23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards in the compact luxury sedan segment, but for the 2016 Volvo S60 Inscription AWD with its distinctive 2.5L 5-cylinder engine, it represents a specific choice: comfort, confident all-weather capability, and a smooth driving experience prioritized over ultimate fuel efficiency. This S60 isn’t about chasing hypermiling records; it’s about providing a refined and secure ride for those who value understated luxury and a unique powertrain.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates peg the S60 Inscription AWD at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine working harder as it navigates stop-and-go traffic, while the highway number is achievable during consistent cruising speeds. This disparity indicates that drivers who spend a significant amount of time in urban environments will likely see fuel consumption closer to the lower end of the spectrum, while those with longer commutes on open roads will fare better. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and contributes to the overall relaxed driving feel, but doesn’t offer the fuel-saving potential of the eight or nine-speed units found in some competitor vehicles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Volvo S60 Inscription AWD at $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs between vehicles, but be aware that your actual expenses may vary depending on local fuel prices, driving style, and the proportion of city versus highway miles you typically drive. Individual budgets should account for variances above or below this $1,900 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized yardstick, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Drivers can expect figures slightly below the stated 23 MPG combined, particularly if they frequently engage the engine’s turbocharger for quicker acceleration or navigate challenging terrain. Those with a gentle driving style and a focus on maintaining consistent speeds may achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the use of accessories like air conditioning can all influence fuel consumption. Understanding your own driving habits is crucial to accurately predicting your S60’s fuel costs. Comparing your experiences to other owners on Volvo-specific forums can also provide valuable insights.

How it compares

The 2016 S60 Inscription AWD faces stiff competition in the compact luxury sedan segment. A similarly equipped BMW 328i xDrive from the same year typically achieves around 26 MPG combined. The difference comes down to BMW’s engine design, which is engineered to balance performance and efficiency. And, the Audi A4 Quattro (around 25 MPG combined) offers a slightly more efficient alternative. Even Lexus with the IS 300 AWD averages around 22 MPG combined. Those considering the Volvo S60 prioritize the attributes of the vehicle itself, likely accepting its slightly lower fuel economy for its unique character and comfort over outright fuel savings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The turbocharger in the 2.5L engine delivers a satisfying boost, but using it frequently will negatively impact fuel economy. Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels indicated on the driver’s side doorjamb. This is a simple yet effective way to improve MPG.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger cabin that you don’t need on a regular basis. Extra weight puts a strain on the engine and reduces fuel efficiency, especially in city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which is more efficient than fluctuating speeds caused by manually controlling the throttle. This technique is especially useful on relatively flat stretches of highway.

Keep the vehicle properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures that the engine is running optimally and efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel.

Interested in more efficiency details? See all Volvo fuel economy data here. If you’re focused on the specific model, you can view S60 MPG across all years as well.