The 2016 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible achieves 18 MPG combined. Those drawn to its supercharged V8 and exciting driving experience probably won’t be swayed by this figure. This car is an indulgence, a statement, a four-wheeled dose of adrenaline for drivers who want thrills more than savings, The F-Type R buyer is after a feeling, and that feeling uses gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway for the F-Type R. Repeated acceleration from stops and idling in traffic cause the engine to consume more fuel in the city, even though the supercharger provides little benefit in these conditions. The highway number shows some improvement. The engine is less stressed at a steady cruise, and the car’s aerodynamic design helps. Expecting much more than 23 MPG on long highway trips will likely be disappointing, as the available power is always tempting to use. Driving style strongly influences observed fuel economy. A light foot can improve the numbers slightly, but the V8’s sound and responsiveness often win over fuel-saving intentions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,200 for the 2016 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation also assumes gasoline at the national average price. This number is a general guide, but individual costs will vary based on local fuel prices and driving habits. Frequent spirited driving or stop-and-go traffic will likely exceed this annual fuel cost significantly. More relaxed driving styles and longer commutes on open roads might see a slightly lower annual figure.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the F-Type R Convertible often falls short of the EPA figures. Owners report a range, but consistently achieving the EPA’s 23 MPG highway figure needs restraint. More often, drivers report averages closer to the combined MPG figure, or even slightly below it, especially with frequent use of the car’s performance. The supercharged V8 encourages aggressive acceleration, and its tempting soundtrack makes it hard to resist. Don’t expect Prius-like efficiency from this sports car. Check out F TYPE MPG across all years to compare model years.

How it compares

The F-Type R’s fuel economy is within the expected range of other high-performance convertibles. A 2016 Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, with its smaller, turbocharged engine, gets around 22 MPG combined, according to the EPA. The BMW M4 Convertible, with its turbocharged inline-six, reports around 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, with a turbocharged V8, has similar fuel consumption to the F-Type. The trade-off is simple: more performance requires more fuel. The F-Type R buyer accepts that fuel efficiency is sacrificed for raw power and an exciting driving experience. If they wanted a fuel-sipping convertible, they wouldn’t be considering a supercharged V8. Find all Jaguar fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Squeezing maximum MPG from a supercharged V8 convertible might seem strange, but some strategies can minimize fuel consumption. Drive smoothly and deliberately, avoiding sudden acceleration and hard braking. The V8 responds well to smooth inputs, and gentle acceleration can significantly improve fuel efficiency, especially in city driving. Anticipate traffic flow to minimize stop-and-go situations, as frequent acceleration uses significant fuel.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels. This is a simple way to improve fuel economy.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight increases the energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any non-essential items from the trunk or passenger area. This is important if you often drive spiritedly where performance matters.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, and improves fuel efficiency. This is effective on long highway trips where speed fluctuations are minimal.