Eighteen miles per gallon combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but it’s almost beside the point for the 2022 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible. This isn’t a car purchased for its lower fuel costs. It’s a visceral machine draped in elegant aluminum, designed to deliver a sensational driving experience with the top down and a thunderous exhaust note echoing off canyon walls. The target buyer is someone who prioritizes thrills and aesthetics over pump prices, someone who sees the expense as the price of entry into a world of performance and panache. They want a statement, a machine that stirs the soul, and they’re willing to pay the price, both at the dealership and at the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the F-Type R Convertible at 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. While a single-digit improvement between city and combined MPG may seem uninspiring, it reflects the nature of the beast. The supercharged V8 simply loves to consume fuel, especially during stop-and-go traffic and short bursts of acceleration, situations that typify urban driving. However, the 24 MPG highway figure is a sign that the automatic transmission and engine management system can deliver respectable economy when cruising steadily at legal speeds. Even a high-performance machine like this can achieve reasonable efficiency when driven with a degree of restraint.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Jaguar F-Type R AWD Convertible is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the prevailing price of premium gasoline, which this engine requires. Understanding the EPA’s baseline provides a perspective on what to realistically expect over the course of a year with this powerful drop-top. It’s a significant expense, but for the owner who savors every moment behind the wheel, it’s a calculated one.

Real-world expectations

Forget those EPA numbers if you plan on exploiting the full potential of that supercharged V8. Engaging “Dynamic” mode and exploring the upper reaches of the rev range will see your fuel economy plummet significantly, likely dipping well below the official city estimates. The F-Type R Convertible rewards enthusiastic driving with exhilarating performance, but that performance comes at a cost. Conversely, gentle acceleration and judicious use of cruise control during highway trips may allow you to approach or even slightly exceed the 24 MPG rating. Ultimately, your mileage will vary significantly based on your driving style and the types of roads you typically travel.

How it compares

For cross-shopping purposes against similar vehicles, consider that the BMW M4 Competition Convertible, while offering similar levels of performance with its I6 twin-turbo engine, manages a slightly better 16 MPG city / 23 MPG highway for a combined 19MPG. The Porsche 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, known for its blend of performance and relative efficiency, achieves around 18 MPG city / 25 MPG highway for a combined 21MPG with its powerful flat-six engine. Even the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible, with its naturally aspirated V8 and cylinder deactivation technology, has a combined fuel economy of 19 MPG. These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time and should be considered for buyers who want a similar driving experience with slightly less impact on their wallets. For those considering other Jaguar models, our website has all Jaguar fuel economy data. You can also explore F TYPE MPG across all years. It’s critical to line this up with your performance preferences and cost considerations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly access the supercharger’s boost zone. Aggressive acceleration is addictive in the F-Type R, but it’s also the quickest way to drain the fuel tank. Smooth, deliberate throttle inputs will significantly improve your efficiency without sacrificing too much of the driving enjoyment.

Use the various driving modes effectively. The “Eco” or “Comfort” mode, if available, should optimize throttle response and transmission mapping for fuel efficiency. Although it won’t transform the car into a Prius, it can noticeably reduce fuel consumption during everyday commuting.

Ensure tires are properly inflated and your vehicle receives regular maintenance. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular tune-ups and fluid changes also ensure the engine is running at peak efficiency.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking. Maintaining a consistent speed and anticipating stops allows the transmission to stay in higher gears, reducing fuel consumption. Progressive deceleration avoids that last-minute heavy application of the brakes, and helps maintain momentum.