18 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover LWB 5.0L V8 any awards for thriftiness. But let’s be honest: nobody shelling out six figures for a stretched Range Rover is prioritizing lower fuel costs. This is a vehicle bought for its sheer presence, its luxurious appointments, its go-anywhere capability, and the powerful driving experience delivered by its potent V8. 18 MPG is simply the price of admission to a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Range Rover LWB V8 at 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the big engine works harder to get the heavy SUV moving, with frequent braking dissipating energy. The highway number improves as the vehicle settles into a more consistent cruising speed, allowing the 8-speed automatic transmission (S8) to optimize gear selection for efficiency. Still, even on the open road, aerodynamic drag and the vehicle’s considerable weight work against fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Land Rover Range Rover LWB 5.0L V8 at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of gas you buy, and fluctuations in fuel prices. However, it provides a standardized benchmark for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles. Range Rover LWB owners should budget generously for gasoline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact your MPG. Careful and considered driving, combined with longer journeys at consistent speeds, may allow you to approach or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates.

This vehicle is typically owned by those who value performance capabilities and thus tend to drive less fuel-consciously, though even hypermiling will only bring limited gains.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the Range Rover LWB V8 is predictably less impressive than its competitors with smaller engines or hybrid powertrains. For example, the BMW X7 xDrive40i, with its inline-six engine, manages an EPA-rated 21 MPG combined. Even the Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, another large luxury SUV, achieves a combined 20 MPG. However, neither of those SUVs delivers the same level of off-road capability or the same opulent character as the Range Rover. Those looking for all Land Rover fuel economy data will find a wide range of models to choose from for comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2020 Range Rover LWB V8 isn’t designed for maximum fuel efficiency, there are still steps you can take to improve your MPG. Avoiding excessive idling is critical. The big V8 consumes a significant amount of fuel even when stationary, so turning off the engine during prolonged stops will save fuel over time.

Gentle acceleration and braking can also make a noticeable difference. The Range Rover’s responsive throttle can tempt drivers to accelerate hard, but smooth and progressive inputs will minimize fuel consumption. Similarly, anticipate traffic flow and avoid harsh braking whenever possible. Check out ROVER MPG across all years to see if other model years provide better fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is also essential. Ensuring your tires are properly inflated, and that the engine is running optimally through regular servicing, can help maintain fuel efficiency. A well-maintained engine uses fuel more effectively than one that is neglected.

Consider using the vehicle’s Eco mode, if equipped. This mode typically adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency, although it will somewhat reduce performance. For long highway drives, use cruise control to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking.