18 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Land Rover Range Rover 5.0L 8-cyl. It’s not going to win any fuel-sipping contests, but Range Rover owners accept this. These buyers prioritize a commanding presence, off-road capability, and a cabin covered in leather and wood over the latest hyper-efficient hybrid powertrain. They want the supercharged V8 rumble and the effortless surge of power that defines the Range Rover driving experience, and they are willing to pay for it at the pump.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the demands placed on a large, heavy SUV navigating stop-and-go traffic. The 5.0L V8, even with its technology, needs power to get the Range Rover moving from a standstill. The highway figure improves, but it’s still a reminder that aerodynamics are not this vehicle’s strong suit. The Range Rover’s upright design, essential for its commanding view and ample cargo space, creates a substantial wall of resistance at higher speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but the vehicle’s size has an impact.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Land Rover Range Rover 5.0L 8-cyl at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Range Rover’s running costs to other vehicles, but individual fuel expenses will vary based on driving habits, location, and gasoline prices. For Range Rover drivers, it’s simply another cost to consider, and is likely small compared to insurance, maintenance, and the occasional repair bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary a lot. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all push fuel consumption higher. Careful throttle control and mostly highway driving can yield results closer to the EPA’s highway estimate, or even slightly better. Potential buyers should be prepared for numbers that are close to the official ratings. Don’t expect hybrid-like efficiency from a supercharged V8 in a vehicle weighing well over two tons.

How it compares

The Range Rover is special in the luxury SUV market. The BMW X5 M50i, powered by a twin-turbo V8, gets 18 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, slightly better. The Mercedes-Benz GLE 580, with its mild-hybrid V8, doesn’t do much better. Even the Cadillac Escalade, with its large size, gets similar MPG numbers with the 6.2L V8. Alternatives like the Porsche Cayenne, with its powertrain options, offer better fuel economy in some configurations, but lack the Range Rover’s off-road capability and British character. Across all Land fuel economy data, the Range Rover sits near the least-efficient end. For more data you can review ROVER MPG across all years.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use the Range Rover’s driving modes. The “Eco” mode optimizes the engine and transmission for fuel efficiency. Using this mode can squeeze a bit more mileage out of each gallon, especially in steady-state highway driving.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressures regularly; they are found on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The supercharged V8 is responsive, but every hard acceleration burns extra fuel. Smooth inputs on the throttle and brakes save fuel and prolong the life of your brake pads.

Minimize idling. Leaving the engine running while parked wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.