25 MPG combined is a reasonable figure for the 2018 Volvo S90 AWD 2.0L 4-cylinder. It’s a car that prioritizes elegant design, quiet comfort, and all-weather confidence over maximizing gas mileage. This isn’t a sports sedan. It’s a luxurious and understated executive car, and its target customer understands that certain choices involve trade-offs. Buyers in colder climates who value the security of all-wheel drive, or those who regularly transport passengers in quiet comfort, will accept this fuel economy as a cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway for this particular S90 configuration. The urban figure reflects the engine’s occasional low-speed lag, a common trait of turbocharged four-cylinder engines. The S90’s eight-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, but it can sometimes hesitate to downshift quickly during stop-and-go driving, impacting fuel consumption. On the open road, however, with the cruise control engaged, the S90 settles into a relaxed and efficient pace, easily achieving or even exceeding the EPA’s highway estimate. The car’s excellent aerodynamics and tall gearing contribute significantly to its long-distance fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Volvo S90 AWD 2.0L 4-cylinder is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. Drivers who spend most of their time in congested city traffic will likely see a higher annual fuel cost than those who primarily drive on the highway. Keep in mind that premium gasoline isn’t strictly required, but the S90’s engine is designed to perform optimally with it; using regular fuel may result in slightly reduced performance and potentially even a small dip in fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Drivers who regularly engage in spirited driving or frequently carry heavy loads can expect to see mileage closer to the lower end of the EPA’s range. Conversely, those who drive conservatively and prioritize smooth acceleration and braking may achieve results that exceed the EPA estimates. The S90’s “Eco” mode can also help to improve fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points. Regularly checking tire pressures and ensuring proper vehicle maintenance are also critical for maintaining optimal fuel economy. Check out S90 MPG across all years if you want to research more.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals in the mid-size luxury sedan segment, the 2018 Volvo S90’s fuel economy is competitive, but not class-leading. The BMW 530i xDrive, for example, achieves a slightly better EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 27 MPG, thanks to its similarly sized but arguably more refined turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Mercedes-Benz E300 4MATIC, another direct competitor, is rated at 25 MPG combined, matching the S90. Audi’s A6 2.0T Quattro achieves 25 MPG combined too. The S90 stands apart in its unique blend of Scandinavian design, prioritizing comfort and safety over outright performance. Buyers drawn to the S90 are typically less concerned with squeezing every last mile per gallon and more focused on the overall driving experience, the inherent safety features, and the understated elegance that Volvo provides. View all Volvo fuel economy data to put this model in context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The S90’s forced-induction engine is responsive, but stomping on the accelerator pedal will quickly deplete fuel. Practice smooth, gradual acceleration to minimize fuel consumption, especially during city driving. Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Use cruise control wisely on the highway. Using cruise control on long, flat stretches of road can help to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel efficiency. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, where the system may frequently downshift to maintain speed, negating any potential fuel savings.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly, preferably when the tires are cold, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. A simple tire pressure check can provide a worthwhile fuel saving.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t cause any significant wear and tear by frequently turning the engine on and off. The S90 also offers an Auto Start/Stop feature which can be enabled for automatic engine shutdown during idling.

Use “Eco” drive mode. The S90 includes a drive mode selector, and “Eco” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response, shift patterns, and climate control settings. This mode is best suited for relaxed cruising or highway driving, where maximizing fuel economy is the primary objective and outright performance isn’t necessary.