19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, and it’s certainly not the primary reason anyone buys a 2015 Jaguar XJL AWD with the 3.0L supercharged V6. This car exists for a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes space, luxury, and a distinctly British sense of style above all else. They want a comfortable, spacious sedan for long drives and the occasional chauffeured experience. Fuel economy? It’s a consideration, but it’s further down the list than the supple leather and the effortless power delivery.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway reflect the reality of driving a long-wheelbase sedan with a powerful engine and all-wheel drive. The city figure is particularly relevant, as the XJL’s extended length can make it less nimble in urban environments, leading to more stop-and-go traffic which negatively impacts fuel consumption. On the open road, however, the supercharged V6 settles into a relaxed cruise, and the 8-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize efficiency at higher speeds. Drivers who primarily use the XJL for highway travel will likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimate, while those in urban settings should expect the lower end of the range, or even slightly below.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Jaguar XJL AWD 3.0L at $3,050. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of estimation. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Although premium fuel is recommended, sacrificing a slight hit to performance by using regular gasoline is not worth worrying about fuel bill wise.

Real-world expectations

Drivers willing to live with the XJL’s thirst should still manage fuel economy better than expected by using the vehicle’s “Eco” driving modes. These modes, that can be switched via a large console-mounted button, usually dial back throttle responsiveness and make other small adjustments to maximize efficiency. The XJL is equipped to provide data on your driving habits in real time via the vehicle’s built-in display, so you can monitor your miles per gallon as you drive.

How it compares

The 2015 XJL’s fuel economy positions it squarely in the middle of its competitive set, and perhaps slightly below average. The BMW 740i xDrive, for instance, achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic is similarly rated. Even the Audi A8, known for its advanced technology, offers comparable figures in its quattro all-wheel-drive configuration. These are all large, luxurious sedans with powerful engines and all-wheel drive systems. The BMW with 22 MPG will save you money at the pump, but you won’t get the same classic luxury of the Jaguar. The buyer of the XJL is making a conscious trade-off: they prioritize the qualities of the Jaguar brand and design, accepting a slightly lower fuel economy rating in exchange. You can find XJL MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the XJL isn’t designed to be a fuel-sipping hybrid, there are steps you can take to improve its efficiency. Avoid hard acceleration, especially from a standstill. The supercharged V6 is eager to unleash its power, but a gentle foot on the accelerator will make a noticeable difference over the long haul.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and braking, which are major contributors to poor fuel economy. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving both fuel efficiency and handling, so be sure to check your tire pressures regularly.

Consider your drive mode. While the “Dynamic” mode is tempting for spirited driving, stick to “Normal” or “Eco” for everyday commuting. These modes will alter the throttle response and shift points, encouraging more fuel-efficient driving habits.

Minimize 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 any benefit. Of course, it might be hard to turn off the engine when you need to keep your climate control active, try to minimize idling in general if you need to keep the climate control running.

Remember that regular maintenance is key to optimal fuel efficiency. Keep the engine properly tuned, replace air filters as recommended, and use the correct type of oil. A well-maintained engine will always run more efficiently than one that has been neglected. Be sure to look through all Jaguar fuel economy data at FuelEconomyHub.