17 MPG combined is a cold, hard truth for anyone considering the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Velar with the supercharged 5.0L V8. Efficiency isn’t the goal here. This Velar is for those who prioritize instant power and a distinctive exhaust note over trips to the gas station. It’s a visceral experience draped in a modern design. Buyers accepting the Velar 5.0L understand, and largely accept, the compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure is plausible if you drive with extreme restraint, but the temptation to unleash that supercharged V8 at every green light is ever-present. Expect that number to dip if you enjoy the soundtrack and the surge of acceleration. On the highway, achieving 20 MPG is possible, but only if you maintain a steady cruise. Over 75 MPH, aerodynamics work against you, and fuel economy degrades rapidly. The eight-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and responsive, but its programming favors performance, holding lower gears longer to keep the engine in its powerband. This contributes to the overall thirst, even at steady state.

Annual fuel cost

Prepare for an annual fuel bill significantly above average. The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400, which is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a substantial figure and something every potential Velar 5.0L owner should factor into their budget. This estimate assumes a roughly even split between city and highway driving, so adjust your expectations accordingly if your driving is primarily urban or consistently high-speed.

Real-world expectations

Those who have spent significant time behind the wheel of the Velar 5.0L often report combined fuel economy figures hovering around 15 MPG in mixed driving. Some hypermilers might squeeze out a bit more, but realistically, if you’re seeing numbers consistently above the EPA combined rating, you’re likely not enjoying the full potential of the vehicle. Understand that “potential” comes at a price.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the Velar 5.0L places it near the bottom of the luxury SUV class. A BMW X5 M50i, with its twin-turbo V8, manages a slightly better 18 MPG combined. Even the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, delivering significantly more power, achieves around 17 MPG combined. Both of these competitors show that having a powerful engine doesn’t necessarily mean accepting the worst fuel economy possible. A Porsche Cayenne Turbo, another performance-focused SUV, posts 17 MPG combined. For some buyers, those single MPG increases can make a difference, even when cross-shopping vehicles at this price point. It’s less about saving money and more about principle, extracting the most efficiency possible from a powerful machine. You can find all Land fuel economy data in our research database.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Velar 5.0L will never be confused with a Prius, there are strategies to minimize fuel consumption. Adopt a smooth driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions require significantly more fuel to regain momentum.

Take advantage of the Velar’s drive modes. Experiment with the “Eco” or “Comfort” settings, which remap the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. These modes will dull the responsiveness of the engine, but they can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption, especially on longer journeys.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly, particularly during temperature changes, as pressure can fluctuate.

Minimize unnecessary weight inside the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the overall load the engine has to work to move. Remove any items you don’t need to improve fuel efficiency. Explore more data on ROVER MPG across all years.

Consider how the vehicle is used. Short trips with a cold engine are less efficient than longer trips where the engine reaches optimal operating temperature. Whenever possible, combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts and maximize fuel efficiency.