The 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country B6 AWD gets 25 MPG combined. It’s not a number that will win any fuel efficiency contests, but for a luxury wagon with standard all-wheel drive, it’s a respectable compromise. The V90 Cross Country isn’t for those solely focused on maximizing fuel efficiency, but for buyers who value Scandinavian design, a comfortable and spacious interior, and confidence in all-weather driving. They prioritize elegant practicality over saving money on fuel.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the V90 Cross Country gets 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, even with its supercharger and turbocharger, works harder to move the nearly two-ton wagon. However, the highway number indicates the V90 Cross Country’s relaxed cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to run at a lower RPM at higher speeds, improving fuel economy on longer trips. Expect to see numbers that closely mirror these EPA estimates in real-world driving, if you avoid flooring the accelerator too often.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Volvo V90 Cross Country B6 AWD at $2,300. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, your actual annual fuel cost will be higher. However, if you drive fewer miles or fuel costs are lower, you’ll spend less. It’s a useful benchmark, but a personalized calculation is always more accurate. You can compare this estimate with all Volvo fuel economy data to see how it compares.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized framework, real-world fuel economy often deviates due to driving style, terrain, and environmental conditions. V90 Cross Country drivers who spend significant time in urban gridlock can expect numbers closer to the 22 MPG city estimate, or slightly lower if they drive aggressively. However, those who primarily drive on long highway commutes or road trips may be surprised to see figures exceeding the 29 MPG highway estimate, especially if they accelerate gently and use the adaptive cruise control system. The V90CC’s all-wheel-drive system also impacts fuel consumption, especially in bad weather where the system engages more frequently to maintain traction.

How it compares

The V90 Cross Country occupies a niche segment, but it still has competition. The Audi A6 allroad, with its standard 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, gets a slightly lower EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E450 4MATIC All-Terrain wagon is a more direct competitor regarding price and prestige, but its turbocharged inline-six engine also returns around 24 MPG combined. The Subaru Outback Wilderness, while not a direct luxury competitor, offers similar levels of off-pavement capability at a far more fuel-efficient 26 MPG combined, but with a less luxurious driving experience and interior. For Volvo loyalists, exploring V90CC MPG across all years might highlight slight fuel economy variations from model year to model year. Ultimately, the V90 Cross Country buyer prioritizes a unique blend of luxury, capability, and understated style, and is often willing to accept a slight fuel economy penalty compared to more mainstream SUVs or sedans.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the V90 Cross Country’s Eco drive mode. This setting optimizes the engine and transmission for maximum fuel efficiency, often softening throttle response and encouraging earlier upshifts. This small change can lead to savings over time, especially during everyday commuting.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder which consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, referring to the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure. A simple tire pressure gauge can pay for itself quickly by saving fuel.

Remove unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, negatively impacting fuel efficiency. Remove any items that aren’t essential for your daily driving, such as sports equipment, tools, or other heavy objects. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Drive smoothly and consistently. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Try to anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Gradual acceleration and gentle braking not only improve fuel economy, but also make it easier to drive.

Use cruise control on long highway journeys. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing fluctuations that can negatively impact fuel efficiency. While adaptive cruise control uses more fuel due to its braking and accelerating, adaptive cruise control is better for maintaining consistent fuel usage during your frequent long-range trips for work.