25 MPG combined is a compromise the 2019 Volvo V90 Cross Country driver willingly accepts. This isn’t a car bought for outright economy; it’s chosen for its blend of Scandanavian design, all-weather confidence, and wagon practicality few other vehicles offer. The V90 Cross Country is a statement, and the fuel bill is simply the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Volvo V90 Cross Country AWD are 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. In urban environments, the turbocharged and supercharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine works harder to overcome the car’s nearly 4,300-pound curb weight. The stop-and-go nature of city driving doesn’t allow the engine to settle into its most efficient range. On the open road, however, the V90 Cross Country shines.

The smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission helps the engine maintain lower RPMs at cruising speeds, contributing to that respectable 31 MPG highway figure. Its all-wheel drive system also has minimal impact on pure highway cruise. Drivers who prioritize long road trips will find the highway MPG a more accurate reflection of their typical fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the average owner of a 2019 Volvo V90 Cross Country AWD will spend approximately $2,300 per year on fuel. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using the EPA’s combined MPG figure, and factoring in national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary.

Factors that could influence your spending include local fuel prices, driving style (aggressive acceleration and braking hurt economy), and the proportion of city versus highway miles you drive. The EPA derives all Volvo fuel economy data using standardized tests to ensure a level playing field when comparing vehicles, but real-world results often differ.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a helpful benchmark, drivers should manage their expectations and understand that real-world fuel economy often deviates from the official numbers. Some V90 Cross Country owners report figures slightly below the EPA’s combined estimate, particularly if they frequently drive in congested urban areas or have a heavy foot. Conversely, those who primarily stick to highway driving and practice fuel-efficient driving techniques may see figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the 31 MPG highway estimate.

Ultimately, the actual fuel economy you achieve will depend on a range of factors specific to your driving habits and environment. Remember to consult resources for V90 MPG across all years for more user-generated data.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2019 Volvo V90 Cross Country AWD is decent, given its mission and capabilities, but it’s important to consider the competition. The Audi A6 allroad, another popular luxury wagon with standard all-wheel drive, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Similarly, the Subaru Outback, though not quite in the same luxury segment, tops out around 26 MPG combined. These differences might be negligible for some buyers, but for those highly sensitive to fuel costs, they’re worth considering.

Drivers cross-shopping with SUVs might also find themselves comparing with the Volvo XC60, which in T5 guise (2.0L turbo engine) is rated at 22 MPG city and 29 MPG highway; however, it lacks some of the V90 CC’s cargo capacity and unique style. Ultimately, the V90 Cross Country driver cares about a unique blend of attributes, and may consider a few MPG a worthwhile tradeoff.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking. The V90 Cross Country’s turbocharged and supercharged engine delivers ample power, but using it judiciously will significantly improve fuel economy. Smooth, gradual acceleration is the key to keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. Anticipating traffic flow and easing off the accelerator early can also help minimize unnecessary braking, further improving fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and maintain regular maintenance. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure, as specified in your owner’s manual, can make a noticeable difference. Similarly, adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes and air filter replacements, will help ensure that the engine runs optimally.

Use the car’s drive mode settings. The V90 Cross Country offers various drive modes, including an “Eco” mode designed to prioritize fuel efficiency. Selecting this mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to optimize fuel consumption. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can be a helpful tool for maximizing efficiency, especially on long highway trips or in stop-and-go traffic.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo in the vehicle increases its overall weight and reduces fuel economy. Take a look at what you keep in your V90 Cross Country and remove any items that aren’t essential. Every pound adds up, and freeing up extra weight can help improve your MPG, especially around town.