19 MPG combined is the reality facing anyone considering a 2022 Land Rover Defender 110 with the mild-hybrid 3.0L inline-six. Fuel economy is not the primary concern for most Defender owners. They’re buying a status symbol, a capable off-roader, and a vehicle with a distinctive design. The Defender’s inherent reliable nature, its boxy shape, and its undeniable presence on the road all contribute to aerodynamic challenges that directly impact fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Defender 110 MHEV are broken down to 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions that frequently negate the benefits of the mild-hybrid system. While the highway number is slightly better, the Defender’s weight and less-than-slippery shape prevent it from achieving truly impressive fuel mileage at higher speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its optimal range, but physics plays a significant role.

Annual fuel cost

The estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Land Rover Defender 110 MHEV is $3,050. This figure is calculated by the EPA based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and the national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Defender’s running costs to other vehicles, but remember that individual driving habits and fluctuations in gas prices can significantly alter this number. If you drive more aggressively, spend more time in city traffic, or regularly use premium fuel, expect to pay even more at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many Defender owners report numbers slightly below the EPA figures, especially in mixed driving conditions. The vehicle’s weight, tire choice (aggressive off-road tires further reduce efficiency), and driving style heavily influence fuel consumption. Those who frequently use the Defender’s off-road capabilities should anticipate even lower MPG figures. Hauling cargo or towing will also have a detrimental effect on economy. Check online owner forums for crowdsourced MPG data for a more complete picture.

How it compares

The Defender 110’s fuel economy positions it squarely in line with other off-road-oriented SUVs. A Jeep Wrangler Unlimited with the 2.0L turbo-4 engine manages around 22 MPG combined, while the V6 version dips closer to the Defender. The Toyota 4Runner, a perennial competitor known for its reliability, achieves just 17 MPG combined. Even luxury SUVs like the BMW X5 with the inline-six hover around 23 MPG combined, highlighting the Defender’s penalty for its boxy profile and off-road focus. For consumers prioritizing the Defender’s specific blend of capabilities, style and brand appeal, slightly lower fuel economy is often a worthwhile trade-off. Be sure to check all Land all Land fuel economy data and ROVER MPG across all years data for additional insight.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are critical for maximizing fuel economy. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, which consume more fuel and stress the powertrain. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady pace. This feature helps prevent unnecessary speed fluctuations, which can negatively impact fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds where aerodynamic drag becomes a significant factor.

Check and maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your Defender.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry on a regular basis to lighten the load.

Consider using the Defender’s Eco driving mode, if equipped. This mode typically adjusts throttle response and transmission shifting to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. While it may slightly reduce responsiveness, it can contribute to noticeable fuel savings.