30 MPG combined is respectable for the 2022 Volvo V60 T8 AWD Recharge, but that number doesn’t tell you everything. This is a plug-in hybrid wagon that emphasizes performance and luxury. The V60 Recharge is for someone who wants a stylish, comfortable, and powerful wagon with electric driving range for shorter commutes and the security of all-wheel drive for all weather conditions. They accept this fuel economy rating in exchange for what the V60 T8 offers. They aren’t chasing Prius-level efficiency, but seeking a versatile vehicle for their active lifestyle, and the V60 delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the V60 Recharge at 28 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. Consider how these numbers work in real-world driving. The city MPG benefits from the electric motor’s assistance, especially in stop-and-go traffic where the gasoline engine can shut off. Short trips can be done entirely on electric power, boosting the car’s efficiency. The highway figure represents the gasoline engine’s performance without electric assistance. Drivers who take longer road trips might see numbers closer to the highway rating if they don’t recharge. The V60 Recharge’s fuel economy depends on driving habits and access to charging.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Volvo V60 T8 AWD Recharge at $1,950. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving style, local gasoline prices, and electric driving. Someone who drives short commutes and charges the battery regularly might spend less than $1,950 per year on fuel. Someone who frequently takes long road trips and rarely plugs in could spend more. You can review all Volvo fuel economy data to see how other models compare.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a baseline; your actual fuel economy will differ. The V60 T8 Recharge’s plug-in hybrid system is sensitive to driving habits and charging frequency. If you consistently plug in and drive on electric power, you’ll see better fuel economy than the EPA estimates. If you treat it like a standard hybrid and rarely charge, your numbers will likely be lower. Expect anywhere from 25 MPG to upwards of 40 MPG depending on how you drive. Access to home charging greatly impacts efficiency.

How it compares

The V60 Recharge’s fuel economy is competitive compared to other luxury wagons, especially considering its performance. The Audi A4 allroad typically achieves around 24 MPG combined in real-world driving. Some also consider the BMW 330e xDrive, a plug-in hybrid sedan with a combined MPGe of 75 but a gasoline-only MPG of 28 combined. While that BMW might offer better MPGe figures, the Volvo’s wagon practicality and all-wheel drive often sway buyers. Comparing the V60 with non-hybrid wagons isn’t apples-to-apples. For a broader perspective, you can examine V60 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the V60 Recharge’s electric mode whenever possible. Plan your trips to maximize the available electric range, especially for short errands and commutes. Pre-conditioning the cabin while the car is plugged in can conserve battery power because it draws energy from the grid.

Smooth and consistent driving will impact your fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, which can deplete the battery and force the gasoline engine to work harder. Use regenerative braking to recapture energy and extend your driving range. The V60 has variable regen settings that you can adjust.

Regularly check your tire pressure to ensure optimal rolling resistance. Under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy. Use the recommended tire pressure specified on the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo can reduce fuel efficiency, especially when accelerating or driving uphill. Remove any items that you don’t need for daily driving.

Consider using the “B” gear setting, which increases regenerative braking and allows for one-pedal driving. This will improve your efficiency, especially in city driving, by maximizing energy recapture.