The 2021 Volvo S60 T5 FWD gets 27 MPG combined. It’s important to understand why buyers choose this configuration. The front-wheel-drive S60 with the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is for value and efficiency in the compact luxury sedan segment, unlike the all-wheel-drive variants which prioritize all-weather confidence, or the Recharge plug-in hybrid that boasts electric driving capability. These buyers want a premium experience, the carefully crafted interior, the sleek Scandinavian design, and Volvo’s reputation for safety, without needing maximum performance or cutting-edge electrification. They accept a more modest fuel economy in exchange for a lower purchase price and reduced running costs compared to the more complex models in the S60 lineup.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates give a more detailed look into where the S60 T5 FWD shines and where it performs adequately. The 23 MPG city rating reflects the engine’s behavior in stop-and-go traffic. The turbocharger provides sufficient low-end torque for confident launches, but frequent acceleration and deceleration events reduce fuel efficiency. On the open road, the S60’s 34 MPG highway rating is a strong selling point. The smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission optimizes engine speed for cruising, helping to achieve impressive mileage during long-distance journeys. This performance profile makes the S60 T5 FWD appealing to commuters who frequently hit the highway, or to those who prioritize longer trips over city driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Volvo S60 T5 FWD is $2,150. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark for budgeting, but your actual fuel costs will depend on your individual driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and fluctuations in gas prices.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standardized testing data, but real-world fuel economy often deviates from the official numbers. Driving style (aggressive acceleration and braking), traffic conditions (congestion), weather (cold temperatures can reduce efficiency), and even tire pressure can influence your MPG. Owners should track their fuel consumption over time to establish a baseline and identify any significant drops in efficiency, which could mean the vehicle needs maintenance.

How it compares

The S60 T5 FWD faces stiff competition in the compact luxury sedan segment. The BMW 330i, known for its sharp handling, achieves a comparable 26 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C 300, with its opulent interior and advanced technology, also lands around 26 MPG combined. The Acura TLX, targeting a value-oriented buyer, gets around 25 MPG combined with its base engine and front-wheel drive. The Lexus IS 300 rear-wheel drive model manages 24 MPG combined. The S60 T5 FWD’s 27 MPG provides a slight edge in fuel economy over some of its primary rivals. This difference can translate to savings at the pump over the vehicle’s lifespan, which is significant for buyers seeking to balance luxury with practicality. You can review S60 MPG across all years to see how this model compares. Or for more information, check all Volvo fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt smooth driving habits to reduce fuel consumption. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, as these actions put unnecessary strain on the engine and consume more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to reduced fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes significantly.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle to improve fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or backseat, as carrying extra weight requires the engine to work harder. The less you carry, the better your MPG will be.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a constant speed and optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps to prevent unintentional acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic patterns, and disengage cruise control when necessary.