The 2018 Volvo S60 Inscription FWD 2.0L 4-cyl gets a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG, making it a respectably efficient compact luxury sedan. While not the best in its class, it’s a good option for buyers who value Scandinavian design, comfortable features, and a responsive driving experience more than getting the absolute best gas mileage. This S60 is about enjoying a premium experience without constant gas station fill-ups.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 S60 Inscription are 25 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the impact of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine’s start/stop system helps save fuel. However, frequent acceleration will affect your mileage. On the open road, the 36 MPG highway rating is easier to achieve. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts to a comfortable cruising gear, allowing the engine to run efficiently at highway speeds. This makes the S60 Inscription a capable and economical choice for longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the average driver of a 2018 Volvo S60 Inscription FWD will spend about $1,500 on fuel per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary based on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fuel price changes. Consider this figure a benchmark to compare against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standard for comparison, real-world fuel economy can vary. Factors like aggressive driving, heavy loads, and extreme weather can all hurt fuel efficiency. Owners who accelerate smoothly, maintain consistent speeds, and avoid idling are more likely to get closer to the EPA estimates. Properly inflated tires and regular maintenance also help. The S60’s trip computer can provide insights into your driving habits, helping you identify areas for improvement and track your actual fuel economy.

How it compares

In the compact luxury sedan segment, the 2018 S60’s fuel economy is competitive. The Acura ILX, with its 2.4-liter engine and 8-speed DCT, achieves a similar 29 MPG combined. Some versions of the BMW 3 Series, specifically the 320i, also get around 28-29 MPG combined. However, some models like the Lexus IS 300 with rear-wheel drive are a little behind at around 24 MPG combined. The Audi A4 Ultra, designed for efficiency, can sometimes do better than the S60, getting closer to 31 MPG combined. For the S60 buyer, small differences in MPG may be less important than the driving experience, safety features, and brand, but it’s wise to consider S60 MPG across all years when deciding.

Tips to maximize efficiency

If your S60 has it, use the Eco driving mode. This setting optimizes engine and transmission performance for best fuel efficiency. It might reduce responsiveness a bit, but it can improve your MPG on longer trips. Switch back to a more responsive mode when you need to accelerate quicker.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. The sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb shows the recommended tire pressure for your S60 to ensure good fuel economy and handling.

Avoid aggressive driving like hard acceleration and sudden braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are safer and improve fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed when you can.

Minimize idling. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The S60’s start/stop system shuts off the engine at red lights, but you can manually turn off the car in longer situations to save fuel. Also look at all Volvo fuel economy data to give you a clearer picture of options.