19 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 any awards for lower fuel costs, but that figure is secondary to the strong image and go-anywhere capability this vehicle represents. Buyers aren’t cross-shopping with Prius drivers; they’re seeking a purposeful machine that prioritizes off-road prowess and unmistakable design. Fuel efficiency, while a consideration, is less important than the Defender’s core mission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 MHEV 3.0L 6-cyl reveal a split of 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Defender’s weight and permanent four-wheel-drive system demand more from the turbocharged inline-six engine. The highway figure is more respectable, suggesting the mild-hybrid system and smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission can contribute to improved fuel economy at consistent speeds. However, even on the open road, the brick-like aerodynamic profile of the Defender and its off-road tires will never rival a sleek sedan or crossover.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Land Rover Defender 110 is $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that fuel prices fluctuate and individual driving habits vary, so your actual fuel costs could be higher or lower. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-roading, and extended idling can all lead to increased fuel consumption, which is something Defender owners should keep in mind.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Defender owners tend to use their vehicles in a diverse range of conditions, from daily commuting to weekend adventures. Factors such as terrain, tire pressure, cargo weight, and driving style greatly affect fuel consumption. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA ratings in normal, everyday driving, but anticipate a dip when tackling challenging off-road trails or carrying heavy loads. The Defender’s onboard computer provides real-time fuel economy data, which can help drivers monitor their consumption and adjust their driving habits accordingly.

How it compares

Compared to other off-road-oriented SUVs, the Defender’s fuel economy lands in a specific niche. A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the 3.6L V6 typically achieves around 20 MPG combined, while a Toyota 4Runner averages closer to 17 MPG. A more luxurious competitor, the BMW X5 xDrive40i, boasts around 23 MPG combined, further highlighting the Defender’s trade-off between capability and efficiency. For those interested in all Land fuel economy data, it’s clear that the Defender prioritizes its off-road DNA over outright efficiency. The ROVER MPG across all years consistently shows a similar trend for this brand. The choice ultimately depends on whether a buyer is willing to sacrifice some fuel economy for the Defender’s unique combination of style, heritage, and all-terrain performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire pressure. The Defender’s large off-road tires require consistent monitoring. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to lower fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Higher pressure will reduce ride comfort, so finding the right balance is critical.

Limit aggressive driving. The turbocharged engine delivers ample power, but frequent hard acceleration and abrupt braking consume more fuel. Adopt a smoother driving style, anticipating traffic flow and accelerating gradually. This is especially important in city driving, where stop-and-go conditions can quickly deplete your fuel tank.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo increases the vehicle’s weight, which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and roof rack. The Defender’s spacious interior can easily become cluttered, so regularly decluttering can lead to small but noticeable improvements in fuel efficiency.

Use the mild-hybrid system. The Defender’s mild-hybrid system assists the engine during acceleration and enables start/stop functionality. Allow the system to operate optimally by avoiding aggressive throttle inputs and letting the engine shut off automatically at stoplights. This technology can contribute to fuel savings, especially in urban environments.

Plan your trips. Consider combining multiple errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which consume more fuel. Route optimization can also help avoid congested areas and reduce idling time. Strategic planning can make a difference, and will make you better acquainted with your local area as well.