Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV
27 MPG The 2021 Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV is EPA-rated at 27 MPG combined (26 city / 28 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 556 gallons, $1778 a year in fuel, or $0.119 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2016–2021 run it averages 26 MPG, improving by 2 MPG over 6 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 | $0.093 | $926 | $1389 | $1852 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.111 | $1111 | $1667 | $2222 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.119 | $1185 | $1778 | $2370 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.130 | $1296 | $1944 | $2593 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.148 | $1481 | $2222 | $2963 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.167 | $1667 | $2500 | $3333 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.185 | $1852 | $2778 | $3704 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 27 MPG | 26 | 28 | $2850 | 197 | 1 |
| 2020 | 27 MPG | 26 | 28 | $2850 | 197 | 1 |
| 2019 | 25 MPG | 24 | 27 | $3100 | 216 | 1 |
| 2018 | 27 MPG | 26 | 30 | $2850 | 187 | 1 |
| 2017 | 25 MPG | 24 | 27 | $3100 | 238 | 1 |
| 2016 | 25 MPG | 24 | 27 | $3100 | 241 | 1 |
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 105 standard sport utility vehicle 4wd models tracked here, the Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV ranks 7 on current figures, against a class average of 19.6 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Lexus RX 450h L AWD (29), Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD LE Plus (29), Lexus RX 450h AWD (30), Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD (35), Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD LTD/PLAT (35).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 197 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 3.0 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV get?
The 2021 Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV is rated at 27 MPG combined by the EPA — 26 city and 28 highway. Across all 6 model years in the database it averages 26 MPG, ranging from 25 to 27 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV cost in fuel per year?
At 27 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 556 gallons — roughly $1778 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.119 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2021 model is $2850.
Has the Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 25 MPG in 2016 to 27 in 2021 — an improvement of 2 MPG, or 8% across 6 model years.
Is the Volvo XC90 AWD PHEV efficient for its class?
It ranks 7 of 105 in the Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD class on current figures, against a class average of 19.6 MPG. That is 7.4 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.