The 2020 Tesla Model X Standard Range gets 101 MPGe combined, which is very impressive. This is about a move away from gasoline engines. Model X buyers aren’t usually looking at minivans or traditional SUVs. They’re buying a future, a statement, and the tax incentives with EV ownership. The fuel economy is a big part of why people buy this vehicle, justifying the price with long-term savings and a clear conscience.

City and highway performance

The 2020 Model X Standard Range excels in city driving, with an EPA-estimated 105 MPGe. Electric vehicles often achieve high figures because of regenerative braking. When you lift off the accelerator, the electric motor becomes a generator, slowing the car and sending energy back to the battery. EVs often get better mileage in the city than on the highway, unlike gasoline cars. On the highway, the Model X Standard Range gets 98 MPGe. While less than the city rating, it’s still an impressive number, showing the aerodynamic efficiency and optimized powertrain of the Model X at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Tesla Model X Standard Range is $750. This assumes 15,000 miles per year and national average electricity prices. Your actual costs will vary based on your driving style, local electricity prices, and how often you charge at home versus at Superchargers. However, $750 highlights the potential for savings compared to gasoline SUVs, especially considering EVs typically have lower maintenance costs.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers are a good starting point, but real-world MPGe can change. Aggressive driving, frequent use of “Ludicrous Mode,” and carrying many passengers and cargo will reduce your efficiency. Cold weather also affects battery performance, reducing range and MPGe. Driving carefully, preconditioning the battery, and using regenerative braking can help you meet or exceed EPA estimates.

Owners in warmer climates may see better results than those in colder areas. Battery degradation over the life of the vehicle will slightly decrease range and MPGe.

How it compares

The Model X has few direct competitors, but comparing it to other large SUVs highlights its efficiency. A similar gasoline SUV, like the BMW X7, struggles to reach 21 MPG combined. Even hybrid SUVs don’t compare. The Volvo XC90 Recharge, a plug-in hybrid, gets around 27 MPG combined when operating as a hybrid. The electric Audi e-tron SUV gets only 78 MPGe combined. While the Audi e-tron has a nice interior and a traditional SUV shape, its efficiency is much lower than the Model X. This comparison is important for buyers; it explains the higher price with long-term savings and less gas, which is important for Tesla’s brand. For all Tesla fuel economy data, see our overview.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Precondition the battery, especially in cold weather. The Tesla app lets you warm up the battery before driving, using power from the grid instead of the battery. This improves range and efficiency in cold temperatures. Similarly, pre-cooling the cabin on hot days when plugged in will have the same effect.

Use regenerative braking. Tesla offers different levels of regenerative braking. Find the setting that recovers the most energy. Anticipate traffic and lift off the accelerator early to let the car slow down naturally, turning kinetic energy into battery power. Over time, this will become natural and improve your efficiency a lot.

Check your tire pressure. Just like with a gasoline car, properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. This is especially important for a heavy vehicle like the Model X, where tire pressure greatly affects efficiency. Consider low rolling resistance tires when you need replacements.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as they increase drag and reduce efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Keeping the car clean will also help a little, as dirt can disrupt airflow. Consider using “chill mode” for relaxed driving. For MODEL MPG across all years, see our data.