The 2019 Jaguar F-Type S Convertible, with its supercharged 3.0L V6, achieves 22 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any awards for being green, and it isn’t meant to. Instead, this car is for visceral thrills, head-turning style, and the intoxicating sound of its exhaust, not for conserving fuel. The F-Type S buyer accepts the fuel consumption as the price of admission for exhilarating open-top motoring.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, which makes up the 22 MPG combined rating. In stop-and-go city traffic, the supercharger works harder and the engine idles more. The 27 MPG highway figure is more respectable; the engine settles down at a steady cruise and the aerodynamic shape helps efficiency. A long road trip won’t bankrupt you, but you’ll stop for premium fuel more often than in an economy-focused vehicle. Aggressive driving can reduce both city and highway figures, so a heavy foot impacts your wallet.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Jaguar F-Type S Convertible at $2,650. This calculation is based on 15,000 miles per year, using the average national price for premium gasoline at the time of testing. Your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving, the price of fuel where you live, and how much you drive in the city and on the highway. Engaging the F-Type’s performance capabilities frequently and mostly driving in urban areas will likely exceed this figure. Driving mainly on open highways for weekend trips might result in a slightly lower annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG can differ. Many F-Type S owners say their combined and city MPG is a little lower than the EPA estimates. The temptation to exploit the supercharged V6’s power is too strong to resist, which reduces fuel economy. Expect the window sticker to represent the best-case scenario. Things like traffic, weather, and tire pressure matter. A spirited driving style is the biggest factor affecting fuel consumption in this car. You’re paying for performance, which comes at a price.

How it compares

The F-Type S Convertible’s fuel economy puts it in a specific niche. A Porsche 718 Boxster S, a close competitor, gets a slightly better 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway with its turbocharged 2.5L engine. This might appeal to some, but the Boxster’s exhaust isn’t as evocative as the F-Type’s. A Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible offers similar or better highway MPG (up to 27 MPG) with its V8, but its city MPG is much worse. This gives the F-Type a relative advantage in cities, even with its supercharger. Those shopping around should view all Jaguar fuel economy data before making a decision. Fuel economy is less important than exclusivity, a beautiful design, and the Jaguar driving experience for this buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the F-Type S Convertible isn’t designed for hypermiling, you can still improve your fuel economy. Avoid accelerating and braking hard because the supercharger consumes the most fuel when you’re demanding maximum power, so smooth inputs help conserve fuel. Using the paddle shifters to upshift early can also keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Regular maintenance is important. Keep your tires inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. A clean air filter ensures the engine breathes easily. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule to keep the engine running well.

Consider your driving. Highway driving is more fuel-efficient than city driving, so plan your routes accordingly. Avoid congested areas when possible and choose routes with consistent speeds. Anticipating traffic and avoiding unnecessary braking can also help.

Resist the urge to use “Dynamic” mode all the time. This setting sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer, which decreases fuel efficiency. Use “Normal” or “Eco” mode for everyday driving to conserve fuel. Removing unneeded weight from the trunk can also help, however, slightly.