18 MPG combined isn’t winning any awards, but few prospective owners of a 2018 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible are likely to be cross-shopping with a Prius. This is a performance-oriented machine, a visceral roadster designed to reward its driver with exhilarating acceleration and a soundtrack to match. Fuel economy is less important than those attributes, and the F-Type R’s consumption figures are the price of admission to a very exclusive club. These are buyers who prioritize power, prestige, and driving pleasure above all else; they likely own other vehicles and use the F-Type primarily for weekend adventures or spirited solo drives.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 F-Type R AWD Convertible break down to 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic where the supercharged V8 is constantly asked to accelerate the car’s substantial weight. On the open road, with the engine operating at a more consistent speed, the highway figure illustrates that the F-Type R can achieve respectable mileage when driven conservatively. However, restraint is not exactly the car’s strength, nor is it the reason anyone buys it in the first place. Expect to see numbers closer to the city rating in mixed driving, especially if the car is driven with any enthusiasm whatsoever.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. This is a significant expense, one that puts the F-Type R firmly in the realm of luxury vehicle ownership where running costs are often secondary to the experience. Buyers will factor this cost into their overall budget.

Real-world expectations

Do EPA estimates hold up in the real world? Yes, and no. While the EPA’s testing methodology is standardized, individual driving habits and conditions greatly influence fuel economy. Someone who frequently exploits the F-Type R’s prodigious power will likely see figures below 18 MPG overall. Conversely, a driver who prioritizes efficiency and spends most of their time on the highway could potentially exceed 23 MPG. However, the temptation to unleash the supercharged V8 is ever-present, making it unlikely that many owners will consistently achieve the EPA’s highway rating. Check F TYPE MPG across all years to get a sense of how different F-Type models compare.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance convertibles, the 2018 Jaguar F-Type R AWD is roughly in line with expectations. The BMW M4 Convertible with its turbocharged inline-six achieves around 19 MPG combined, while the Mercedes-AMG C63 S Convertible, with its own V8, also hovers around the 18 MPG mark. Even Porsche’s 911 Carrera Cabriolet, arguably a more direct rival, achieves a similar 20 MPG combined in its base configuration with a manual transmission. The slightly less powerful but similarly styled Audi R8 Spyder with its V10 manages 16 MPG combined. Buyers who are genuinely concerned about fuel economy in this segment might consider the less powerful, four-cylinder F-Type, but then must ask if they are getting the full experience. If not, check all Jaguar fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle throttle inputs are crucial to maximizing fuel economy in the F-Type R. The supercharged V8 is exquisitely responsive, but its thirst increases dramatically above 3,000 RPM. Ease onto the accelerator and avoid sudden bursts of acceleration to conserve fuel, especially in city driving. Remember, the car is meant to be enjoyed, but mindful driving will make a difference.

Use the F-Type’s driving modes wisely, selecting ‘Eco’ mode will alter the engine mapping and throttle response, optimizing the powertrain for efficiency. While it diminishes the raw power somewhat, it can noticeably improve fuel economy in steady-state highway cruising and less spirited street driving. The car will still get up to speed, but the responsiveness will be a little more subdued.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is a simple but effective way to improve efficiency.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Excess weight forces the engine to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to reduce the load on the engine, even if it’s just a few extra pounds.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Constant braking and acceleration burn fuel at a much higher rate than steady-speed driving. Use navigation apps to identify potential congestion and choose alternative routes that minimize idling and stop-and-go conditions. A little planning can save fuel and reduce stress.