'05 vs. '06 EPA MPG Ratings

[Jack]

Just noticed that the US EPA mileage ratings for the XC70 improved from 18/24 to 19/26 between the 2005 and 2006 model year vehicles. As far as I know the only difference is the "instant traction" Haldex unit. Could this be responsible for the increase? Anyone have enough experience with before and after models to be able to comment?

[gibbons]

No experience comparing the two, but I consistently get 24mpg each tank on ours (with free rolling WR tires). I think that's amazing for an AWD car of it's size and capability, plus it's reasonably quick. Our Subaru and previous Infiniti I30 were good for only 20mpg.

[vtie]

I spotted that difference a while ago in the brochures, and asked my dealer about it. The answer was that they slightly changed the measuring conditions. Previously, the mileage and performance was measured with a partially loaded loaded car, now they measure it with an almost empty tank, a single driver, etc... I don't know if that is the real reason, but that is what they told me.

[littlewaywelt]

Just noticed that the US EPA mileage ratings for the XC70 improved from 18/24 to 19/26 between the 2005 and 2006 model year vehicles. As far as I know the only difference is the "instant traction" Haldex unit. Could this be responsible for the increase? Anyone have enough experience with before and after models to be able to comment?

Interesting.
On our 05 we get 17 city and 26 highway.
The instant traction shouldn't make a difference. That just preloads torque to the rear wheels. There haven't been any aero changes, so something may have been done with the engine, though I don't recall any mention of it.