The 2020 Jaguar F-Type S Convertible offers open-air thrills, but you’ll get 22 MPG combined. Buyers drawn to this specific F-Type, with its supercharged 3.0L V6, aren’t prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else. They crave the visceral experience, the throaty growl, the sharp handling, the wind in their hair, and they understand that performance comes at a cost. This isn’t a daily commuter; it’s a weekend escape vehicle, a statement piece as much as a mode of transport.

City and highway performance

Broken down, the F-Type S Convertible achieves 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the supercharger can’t truly stretch its legs. The highway figure, while decent, reminds us that even with an eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), the F-Type is engineered for spirited driving, not hypermiling. Its relatively short gearing encourages downshifts and eager acceleration, impacting overall fuel consumption. Drivers will see that 27 MPG figure only when carefully adhering to speed limits and employing a light foot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2020 Jaguar F-Type S Convertible. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a 55/45 split between city and highway miles, using national average fuel prices. This amount will fluctuate depending on how and where you drive. More time spent in dense urban traffic, or a fondness for frequent full-throttle sprints, will certainly push that annual cost higher. Consistent highway cruising with careful throttle management will help bring the figure closer to the EPA’s estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG for the F-Type S Convertible often deviates. Owners who prioritize the driving experience and frequently use the engine’s full potential will likely see figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. However, drivers who primarily use the car for longer journeys, maintaining consistent speeds and avoiding aggressive acceleration, might achieve numbers closer to the EPA’s highway rating. Remember that driving style is a major factor affecting fuel economy, more so than in a hybrid or economy car.

How it compares

The F-Type’s fuel economy places it firmly in the middle of its competitive set, leaning towards the less efficient end. A Porsche 718 Boxster S, with its 2.5L turbocharged engine, achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. A BMW Z4 M40i, boasting 25 MPG combined, offers similar performance with a slight edge in efficiency. Considering that some competitors are more rewarding to drive than others, fuel economy is often a minor purchase criterion. Buyers of the F-Type Convertible know where this ranks among its competitors.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The F-Type’s supercharged engine responds instantly to throttle input. Avoid abrupt starts and maintain steady pressure on the accelerator to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption. Let the engine’s torque do the work rather than relying on aggressive downshifts.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize speed fluctuations. Cruise control helps optimize fuel efficiency by preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, especially on relatively flat stretches of road.

Regular maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Keep your tires properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. Ensure that the engine air filter is clean to allow for efficient airflow. Also, consider checking all Jaguar fuel economy data to compare historical vehicles.

Minimize idling time, especially during cold starts. Modern engines warm up quickly, so prolonged idling is unnecessary and wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, shut off the engine. However, consider disabling ‘Auto Start/Stop’ for optimal driving enjoyment, as it will reduce your MPG, however slightly.

Plan your routes strategically. Opting for routes with fewer stop-and-go situations, even if slightly longer, can improve your overall fuel efficiency. Avoid peak traffic hours whenever possible to minimize idling time and aggressive acceleration maneuvers. Check the F TYPE MPG across all years for a broader perspective.