An 18 MPG combined rating isn’t going to win the 2019 Jaguar F-Pace 5.0L 8-cyl any fans at the Sierra Club. But let’s be honest: anyone spending serious money on the supercharged V8 version of Jaguar’s performance SUV isn’t prioritizing fuel efficiency. This machine is bought for its exhaust note and its ability to launch from 0-60 mph in a blistering 4.1 seconds. The fuel bill? It’s simply the cost.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates peg the F-Pace SVR at 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, is where that thirsty supercharged V8 really earns its reputation. Expect real-world numbers to dip even lower if you have a heavy foot, which is highly likely with 550 horsepower. Highway cruising offers a slightly more palatable figure, but even then, 21 MPG is not stellar. Careful throttle management and judicious use of cruise control will be the key to getting close to that number. Weather also plays a role. For those customers wondering about F PACE MPG across all years, there are some small changes year to year.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and the prevailing gas prices in your area. However, $3,200 provides a good benchmark for what you can expect to spend annually to keep this beast fed.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s numbers. Real-world MPG for the F-Pace SVR often falls short, particularly in mixed driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration and frequent use of the SVR’s performance capabilities will significantly impact fuel consumption. Owners who frequently engage “Dynamic” mode and relish the snarling exhaust note will likely see average MPG figures in the low teens. Conversely, a driver with a lighter foot and a predilection for highway driving might occasionally approach the EPA’s estimates for all Jaguar fuel economy data.

How it compares

The fuel economy shortcomings of the F-Pace SVR become even more apparent when compared to its competitors. The Porsche Macan Turbo, for example, manages a combined 19 MPG with its twin-turbo V6. Even the BMW X3 M, another high-performance SUV, achieves a marginally better 16 city / 19 highway / 17 combined MPG rating. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe, with its hand-built V8, lands in nearly the same territory as the Jaguar, suggesting 16 city / 22 highway / 19 combined MPG. These differences may seem small on paper, but they add up over time, both in terms of fuel costs and environmental impact. However, buyers in this segment are making a conscious tradeoff: horsepower versus a few MPGs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the F-Pace SVR is not inherently fuel-efficient, there are a few strategies to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The supercharged V8 is responsive, but every burst of speed comes at a cost. Gentle acceleration and smooth braking will significantly improve your mileage.

Use the driving modes effectively. While “Dynamic” mode is tempting, using “Eco” or “Comfort” modes during daily commutes can help to optimize fuel efficiency. These modes typically adjust throttle response, shift patterns, and other vehicle parameters to conserve fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently.

Maintain your vehicle properly. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, can help to ensure that your SVR is running at peak efficiency. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine.