29 MPG combined isn’t going to set any fuel economy records, but it’s a respectable figure for the 2017 Volvo S60 Inscription FWD. This car is a long-wheelbase variant of a compact luxury sedan, designed to offer rear-seat passengers limousine-like legroom while still providing a reasonably engaging driving experience. This configuration appeals to a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes comfortable passenger transport, particularly for business or family use, but also appreciates a touch of Scandinavian design and driving refinement.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 S60 Inscription FWD at 25 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. These figures accurately reflect the car’s behavior in different driving environments. The 25 MPG city rating is aided by the relatively light weight of the front-wheel drive S60 and the smooth operation of its eight-speed automatic transmission. The transmission is quick to upshift, keeping the engine in its most efficient range when cruising around town. The 36 MPG highway figure is achievable on long road trips if you resist the urge to frequently dip into the turbocharger’s power reserves. Maintaining a steady speed, using cruise control when appropriate, and avoiding aggressive acceleration will allow you to reach, or even slightly exceed, that rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Volvo S60 Inscription FWD at $1,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This cost is a useful benchmark for comparing the S60 to other vehicles in its class or for evaluating the potential savings of switching to a more fuel-efficient model. It assumes the use of regular unleaded gasoline, which is what Volvo recommends for this engine. While premium fuel *might* yield a slight performance improvement, it’s unlikely to result in any significant fuel economy benefit, making it an unnecessary expense.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a good starting point, remember that your actual fuel economy will depend on your individual driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and even the weather conditions. Short trips, frequent stop-and-go traffic, and aggressive acceleration will all negatively impact your MPG. In contrast, long highway drives at a constant speed will yield the best results. Owners reporting their experiences on fuel economy tracking sites often see numbers slightly below the EPA combined estimate, typically in the 26-28 MPG range. This discrepancy is common and highlights the importance of considering your own driving style when estimating your fuel costs.

How it compares

The 2017 S60 Inscription’s fuel economy sits in a competitive spot within the compact luxury sedan segment. For example, the BMW 320i, a common competitor, offers a similar driving experience with an EPA-rated 28 MPG combined. The Audi A4, another popular choice, can achieve up to 31 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Acura TLX with its 2.4L engine and 8-speed DCT also comes in close at 28 MPG combined. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over the course of a year and factor into the overall cost of ownership. For those exploring all Volvo fuel economy data, it’s important to remember the S60 Inscription prioritizes rear passenger space, a factor that can slightly impact fuel economy compared to shorter wheelbase competitors. You can also explore S60 MPG across all years. Fuel economy is just one part of the equation; factors like reliability, standard features, and overall driving experience also weigh heavily on the decision of who buys this vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the S60 Inscription. The turbocharged engine provides ample power when needed, but resist the urge to constantly tap into it. Instead, focus on smooth, gradual acceleration from a stop and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary braking.

Proper tire inflation is another easy way to improve your S60’s fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, at least once a month, and ensure it matches the recommended pressure listed on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Minimize the use of accessories like air conditioning, especially on shorter trips. The A/C compressor puts a significant load on the engine, which reduces fuel economy. When possible, opt for recirculated air or simply roll down the windows, particularly at lower speeds.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine will outweigh the fuel needed to restart it.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient. Also, try to avoid peak traffic times, when stop-and-go conditions can significantly reduce your MPG.