16 MPG combined won’t win any fuel-sipping awards, and Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR buyers aren’t expecting it to. This is a performance SUV draped in luxury, a vehicle that prioritizes acceleration and a commanding presence over saving money at the pump. It is for drivers who value the engine sound and strong performance of a supercharged V8 more than they worry about filling up a little more often.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Range Rover Sport SVR 5.0L V8 achieves 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and idling that’s typical of urban environments. The SVR’s weight and the inherent inefficiency of a large displacement, supercharged engine consume a lot of fuel. On the open road, at a consistent cruising speed, the highway figure of 20 MPG is more attainable, but aggressive use of the accelerator will quickly bring that number down. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize efficiency when possible by providing smooth shifts, but physics prevail.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR is $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for the SVR’s supercharged engine, and the actual cost will vary depending on individual driving habits and fluctuations in gasoline prices. Drivers who frequently engage in spirited driving can expect to exceed that $3,600 estimate significantly.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Range Rover Sport SVR often falls short of the official numbers. The SVR’s intoxicating exhaust note and readily available power encourage drivers to tap into the supercharged V8’s potential, which inevitably leads to lower MPG. Expect to see numbers closer to the low teens in city driving, particularly in heavy traffic. Highway MPG might reach the quoted 20 MPG if you use cruise control judiciously, but even a moderate amount of enthusiastic acceleration will reduce your average. The vehicle’s all-wheel-drive system, while beneficial for traction and handling, also contributes to increased fuel consumption. Many owners accept this trade-off as the price to pay for the SVR’s performance capabilities. This isn’t your vehicle if fuel economy is a primary concern.

How it compares

The Range Rover Sport SVR doesn’t exist in isolation. Competitors like the BMW X5 M (15 MPG combined) and the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S (17 MPG combined) offer similar levels of performance and luxury, and their fuel economy figures mirror the SVR’s. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid achieves a combined 20 MPG through plug-in hybrid technology, which changes the driving experience and purchase price considerably. Browsing ROVER MPG across all years shows how prioritizing performance impacts efficiency, even within the Land Rover family. The SVR buyer is often less concerned with squeezing every last mile out of a gallon of fuel than with the immediate thrill of acceleration and the prestige of owning a top-tier performance SUV. You can see how the SVR deviates from the rest of the lineup for all Land fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Range Rover Sport SVR isn’t designed for optimal fuel efficiency, there are strategies to minimize consumption without sacrificing its core appeal. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Gentle throttle inputs and anticipating traffic flow will make a difference over time, even though the temptation to unleash the supercharged V8 is ever-present.

Regular maintenance, including tire pressure checks and oil changes, is important for optimal fuel economy. Underinflated tires create additional rolling resistance, and old engine oil can reduce efficiency. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will help keep the engine running smoothly and efficiently.

Limit idling. Letting the engine run unnecessarily while stationary consumes fuel without any benefit. If you know you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making this a practical way to save fuel.

Consider using the vehicle’s driving modes. Selecting ‘Eco’ or ‘Comfort’ mode will typically adjust engine mapping and throttle response to prioritize fuel efficiency. While you won’t experience the SVR’s full performance potential in these modes, they can be useful for everyday commuting when maximum power isn’t required.

Finally, be mindful of cargo weight. Excess weight puts additional strain on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to improve efficiency. Keep the roof rack clear of bulky items when not in use, as they increase aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel economy.