15 MPG combined. Let’s be honest, nobody shelling out six figures for a 2020 BMW X5 M is prioritizing fuel efficiency. This vehicle is engineered for blistering performance, aggressive styling, and a commanding presence on the road; fuel consumption is simply the cost. It’s a visceral experience, a sledgehammer wrapped in leather, and buyers understand the trade-offs involved.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 X5 M break down to 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of driving a 600-horsepower, twin-turbo V8 through stop-and-go traffic, and then unleashing it on the open road. The city number will sting during daily commutes, especially given the X5 M’s eagerness to use every gap in traffic with a burst of speed. The highway figure is more palatable, but spirited driving will quickly erode that 18 MPG rating. These numbers are achieved using an advanced automatic (S8) transmission, optimized for both performance and efficiency. A less effective transmission would undoubtedly yield even lower results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,850 for the 2020 BMW X5 M. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with approximately 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. If you drive more aggressively, live in an area with high fuel costs, or exceed the 15,000-mile mark, your actual fuel costs will be significantly higher. For context, $3,850 could also fund a small track day habit or purchase a second, more economical vehicle for daily commuting. View all Bmw fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

Do not expect to consistently achieve the EPA numbers in the real world. The X5 M’s prodigious power and addictive exhaust note encourage aggressive driving, which will invariably reduce fuel economy. Short trips, frequent cold starts, and prolonged idling will also negatively impact your MPG. Owners often report averaging closer to 11-12 MPG in mixed driving conditions, with occasional highway stretches reaching 16-17 MPG at best.

The X5 M also demands premium fuel, further increasing the cost per mile. The thrill of driving often outweighs the concern for efficiency. Explore X5 MPG across all years on our site.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2020 BMW X5 M sits squarely where you’d expect it to. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, another high-performance SUV with a similar engine configuration, achieves a near-identical 15 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo offers slightly better economy at 17 MPG combined, but requires a lighter foot and compromises on raw horsepower. At the other end of the spectrum, the less powerful, but still potent, BMW X5 M50i manages 18 MPG combined, a worthwhile improvement for those seeking a balance of performance and efficiency. The buyers of X5 M models are often not cross-shopping for vehicles that offer considerably better MPG, they are trying to decide between performance options in the high performance range, or stepping up from the M50i.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly unleash the full potential of the engine. The X5 M is designed for exhilarating acceleration, modulating the throttle and adopting a smoother driving style can significantly improve fuel economy. This doesn’t mean you can never enjoy the car’s power, but mindful driving during daily commutes can make a noticeable difference.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is a simple but effective way to improve efficiency.

Minimize idling. Modern engines, especially turbocharged ones, consume a surprising amount of fuel while idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. The X5 M’s advanced starting system will ensure a quick and smooth restart when you’re ready to go.

Be mindful of your cargo. Excess weight reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, such as sporting equipment or tools, to lighten the load and improve your MPG. The effect is amplified in a heavy vehicle like the X5 M.