18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but it’s the fuel economy you accept when you purchase a 2024 Land Rover Defender 130 P300 MHEV. This isn’t a vehicle bought by those prioritizing efficiency. This is a vehicle bought by individuals and families who need serious passenger and cargo capacity, undeniable off-road capability, and the Land Rover badge. The P300’s mild-hybrid system helps, but moving this much metal and glass comes at a cost.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Defender 130 P300 break down to 17 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Defender’s weight and large frontal area work against it. The highway figure offers a slight improvement, but the Defender’s boxy shape is not aerodynamically optimized for high-speed cruising. Expect to see those highway numbers drop if you’re frequently driving at speeds well above 70 MPH, especially with a roof rack or loaded cargo carrier.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Land Rover Defender 130 P300 MHEV is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Premium fuel is recommended, which will increase costs slightly compared to vehicles that can run on regular unleaded.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary considerably. Expect your MPG to drop significantly if you regularly engage in off-road driving. Frequent towing or hauling heavy loads will also have a negative impact. If you primarily use your Defender 130 for commuting on relatively flat terrain and maintain a moderate driving style, you might see numbers closer to the EPA estimates. A lead foot will absolutely destroy your fuel economy.

How it compares

Consider the competition. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L with its V6 (non-hybrid) manages around 22 MPG combined, a significant improvement. The Ford Expedition, another large SUV, clocks in around 17 MPG combined, putting it nearly on par with the Defender 130. A BMW X7 xDrive40i comes in around 21 MPG combined, offering similar luxury and passenger space with better fuel economy. The Defender 130 buyer accepts the lower MPG because they value the Defender’s specific blend of capability, design, and image above all else, things that other vehicles in the class simply don’t offer to the same degree. It is helpful to look at all Land fuel economy data when considering the purchase.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Defender 130’s Eco driving mode. While it might slightly reduce throttle response, it can help you conserve fuel in everyday driving situations. It optimizes shift points and other engine parameters to prioritize efficiency.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Consult the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and ensure your tires are properly inflated.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without getting you anywhere. Also, keep your speed down. Exceeding 70MPH has a real detrimental effect on the boxy Defender.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle. Extra weight reduces fuel economy. Do you really need to keep that shovel and recovery gear in the back if you’re just driving to the grocery store?

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine errands into a single trip to avoid multiple cold starts. Cold starts are particularly fuel-intensive. Also, make use of the navigation system to find the most direct routes and avoid traffic congestion. Review all ROVER MPG across all years to see if other models might be better.