The 2020 BMW X7 M50i gets 17 MPG combined. Nobody spending six figures on a performance three-row SUV expects Prius-like efficiency. This X7 isn’t about saving gas; it’s about transporting a family in comfort and having a monstrous V8. Buyers prioritize power, luxury, and presence, understanding that fuel economy is a secondary concern.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The 4.4L twin-turbo V8 produces 523 horsepower and needs to burn fuel to deliver that performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) optimizes efficiency, but physics still apply. Stop-and-go city driving will always take a toll, while longer highway stretches allow the engine to run more efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW X7 M50i at $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate and your costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and current fuel prices. The V8 needs premium fuel, adding to the expense. If you drive more than 15,000 miles a year, expect a higher annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, real-world MPG for the X7 M50i often falls short. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and heavy traffic can lower the combined MPG into the low teens. Careful highway driving might yield numbers closer to the EPA’s 21 MPG estimate. The size and weight hurt efficiency, regardless of driving style. Expect to spend time (and money) at the gas station.

How it compares

Competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLS 580 and Range Rover Sport Autobiography offer similar performance and luxury, with similar fuel economy. The GLS 580, with its boosted V8, gets around 16 MPG combined. The Range Rover Sport Autobiography also lands in the same ballpark. The BMW X7 xDrive40i, with its inline-six, achieves 22 MPG. Some buyers might find that appealing. Those shopping around should review all Bmw fuel economy data for a clearer picture. Those already sold on the X7 can study X7 MPG across all years to see how the engine options and model years compare. To get this kind of performance and luxury, you have to accept that fuel efficiency is not a priority.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The X7 M50i is not designed for fuel efficiency. You can still do things to make the most of each gallon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The V8’s torque is tempting, but smooth acceleration will reduce fuel consumption. Consider the vehicle’s size; anticipation is key, especially in urban environments.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check tire pressures regularly, especially during temperature changes, as pressure can change.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, making this a simple way to save fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. Cruise control minimizes speed fluctuations, which can improve fuel economy. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain; the system may downshift frequently.

Reduce weight. Carrying unnecessary weight reduces fuel economy. Remove items from the cargo area that you don’t need. Excess weight forces the engine to work harder. Given the target buyer is almost certainly using this to haul bulky items and multiple passengers, this may be a hard habit to break.