Volvo XC90 AWD
22.5 MPG The 2021 Volvo XC90 AWD is EPA-rated at 22.5 MPG combined (19.5 city / 28 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 667 gallons, $2133 a year in fuel, or $0.142 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2003–2021 run it averages 18.7 MPG, improving by 5.5 MPG over 18 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.111 | $1111 | $1667 | $2222 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.133 | $1333 | $2000 | $2667 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.142 | $1422 | $2133 | $2844 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.156 | $1556 | $2333 | $3111 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.178 | $1778 | $2667 | $3556 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.200 | $2000 | $3000 | $4000 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.222 | $2222 | $3333 | $4444 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 22.5 MPG | 19.5 | 28 | $3425 | 387 | 2 |
| 2020 | 22 MPG | 19 | 26.5 | $3500 | 408 | 2 |
| 2019 | 22.5 MPG | 19.5 | 26.5 | $3425 | 397 | 2 |
| 2018 | 23.5 MPG | 21 | 27.5 | $3275 | 380 | 2 |
| 2017 | 22.5 MPG | 21 | 25 | $3425 | 392 | 2 |
| 2016 | 22.5 MPG | 21 | 25 | $3425 | 391 | 2 |
| 2014 | 18 MPG | 16 | 23 | $3450 | 472 | 1 |
| 2013 | 18 MPG | 16 | 22 | $3450 | 476 | 1 |
| 2012 | 18 MPG | 16 | 22 | $3450 | 494 | 1 |
| 2011 | 17 MPG | 15 | 21.5 | $3675 | 525 | 2 |
| 2010 | 16 MPG | 14 | 20 | $3900 | 558 | 2 |
| 2009 | 15.5 MPG | 13.5 | 19.5 | $4025 | 574 | 2 |
| 2008 | 15.5 MPG | 13.5 | 19.5 | $4975 | 574 | 2 |
| 2007 | 16.3 MPG | 14 | 19.7 | $4750 | 546 | 3 |
| 2006 | 16 MPG | 14 | 19.5 | $4850 | 558 | 2 |
| 2005 | 16 MPG | 14 | 19.3 | $4833 | 557 | 3 |
| 2004 | 17 MPG | 15 | 20.5 | $4550 | 525 | 2 |
| 2003 | 17 MPG | 15 | 20.5 | $4550 | 525 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 97 sport utility vehicle - 4wd models tracked here, the Volvo XC90 AWD ranks 9 on current figures, against a class average of 18.4 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Nissan Pathfinder 4WD (23), BMW X5 xDrive35d (25), Honda CR-V 4WD (27), Toyota Highlander Hybrid 4WD (28), Ford Escape Hybrid 4WD (29).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 387 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.8 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Volvo XC90 AWD get?
The 2021 Volvo XC90 AWD is rated at 22.5 MPG combined by the EPA — 19.5 city and 28 highway. Across all 18 model years in the database it averages 18.7 MPG, ranging from 15 to 24 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Volvo XC90 AWD cost in fuel per year?
At 22.5 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 667 gallons — roughly $2133 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.142 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2021 model is $3425.
Has the Volvo XC90 AWD become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 17 MPG in 2003 to 22.5 in 2021 — an improvement of 5.5 MPG, or 32% across 18 model years.
Is the Volvo XC90 AWD efficient for its class?
It ranks 9 of 97 in the Sport Utility Vehicle - 4WD class on current figures, against a class average of 18.4 MPG. That is 4.1 better than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.