the Polestar requires). Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary significantly based on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the proportion of city versus highway driving. Those who frequently engage in spirited driving should anticipate spending more than the EPA’s estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy for the V60 Polestar can vary considerably. Owners who primarily drive in congested urban environments may see MPG figures at the lower end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. Conversely, those who spend more time on the highway, maintaining consistent speeds, may achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the 27 MPG highway estimate. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel economy. However, many Polestar owners accept these trade-offs willingly, viewing them as the cost of enjoying the car’s unique character and performance.

How it compares

Compared to other performance-oriented wagons and sedans from 2016, the V60 Polestar lands somewhere in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. The Audi S4, with its supercharged V6, offers slightly better combined MPG, typically around 24. Opting for a BMW 340i sedan with xDrive might yield around 25 MPG combined. A Subaru WRX STI, while offering similar levels of performance, would see real-world numbers dipping to 20 or even 19 MPG. The slightly more efficient Audi allroad offered only a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine for the 2016 model year. These comparisons highlight the Polestar’s position: it’s not the most fuel-efficient option, but the exclusivity and unique Swedish heritage holds appeal for a particular buyer segment. For all Volvo fuel economy data, check out Volvo’s brand page, and you can dig deeper into V60 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire inflation, as indicated on the door jamb sticker, can noticeably improve fuel economy. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and adjusting tire pressure is a simple yet effective way to boost MPG.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Polestar’s powerful engine can be tempting to unleash, but doing so frequently will take a toll on fuel consumption. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions to minimize hard braking can significantly improve fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying excessive cargo adds extra load, which requires more energy to move. Removing any items that are not essential can help to improve fuel economy, especially during city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This helps to minimize unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to better fuel efficiency on long journeys. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and avoid using cruise control in heavy traffic.