20 MPG combined won’t win any fuel economy awards, and it doesn’t need to. That’s the reality for the 2015 Land Rover LR2, a compact luxury SUV designed for buyers who prioritize capability and brand recognition over efficiency. Forget the hybrid hype, this vehicle caters to a specific group willing to accept a trade-off: the prestige of the Land Rover badge and its all-weather ability in exchange for middling fuel economy. The LR2’s buyer isn’t seeking ultimate frugality, they’re seeking a reliable and refined vehicle that reflects a certain lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The LR2’s fuel economy splits out to 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects the toll stop-and-go traffic takes on the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The LR2’s weight also works against it in urban environments, requiring more energy to accelerate from a standstill. Highway driving, with its more consistent speeds, allows the engine to operate closer to its peak efficiency, as its automatic transmission clicks into its higher gears. The highway MPG is acceptable, but it could be a concern for frequent long-distance commuters on roads where speeds are near the higher limits of the highway range. Land Rover owners often value the assurance of all-wheel drive, even if it means more frequent stops at service stations.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Land Rover LR2 at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads on which you drive, local fuel costs, and how aggressively you use the throttle. Consistent lead-footed driving will push that $2,900 figure higher. The EPA’s number provides a useful benchmark, but it’s important to consider your own driving patterns to get a more accurate estimate of your potential fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the LR2 often mirrors the EPA estimates, although some owners report slightly lower numbers, especially in colder climates or areas with frequent hilly terrain and challenging driving conditions. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and idling in traffic all tend to drag down observed MPG. However, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, maintain consistent speeds, and minimize unnecessary idling are more likely to achieve or even slightly exceed the EPA’s figures.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2015 Land Rover LR2’s fuel economy is about average. A 2015 Acura RDX with its V6 engine managed 22 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage. The 2015 BMW X3 sDrive28i with its 2.0L turbo achieved a better 24 MPG combined when equipped with rear-wheel drive. This difference matters to the LR2 buyer who wants the Land Rover image without the worst-in-class fuel costs. For those interested in all Land fuel economy data or ROVER MPG across all years, detailed information is available to explore these comparisons further. The LR2’s AWD system, while beneficial for traction, does affect fuel economy when compared to similar front-wheel drive compact crossovers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration makes a difference, and it’s especially true with a small displacement turbocharged engine like the LR2’s. Avoid flooring the accelerator from a standstill, as forcing the turbo to spool aggressively consumes extra fuel. Gradual, measured throttle inputs allow the engine to operate more efficiently, particularly in city driving.

Regularly check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and thus increasing fuel consumption. Check the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your LR2.

Minimize unnecessary idling, especially in cold weather. Modern engines warm up most efficiently while driving, not while idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. Unless you’re waiting for someone or defrosting the windshield, turn off the engine when stopped for more than a minute or two.

Consider using cruise control on the highway when conditions allow. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency by reducing fluctuations in throttle position. Cruise control can be particularly beneficial on long, flat stretches of highway, as the LR2’s computer controls the throttle with adjustments too quick for you to match.