18 MPG combined is what you get when you drive a 2016 Jaguar XJL with its strong 5.0-liter V8. This isn’t a car purchased for its sensible fuel consumption figures. This is a car acquired for its opulent cabin, its commanding road presence, and the effortless surge of power that only a supercharged V8 can deliver. Owners accept the trade-off because they value these attributes far more than saving money at the pump.

City and highway performance

The XJL’s EPA estimates break down to 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirsty nature when frequently accelerating from a standstill and navigating stop-and-go traffic. The highway figure, while still not stellar, is more respectable, thanks to the smooth eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs. However, spirited driving, even on the open road, will quickly diminish that 23 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Jaguar XJL 5.0L V8 is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and prevailing gas prices in your area. Aggressive driving and premium fuel will certainly increase your expenses beyond this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing results, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Owners report numbers that fluctuate depending on their driving style and typical routes. Expect to see figures that cluster near the EPA estimates if you drive conservatively, but be prepared for lower numbers if you frequently exploit the engine’s performance potential. An XJL driver who enjoys the car’s capabilities will likely see real-world MPG values below the official ratings.

How it compares

The XJL’s fuel economy is low compared to some of its competitors. For instance, a 2016 BMW 750i with xDrive achieves a combined 20 MPG. Even a Mercedes-Benz S550 from the same year manages a combined rating of 20 MPG. The 2016 Audi A8 3.0T comes in at 22 MPG combined. These differences might be a consideration for buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency alongside luxury, but the XJL buyer is often more focused on the unique Jaguar experience than squeezing out every last mile per gallon. You can examine all Jaguar fuel economy data to see how different models compare.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use smooth acceleration techniques. The supercharged V8 is eager to respond to even a slight prod of the accelerator, but gentle and gradual acceleration will help conserve fuel. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, especially in city driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual.

Limit idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, such as when waiting in a parking lot or warming up the car on a cold morning, wastes fuel. If you anticipate a wait of more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly or mountainous terrain, as it can sometimes lead to engine laboring and decreased efficiency.

Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Ignoring maintenance can lead to decreased fuel economy and potentially more serious problems. If you love the look of the car, check out the XJL MPG across all years to see if a different model year is more in line with what you would like in a car.