19 MPG combined is the hard truth about owning a 2020 Land Rover Defender 90 MHEV, especially with the charismatic but thirsty 3.0L inline-six. The number might deter buyers of other SUVs, but those who want the Defender’s mix of off-road ability, retro style, and strong presence often accept the compromise. This isn’t a vehicle for saving gas. It’s for trails, attracting attention, and showing a certain image, so fuel economy is less important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway show the Defender’s limits. The city MPG suffers because the vehicle is heavy, even the short-wheelbase 90, and stop-and-go driving strains the engine. The highway MPG is a little better, but the Defender’s boxy shape and off-road tires cause aerodynamic drag, preventing truly good fuel efficiency while cruising. The mild-hybrid system gives a small boost sometimes, but it doesn’t greatly change the Defender’s fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Land Rover Defender 90 MHEV will be $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your fuel costs may vary based on your driving habits, location, and gas prices. Driving hard will increase that number, while driving gently might improve it a bit. You can view all Land fuel economy data to see the brand’s economy standards.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA gives a standard, real-world MPG often differs, especially with a vehicle like the Defender. Drivers who often go off-road, tow things, or live in hilly areas will likely see fuel economy below the EPA estimates. On the other hand, those who mainly use the Defender for city commuting and highway driving might get numbers closer to, or even a little above, the EPA’s projections. Even so, big, consistent improvements are unlikely. Driving style is very important. A light touch on the gas pedal will always help, but the Defender’s weight and aerodynamics will always matter.

How it compares

The Defender’s fuel economy is typical for off-road SUVs. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the 2.0L turbo engine gets around 20 MPG combined, while the Toyota 4Runner, reliable but not efficient, gets about 17 MPG. Consider the BMW X5 xDrive40i. While different, it also appeals to affluent buyers; it gets 23 MPG combined, showing the fuel economy benefits of focusing on on-road performance and not extreme off-road ability. These differences are important to buyers comparing vehicles or wondering if the Defender’s character outweighs higher running costs. If you’re curious, compare ROVER MPG across all years with other similar vehicles.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The “Eco” mode, if equipped, adjusts vehicle systems for fuel efficiency, such as throttle response and shift patterns. It may reduce performance a bit, but it can save gas, especially on the highway. Take advantage of the Defender’s driving modes.

Keep the tires properly inflated. The Defender’s off-road tires are for durability and traction, not fuel economy. Making sure they have the right pressure minimizes rolling resistance and maximizes fuel efficiency without affecting safety.

Avoid idling. The auto start/stop system helps, but idling, especially when cold, wastes fuel. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Remove extra weight to reduce the load on the engine. This will improve fuel efficiency. This is especially important if you often carry heavy, unnecessary items.

Plan your routes. If you can, choose routes that avoid stop-and-go traffic and hills. Predicting traffic and choosing better routes can save fuel and reduce wear on your vehicle.