The EPA rates the 2023 Land Rover New Range Rover Sport P440e PHEV at 21 MPG combined, a figure that needs some explanation. This isn’t about hypermiling or chasing Prius-like efficiency; it’s about blending performance, luxury, and using less gas for a specific breed of SUV owner. These buyers aren’t prioritizing fuel economy above all else. They demand a premium driving experience, off-road capability, and the cachet of the Range Rover badge. The P440e’s PHEV system is simply a bonus, offering electric-only driving for shorter trips and supplementing the character of a Range Rover Sport.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Range Rover Sport P440e’s fuel consumption into 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the heavy curb weight and frequent acceleration consume more fuel. However, the electric motor helps by providing instant torque and reducing the need for the gasoline engine to work as hard during low-speed maneuvers. On the highway, the 24 MPG figure is more respectable, but still indicative of a vehicle designed for confident cruising rather than outright economy. The eight-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance are ever-present challenges for a vehicle of this size and shape.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Land Rover New Range Rover Sport P440e PHEV is estimated at $2,750. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage split between city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. While this provides a standardized benchmark for comparison, individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of time spent driving in electric-only mode. Owners who frequently charge and use the electric motor will likely see significantly lower fuel costs than those who primarily rely on the gasoline engine.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy can change. The Range Rover Sport P440e’s PHEV system adds complexity. Drivers who diligently plug in and maximize electric-only range for daily commutes will see the biggest differences from the EPA figures, potentially achieving much better overall fuel economy. Conversely, those who rarely charge or frequently drive aggressively will likely see figures closer to, or even below, the EPA estimates. Driving style, terrain, and weather conditions also play roles in determining the actual fuel consumption. ROVER MPG across all years highlights this potential variance, with older models showing a wider range of real-world data.

How it compares

The Range Rover Sport P440e doesn’t compete directly with economy-focused hybrids. Instead, its rivals are other performance-oriented luxury SUVs. The BMW X5 xDrive45e, another PHEV SUV, delivers a slightly better combined MPG of 22, with a significantly higher electric-only range. The Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid posts similar combined MPG figures around 21 to 22 MPG, but offers even greater performance. Even pure gasoline-powered competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, with its 23 MPG combined, demonstrate that the Range Rover Sport’s fuel economy trails some of its peers. However, the Land Rover offers off-road capability and brand prestige that differentiates it. If off-road capability is not as important, you might want to explore all Land fuel economy data for other options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the electric-only mode whenever possible. The P440e’s electric range allows for emission-free commuting and errands. Planning trips to drive electric can significantly reduce your reliance on gasoline, resulting in savings.

Drive smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume more fuel and deplete the battery faster. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to optimize fuel efficiency and extend the electric range.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly check and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure levels to ensure efficiency. Consider using low rolling resistance tires when it’s time to replace them.

Carrying excess cargo in the vehicle increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items to reduce the load and improve efficiency, especially when driving in electric-only mode.

The P440e uses regenerative braking to capture energy. Become familiar with the system and use it to your advantage by gently lifting off the accelerator pedal and allowing the vehicle to slow naturally which will help to recharge the battery and extend the electric range.