29 MPG combined is respectable for the 2015 Volvo V60 FWD 2.0L, but it’s not the main reason people choose this Swedish wagon. It’s about a refined driving experience, distinctive design, and practicality in a package that’s subtly different from the typical German car. The V60 buyer appreciates efficiency, but they prioritize a certain European sensibility that values comfort, safety, and understated cool.

City and highway performance

The 2015 V60’s EPA ratings are 25 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city figure is adequate, reflecting stop-and-go traffic where the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder works harder. The highway number is where the V60 excels. The eight-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel efficiency on longer trips. This makes the V60 a comfortable and relatively economical choice for road trips, assuming you aren’t expecting hybrid-like numbers over mountain passes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Volvo V60 FWD 2.0L at $1,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for optimal performance, though not required), and local fuel prices. Stop-and-go driving will push that figure higher, consistent highway driving will likely bring it down. The $1,500 figure is a useful benchmark for comparing the V60’s running costs to other vehicles in its class, and to other models within all Volvo fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. You can expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will negatively impact your MPG. Careful driving habits and prioritizing highway miles can bring you closer to, or even slightly exceed, the EPA numbers. Driving smoothly and maintaining a consistent speed whenever possible, can help. Remember that the turbocharged engine can be sensitive to driving style; heavy-footed drivers will see a more significant drop in fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2015 V60’s fuel economy is competitive. A comparable BMW 328i wagon from the same year achieves around 22 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. The Audi A4 Allroad, with its standard all-wheel drive, comes in around 21 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. While those competitor numbers are interesting, someone considering V60 MPG across all years is unlikely to cross-shop those vehicles. The difference in fuel economy is small compared to the differences in design. Those minor variations in MPG figures won’t be the deciding factor for the buyer looking for a sleek, Scandinavian wagon. They value the Volvo’s unique aesthetic and reputation for safety.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the V60’s ECO mode, if the car has it. This setting adjusts throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. It may slightly reduce performance, but it can make a noticeable difference in overall MPG, particularly in city driving. It’s a simple way to reduce power and save fuel.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Avoid unnecessary idling, because idling the engine for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to waste fuel idling.

Plan your trips and combine errands. Making multiple short trips consumes more fuel than one longer trip. Try to consolidate your errands into a single route to minimize cold starts and reduce overall fuel consumption. This is especially important in colder climates, where the engine takes longer to reach its optimal operating temperature.