20 MPG combined won’t impress anyone in 2016, but that’s the combined fuel economy for the Volvo XC60 AWD with the 3.0L turbocharged inline-six. This SUV was designed as a safe, comfortable, and capable family vehicle, one that focused on smooth power and all-weather capability over extreme fuel efficiency. Buyers of this XC60 understood the trade-offs; they valued the advanced engine and confident traction more than maximizing every last mile per gallon.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Volvo XC60 AWD 3.0L 6-cyl are 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the reality of a turbocharged engine moving a vehicle weighing over 4,200 pounds. City driving, with its frequent stops, reduces fuel economy because the engine works harder to accelerate the XC60 from zero. Highway driving is better, but the vehicle’s shape and the need to maintain speed still affect mileage. Volvo’s six-speed automatic transmission, though smooth and well-suited to the engine, is less efficient than the 8-speed and 10-speed automatics found in newer vehicles and some competitors at the time.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Volvo XC60 AWD 3.0L 6-cyl at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the average national gas price at the time. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local gas prices, and the fuel grade chosen, but $2,200 is a standard benchmark to compare the XC60’s fuel costs with other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

Real-world MPG often differs from EPA estimates. Drivers who frequently use the turbocharger for fast acceleration or spend lots of time in heavy traffic will likely see lower numbers. Drivers with a lighter touch who mainly drive on the highway might get results closer to, or even slightly above, the 23 MPG highway figure. The vehicle’s age and maintenance also matter. A well-maintained XC60 with new spark plugs, clean air filters, and properly inflated tires will usually perform better than a neglected one. Curious about all Volvo fuel economy data? See what owners report via fuel tracking apps!

How it compares

In 2016, the XC60’s fuel economy was average for its class. The Acura RDX, with its 3.5L V6 and available AWD, got a little better, at 22 MPG combined. The BMW X3 xDrive28i, with its turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder and AWD, achieved a more appealing 24 MPG combined. Even within Volvo’s lineup, the newer XC90 T6 offered similar size and passenger capacity with better fuel efficiency, thanks to its newer engine and eight-speed transmission. Someone needing AWD in a smaller Volvo can check XC60 MPG across all years, comparing available powertrains. Buyers of the XC60 accepted the 3.0L’s MPG because they liked the smooth, consistent power of the inline-six and the strong feeling it provided. They also may have found the Acura or BMW less appealing to drive, or simply preferred Volvo’s safety reputation and Scandinavian design.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking can significantly improve fuel economy in the 2016 XC60. Avoid pressing hard on the gas pedal, as this makes the turbocharger work harder and use more fuel. Anticipate traffic and brake gradually to reduce unnecessary stops.

Make sure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase drag, which lowers fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure often, especially when the temperature changes.

Reduce idling time. If stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel. This is important in cities with frequent stoplights.

Maintain your vehicle with regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug service. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, leading to better fuel economy. See the owner’s manual for the maintenance schedule. Clogged air filters make the engine work harder, so keep it fresh.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. Cruise control can prevent sudden acceleration, which wastes fuel. Watch traffic and disengage cruise control in congested areas.