36 mpg Jag S-type, high MPG tips
Hi,
I'm a new LVC member and I don't have an LS but I do own its fraternal twin; the Jaguar S-Type. I've lurked on this site for a while and like the modification, repair and styling information that very knowledgable members share.
I'm a fuel economy buff and have shared some of my efforts on Jaguar forums that I'm a member of. I have a best single tankfill( hand calculated ) of 36.4 mpg. I have a lifetime average of over 27 mpg for the 80K miles I have driven my car and am currently getting over 28 mpg consisently. As far as I know I'm the uncrowned king of fuel economy for gasoline S-Types.
So how do I do it? Here is a previous post I made on a Jag forum :
The simplest and best ways to improve fuel economy is through practicing efficient driving techniques: moderate acceleration, drive at the posted speed limits, maintain momentum by using as little throttle and brake to maintain your target speed, coast up to stops anticipating traffic to avoid unneeded stops and idling, avoid or combine short trips, not using cruise control when going uphill, etc. Use your instant mpg readout to teach yourself to maintain your acceleration and travel speed at the highest mpg readings. To learn more about fuel efficient driving check out websites such as
www.ecomodders.com,
www.gassavers.org,
www.cleanmpg.com. These hypermiling websites have a lot of great information on how to maximize your vehicle's fuel economy. "Modify the nut behind the wheel" as they say.
As the OP was looking for vehicle modifications that improve fuel economy, I would recommend upping the tire pressure to the sidewall maximum to reduce rolling resistance. I have been running my tires at 42 psi for the past 25K miles and while the ride is harsher, handling and tire wear are fine. I have over 80K miles on my original tires. Check your wheels for brake drag and fix it if it’s excessive. Insure that your wheels are balanced and aligned.
Keeping your car well maintained is critical but you won't find any significant improvements from using touted sparkplugs or air filters. Don't waste your money on snake oil products like HHO generators, magnets, chips, intake turbulators etc.
Modifications that have a proven positive impact are aerodynamic modifications and reducing weight. Aero mods: lowering the vehicle, grille blocking, passenger mirror removal, full belly pans. These changes work best at higher speeds but do make a noticeable difference. Weight reduction is less noticeable but still has a positive effect.
I am somewhat of a fuel efficiency buff and keep fuel logs for all my vehicles. I have achieved a best single tank average of over 36 MPG and have a lifetime average of over 27 MPG in my 2000 S Type 3L SE. Currently my fuel economy average is over 28 mpg. The mods I have done are 42 PSI tires, grille blocking over the upper grille opening and about 1/2 of the lower grille openings, right side mirror removal, front wheel deflectors and keeping unneeded stuff out of the trunk. I'll probably add a streamlining panel under the engine to further smooth air flow under the car. I made all my aero mods and they are easily removable if I need more radiator cooling airflow or need to use my fog lights.
Some people will disagree with my efforts which is fine, I have a thick skin. The S Type is a great car; beautiful, fast, luxurious and efficient. I hope to enhance its efficiency without degrading its other qualities. This is what works for me. If you drive smart, keep your tire pressures up, and keep your car well-maintained, sleek and light you will be rewarded with good fuel economy. I hope you find my suggestions to be helpful. Please let me know if you want more information on getting the most fuel economy out of your Jag.
Best wishes, Low&Slow