Volvo XC90 FWD
25 MPG The 2021 Volvo XC90 FWD is EPA-rated at 25 MPG combined (21 city / 30 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 600 gallons, $1920 a year in fuel, or $0.128 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2003–2021 run it averages 20.2 MPG, improving by 7 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 | $0.100 | $1000 | $1500 | $2000 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.120 | $1200 | $1800 | $2400 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.128 | $1280 | $1920 | $2560 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.140 | $1400 | $2100 | $2800 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.160 | $1600 | $2400 | $3200 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.180 | $1800 | $2700 | $3600 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.200 | $2000 | $3000 | $4000 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 25 MPG | 21 | 30 | $3100 | 361 | 1 |
| 2020 | 25 MPG | 21 | 30 | $3100 | 361 | 1 |
| 2019 | 24 MPG | 21 | 29 | $3200 | 365 | 1 |
| 2018 | 25 MPG | 22 | 29 | $3100 | 353 | 1 |
| 2017 | 24 MPG | 22 | 26 | $3200 | 373 | 1 |
| 2016 | 24 MPG | 22 | 26 | $3200 | 373 | 1 |
| 2014 | 19 MPG | 16 | 24 | $3300 | 455 | 1 |
| 2013 | 19 MPG | 16 | 23 | $3300 | 472 | 1 |
| 2012 | 19 MPG | 16 | 23 | $3300 | 468 | 1 |
| 2011 | 18 MPG | 16 | 22 | $3450 | 494 | 1 |
| 2010 | 18 MPG | 15 | 22 | $3450 | 494 | 1 |
| 2009 | 17 MPG | 14 | 20 | $3650 | 523 | 1 |
| 2008 | 16 MPG | 14 | 20 | $4800 | 555 | 1 |
| 2007 | 17.5 MPG | 15 | 21 | $4425 | 508 | 2 |
| 2006 | 18 MPG | 15 | 21 | $4300 | 494 | 1 |
| 2005 | 18 MPG | 16 | 21 | $4300 | 494 | 1 |
| 2004 | 19 MPG | 16 | 22 | $4050 | 468 | 1 |
| 2003 | 18 MPG | 16 | 22 | $4300 | 494 | 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 70 sport utility vehicle - 2wd models tracked here, the Volvo XC90 FWD ranks 5 on current figures, against a class average of 20.7 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Toyota RAV4 2WD (26), Honda CR-V 2WD (29), Ford Escape Hybrid FWD (32), Toyota RAV4 EV (76).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 361 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 5.4 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Volvo XC90 FWD get?
The 2021 Volvo XC90 FWD is rated at 25 MPG combined by the EPA — 21 city and 30 highway. Across all 18 model years in the database it averages 20.2 MPG, ranging from 16 to 25 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Volvo XC90 FWD cost in fuel per year?
At 25 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 600 gallons — roughly $1920 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.128 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2021 model is $3100.
Has the Volvo XC90 FWD become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 18 MPG in 2003 to 25 in 2021 — an improvement of 7 MPG, or 39% across 18 model years.
Is the Volvo XC90 FWD efficient for its class?
It ranks 5 of 70 in the Sport Utility Vehicle - 2WD class on current figures, against a class average of 20.7 MPG. That is 4.3 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.