Eighteen MPG combined isn’t exactly “eco-friendly,” but for the 2018 Land Rover Range Rover 5.0L V8, it’s a known quantity, a cost of admission. This isn’t a vehicle purchased by those prioritizing lower fuel costs. It’s a declaration of capability, luxury, and off-road prowess, and the V8 engine’s thirst for premium unleaded is simply part of the deal for buyers who value these attributes above all else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Range Rover V8 at 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of moving a heavy, full-time four-wheel-drive vehicle with a powerful engine. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration quickly diminish fuel economy. On the open road, the Range Rover fares slightly better, but the aerodynamic profile of a brick combined with that ever-present all-wheel-drive system means it will never sip fuel like a sedan.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Land Rover Range Rover 5.0L V8 at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an estimated 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the EPA’s fuel economy estimates and a national average fuel price. It’s a considerable sum, certainly placing this Range Rover in the higher echelon of annual fuel expenses. Potential buyers should factor this cost directly into their overall budget for vehicle ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2018 Range Rover V8 can vary significantly based on driving style, terrain, and load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-roading, or consistently carrying heavy loads will all decrease fuel efficiency. Conversely, a gentle driving style and primarily highway use might yield slightly better results, though matching the EPA’s 21 MPG highway figure consistently will be challenging. Expect figures closer to the EPA estimates, and possibly slightly lower in mixed driving conditions.

Some drivers may wish to review all Land fuel economy data to get a sense of other models’ consumption, and compare it to their own driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Range Rover V8’s fuel economy is predictably similar to other large, luxurious, and powerful SUVs. The BMW X5 M, for example, with its high-performance V8, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe fares similarly, coming in around 17 MPG combined. Even SUVs with smaller, turbocharged engines sometimes struggle to match the Range Rover’s thirst when equipped with performance packages and all-wheel drive.

A Porsche Cayenne S might achieve around 19 MPG combined, but opting for the Turbo variant will bring that figure down closer to the Range Rover. Owners of this model might also consider looking at ROVER MPG across all years to get a better grasp of the brand’s overall efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its inherent inefficiencies, there are steps owners can take to improve fuel economy in their 2018 Range Rover V8. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The supercharged V8 is eager to deliver power, but a gentler touch on the throttle can significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check tire pressures and maintain the recommended levels specified on the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize unnecessary weight inside the vehicle. Carrying excessive cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential, especially heavy objects.

Consider using the vehicle’s Eco mode, if equipped. While it may reduce performance slightly, Eco mode can optimize engine and transmission settings for improved fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions, helping to save fuel over time.

Limit idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If waiting for more than a minute, it is more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it.