29 MPG combined is an acceptable, though not outstanding, figure for the 2018 Volvo S90 T8 eAWD Plug-In Hybrid. This isn’t a car bought solely for maximizing fuel economy. It’s a comfortable, safe luxury sedan with a plug-in hybrid system for shorter commutes and errands, plus all-wheel drive for year-round confidence.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S90 T8 eAWD achieves 26 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the blended use of both the gasoline engine and electric motor. The city rating is particularly relevant because many S90 T8 owners prioritize electric-only driving for daily commutes in urban environments. Under electric power alone, the S90 offers a limited, but significant, all-electric range, substantially boosting efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. The highway figure positions it competitively against other luxury sedans of similar size and power, although pure gasoline cars often outperform hybrids on long highway trips.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Volvo S90 T8 eAWD is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage allocated to city versus highway driving, and using national average fuel prices when the estimate was calculated. Actual costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the frequency with which the vehicle is charged. Drivers who maximize electric-only operation will undoubtedly spend far less, while those primarily relying on the gasoline engine will see fuel costs closer to that of a conventional gasoline-powered sedan.

Real-world expectations

The S90 T8’s real-world fuel economy heavily depends on how it’s driven. Those who charge the battery and drive in electric mode for shorter trips can easily exceed the EPA estimates, potentially seeing the equivalent of 50 MPG or higher on certain days. However, if the battery is depleted and the vehicle is primarily operating in hybrid mode, expect efficiency to fall closer to the mid-20s MPG range. Aggressive driving will further reduce fuel economy, while a more conservative approach, using features like Eco mode, can help improve it.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Volvo S90 T8 eAWD presents a unique value. The BMW 530e, another plug-in hybrid luxury sedan, achieves around 27 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E350, a non-hybrid option, achieves around 25 MPG Combined. The Lexus ES 300h hybrid achieves around 44 MPG combined but isn’t a plug-in hybrid, nor does it offer the same level of performance as the S90 T8. The Audi A6, depending on the engine, gets around 25 MPG combined.

For buyers prioritizing all-electric range and the ability to significantly reduce their gasoline consumption, the S90 T8 holds an advantage. For those less interested in plug-in capability, a conventional hybrid or gasoline engine might offer comparable fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Make charging a routine. The S90 T8’s plug-in hybrid system works best when the battery is kept fully charged. Integrate charging into your daily routine, whether at home, at work, or at public charging stations. Consistent charging maximizes electric-only driving and minimizes reliance on the gasoline engine.

Use the driving modes. The S90 T8 offers various driving modes, including Pure (electric only), Hybrid (blended power), and Power (maximum performance). Select “Pure” mode for shorter trips and city driving to maximize electric range. “Hybrid” mode is best suited for longer journeys where both electric and gasoline power are needed.

Practice smooth driving techniques. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, which consume more energy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed to optimize fuel efficiency. Using regenerative braking effectively captures energy during deceleration further extends electric range.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level. This simple step can improve gas mileage and extend tire life.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger areas to lighten the load. Every pound counts, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Explore all Volvo fuel economy data and discover how the S90 T8 fits within the broader Volvo lineup. You can also explore S90 MPG across all years to see how this model’s fuel efficiency has evolved over time. The 2018 S90 T8 presents a mix of luxury, performance, and reduced running costs with regular charging.