The 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport, equipped with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy rating of 21 MPG. This figure, while not class-leading, should be viewed in light of what the Discovery Sport offers: on-road comfort, off-road capability, and brand appeal. Buyers generally seek a versatile vehicle for daily commutes and weekend adventures that also looks good, and don’t always prioritize fuel efficiency above everything else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Discovery Sport will get 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The lower city rating reflects stop-and-go traffic where the engine idles more and accelerates from a standstill. The automatic (S9) transmission, while generally smooth and responsive, isn’t geared for maximum fuel savings in urban environments. On the open road, the 24 MPG highway figure is more attainable, especially when using cruise control and maintaining a steady speed. This is mainly because the transmission can cruise in higher gears, reducing engine RPMs and fuel consumption. The Discovery Sport is built to handle more than just smooth asphalt. Its all-wheel-drive system adds weight and complexity, both factors affecting fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for operating the 2020 Land Rover Discovery Sport at $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and fuel prices in your area. Still, the $2,750 provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Discovery Sport’s fuel expenses to those of other vehicles in its class. Some owners will likely exceed this figure because of the vehicle’s capabilities and the opportunity to explore off-road trails.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners report figures mirroring the EPA data, but some see slightly lower numbers, especially those who frequently use the vehicle’s off-road features or drive mainly in congested city conditions. Aggressive driving, including frequent hard acceleration, will also negatively impact fuel economy. Prolonged idling, especially in cold weather, will consume fuel without adding to the miles traveled. For typical consumption, explore ROVER MPG across all years for this model.

How it compares

The Discovery Sport faces competition in the compact luxury SUV segment. The 2020 BMW X3 sDrive30i (RWD) achieves 25 MPG combined, while the AWD version loses only 1 MPG in combined figures. Thus, it easily outdoes the Disco Sport in fuel economy, and offers similar levels of luxury. The Acura RDX, another choice, manages around 23 MPG combined. The Volvo XC60 T5, a stylish and capable competitor, delivers 24 MPG combined. While the Discovery Sport might not win on fuel economy, its blend of reliability, luxury, and Land Rover heritage justifies its standing among those who value its off-road ability and brand. If the MPG is a concern, check all Land fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and high speeds significantly reduce fuel economy. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel, especially in modern engines. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Discovery Sport is equipped with an automatic start/stop system, so use it in traffic. Remember that this can affect the vehicle’s battery.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools. Even a few extra pounds can add up over time and impact your MPG.

Service your vehicle regularly. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Regular maintenance helps optimize fuel economy and extend the life of your engine.