23 MPG combined is what you get with Range Rover Evoque Convertible ownership. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for saving fuel; it’s a lifestyle statement, a head-turner, and a uniquely impractical offering that values open-air enjoyment and distinctive style above all else. Buyers of the Evoque Convertible understand and generally accept that they’re sacrificing fuel economy for a vehicle unlike anything else. They are drawn to its bold design, the Land Rover brand, and the novelty of a convertible SUV. For them, fuel costs are less important than the joy and attention this unconventional vehicle provides.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Range Rover Evoque Convertible gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the extra burden on the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine as it navigates stop-and-go traffic. The engine has to work harder to overcome the vehicle’s weight, which is considerable for its size, and the automatic transmission shifts frequently, affecting efficiency. On the highway, the Evoque Convertible fares better, with that eight-speed automatic allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. Its convertible design prevents it from achieving truly impressive highway fuel economy numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Range Rover Evoque Convertible at $2,500. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of the calculation. Individual costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven annually. If you live in an area with higher-than-average fuel prices or drive significantly more than 15,000 miles per year, expect to spend considerably more on fuel.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Evoque Convertible often falls short. Owners report MPG figures in the high teens in the city and low to mid-20s on the highway, especially with enthusiastic driving. The vehicle’s weight, the added drag from top-down driving, and the temptation to use the turbocharger can all contribute to lower-than-expected fuel efficiency. Those drawn to the vehicle usually expect this tradeoff and are not overly concerned about the actual running cost.

How it compares

The Evoque Convertible exists in a niche, but comparisons can be made to other compact luxury SUVs, even if they lack the open-air experience. For example, the BMW X1 with its 2.0L turbocharged engine achieves 25 MPG combined, offering better fuel efficiency while delivering comparable performance. Even the larger Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, rated at 24 MPG combined, gets better mileage than the Evoque Convertible. Looking at all Land fuel economy data you can easily see that, on average, the Evoque is one of their more economical models. But if you broaden the view to ROVER MPG across all years, you can see how models change in time. The Mini Cooper Convertible, while not an SUV, offers a similar open-air experience with a much more frugal 31 MPG combined rating. These comparisons highlight the fuel economy penalty paid for the Evoque Convertible’s unique design and purpose, a penalty that buyers are often willing to accept.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimizing fuel efficiency requires attention, given the Evoque Convertible’s limitations. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these driving habits significantly impact fuel consumption. The turbocharger is quick to spool up providing good low-end acceleration, but it also draws more gas to do so.

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and keep them at the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Modern vehicles burn fuel even when stationary with the engine running. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, switch off the engine. Many newer cars have automatic stop-start which alleviates that hassle. The 2016 Evoque Convertible does not offer that feature.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration that can negatively affect fuel efficiency. This is especially important when driving with the top down, as the increased drag demands a more consistent throttle input.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, deposits can accumulate in the fuel injectors, impeding proper fuel delivery and reducing engine efficiency. A fuel additive can help remove these deposits and restore performance.