Economical driving

Updated 18/05/2020

A more economical driving style can contribute to lower fuel consumption.

Before driving

If possible, precondition the car before driving.
If preconditioning is not possible when it is cold outside, use seat heating and steering wheel heating first of all. Avoid warming up the whole of the interior which takes energy from the starter battery.
Avoid warming up the car using idling.
Choice of tyres and tyre pressure can affect energy consumption - seek advice on suitable tyres from an authorised Volvo dealer.
Remove unnecessary items from the car - the greater the load the higher the consumption.

Activate drive mode Eco.
Use gear position D as often as possible1.
When driving with manual gear changing, drive in the highest gear possible. Use the gear shift indicator.
Drive at a steady speed and keep a good distance to other vehicles and objects in order to avoid braking, use engine braking if possible.
High speed results in increased energy consumption since the wind resistance increases with speed.
In a cold climate, reduce electrical heating of windows, mirrors, seats and steering wheel, if possible.
Avoid driving with open windows.
Do not hold the car stationary on a hill with the accelerator pedal. Instead, activate the function for automatic braking when stationary.
Use the trip computer to see instantaneous fuel consumption.

Never switch off the engine while moving, such as downhill, this deactivates important systems such as the power steering and brake servo.