25 MPG combined won’t break any fuel economy records, but for the 2017 Volvo S60 Cross Country AWD, it’s an acceptable trade-off. This isn’t a car designed to get the best possible mileage. It’s a comfortable, capable, and stylish sedan built for those who value Swedish design and all-weather security over pure efficiency. Buyers choose the S60 CC for its unique blend of strength and refinement, understanding that slightly worse fuel economy comes with its elevated ride height and standard all-wheel drive.

City and highway performance

The S60 Cross Country’s EPA ratings are 22 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands on the 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged engine during stop-and-go driving, where the all-wheel-drive system and extra weight can hurt gas mileage. The highway number is better, showing the engine’s efficiency at steady speeds. Volvo’s eight-speed automatic transmission helps use fuel efficiently, keeping the engine in its best range for both power and economy when cruising.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Volvo S60 Cross Country AWD is $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual cost will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Those with longer commutes or who frequently drive aggressively will likely spend more, while those with shorter commutes and a gentler driving style may see lower fuel costs. This provides a good point of reference for understanding the financial implications of owning this vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Many owners report numbers close to the EPA figures, while others see slightly lower or higher results. How you drive, tire pressure, and vehicle maintenance can all change fuel consumption. Expect to achieve figures within a reasonable range of the EPA estimates, but don’t be surprised if your personal experience differs slightly. The S60 CC’s fuel economy shows its main purpose: providing all-weather confidence and a comfortable ride, even if it sacrifices a few MPGs.

How it compares

When viewed against its competitors, the S60 Cross Country’s fuel economy paints an interesting picture. The Audi A4 Allroad, another lifted wagon with standard AWD, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined though its performance is undeniably better than the Volvo’s. The BMW 328i xDrive sedan, while not a direct competitor in terms of ground clearance, offers similar performance and AWD capability, managing around 26 MPG combined. An Acura TLX SH-AWD, offers AWD grip in a more “traditional” sedan package and comes in just slightly above the S60 CC at 24 MPG combined. Buyers drawn to the S60 CC often prioritize its unique styling and Scandinavian design over small fuel economy differences, valuing a distinct driving experience over potentially minor savings at the pump, all while considering S60 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration helps you get the most miles out of every gallon. Avoid hard starts and abrupt braking, allowing the turbo and supercharger to work most efficiently. By driving smoothly with the flow of traffic, you’ll put less stress on the engine and improve your fuel economy.

Regular maintenance and proper tire inflation can make a noticeable difference. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended levels.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds weight and reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any non-essential items to lighten the load and improve your MPG.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption, especially on fairly flat roads. This can help the transmission from shifting unnecessarily, but drive safely.

Using the correct grade of gasoline as recommended by Volvo is important for best engine performance and fuel efficiency. Refer to the owner’s manual and always use the correct fuel to avoid any potential engine issues or damage and to maximize your fuel economy. To see all Volvo fuel economy data, browse our complete archives.