19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for efficiency, but for the 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L 6-cyl, it’s a figure many buyers readily accept. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for its economy; it’s a statement. It’s a vehicle bought by those who prioritize luxury, capability, and presence over frugality. Accepting less-than-stellar fuel economy is the price of admission to the Range Rover Sport lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Range Rover Sport, equipped with the 3.0L six-cylinder and eight-speed automatic, are 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the vehicle’s considerable weight and the demands of its all-wheel-drive system. The supercharged engine’s power delivery, while smooth and responsive, also contributes to the less-than-stellar numbers. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, will invariably yield results closer to the 17 MPG estimate, while steady highway cruising may allow you to approach, or even slightly exceed, the 23 MPG figure. Don’t expect miracles, though, especially if engaging the Sport mode frequently, as it encourages more aggressive throttle response and higher RPMs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that you’ll spend $3,050 per year fueling your 2018 Land Rover Range Rover Sport 3.0L. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind this is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. For example, someone who mostly drives in congested city traffic will likely spend significantly more than someone who primarily does highway driving. Premium fuel is recommended, if not required, potentially increasing your per-gallon cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Owners report figures that fluctuate based on driving style, terrain, and load. Aggressive driving, frequent use of the vehicle’s off-road capabilities, or carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, careful driving and prioritizing highway miles can improve your numbers. But don’t expect to achieve dramatically better figures than the EPA estimates; physics and the Range Rover Sport’s inherent nature are hard to overcome. Checking out all Land fuel economy data is a great way to compare its figures to other Land Rover vehicles.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2018 Range Rover Sport’s fuel economy is generally on the lower end. For example, the BMW X5 xDrive35i, with a similar inline-six engine, often achieves a combined MPG in the low 20s. The Porsche Cayenne, depending on the specific engine configuration, can offer slightly better or similar fuel economy. Even the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 typically sees similar or slightly better MPG figures. The Acura MDX, while not a direct competitor in terms of luxury and off-road ability, boasts noticeably better fuel economy, often exceeding 25 MPG combined, albeit with a less powerful engine and a different driving experience. This difference highlights the trade-off for the Range Rover Sport’s distinctive blend of luxury, performance, and all-terrain capability. Remember to check ROVER MPG across all years for comparison to find a model year that fits your needs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The supercharged engine is responsive, making it easy to dip into the power, but doing so frequently will significantly reduce your fuel economy. Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow will help keep fuel consumption in check.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure as indicated on the door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your Range Rover Sport adds to the load the engine has to manage, lowering fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to improve your MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on long highway stretches can help optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control helps minimize fluctuations in speed, leading to more efficient fuel use.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to improve fuel efficiency. While the results may vary, some additives can help clean fuel injectors and improve combustion, potentially leading to a slight improvement in MPG. Research different additives and choose a reputable brand.