16 MPG combined isn’t amazing gas mileage, but it’s expected when driving a 2020 Land Rover Range Rover SVA with a supercharged 5.0L V8. It’s not a fuel-sipping commuter car, it’s a statement piece with immense power, opulent luxury, and go-anywhere capability. The individual who chooses this Range Rover understands the trade-offs and accepts them willingly.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Range Rover SVA at 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of hauling a vehicle weighing well over 5,000 pounds with a powerful, but thirsty, engine. Start-stop systems are used to save fuel in urban environments, but the supercharged V8 is always eager to unleash its potential, especially when accelerating quickly. Highway driving provides a slight improvement due to more consistent speeds, but the Range Rover’s aerodynamic profile and hefty weight ultimately limit its fuel-sipping possibilities.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover SVA is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel, which is typically recommended to deliver the advertised power and performance, could increase this cost even more. Buyers should factor this expense into their overall budget, acknowledging it’s a significant cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly based on driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and hilly terrain will all contribute to lower MPG figures. Conversely, smooth driving on flat, open highways may yield results closer to the EPA’s highway estimate. Owners should not be surprised to see average fuel economy fluctuate between 12 and 18 MPG, depending on their specific driving patterns. See all all Land fuel economy data here.

How it compares

The Range Rover SVA exists in a class of its own, but comparing it to other large luxury SUVs is useful. A BMW X7 M50i, with its twin-turbo V8, manages around 18 MPG combined. The Cadillac Escalade, while less performance oriented, achieves similar numbers with its V8 engine. These differences, while seemingly small percentages per gallon per week, can add up significantly over the years of ownership. However, buyers of the Range Rover SVA aren’t solely focused on fuel economy. They prioritize the unique combination of performance, luxury, and brand cachet that only a Range Rover can offer. See the full ROVER MPG across all years page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Range Rover SVA may not be known for its fuel efficiency, there are steps owners can take to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as the supercharged V8 responds enthusiastically to throttle input, leading to increased fuel usage. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the tire pressure to optimize efficiency and prolong tire life.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying excessive cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, further impacting fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, as engine idling consumes fuel more quickly. Avoiding peak traffic hours can also help improve fuel economy by reducing stop-and-go driving.

Consider using a fuel tracking app to monitor your MPG and identify any changes in driving habits that may be affecting fuel economy. This can help you make adjustments and optimize your driving style for better efficiency.