FUEL’S PARADISE

Your SUV comparison (‘Five Below’, February) shows your crew achieved fuel consumption of 16.7L/100km for the Jaguar F Pace, compared with 12.2L/100km for the Land Rover Velar. These vehicles share identical drivetrains (engine and gearbox, including identical gear ratios), have respective weights of 1861kg and 1884kg, and ADR fuel figures of 8.9L/100 and 9.4L/100. I assume all vehicles travelled the same route.

Can your test crew offer any explanation for the discrepancy, other than perhaps an aggressive driving of the Jaguar? My 50-year experience is that the foot is a big factor with fuel use. We don’t all drive like we are competing in the Bathurst 1000. John Herbert, Peregian Springs, Qld

John, the foot is but the end of a long process. If a car feels sportier, it tends to be driven in a more enthusiastic style. That’s real life reflected in the figures. – Ed