The 2021 BMW X4 M Competition offers 16 MPG combined. It’s not a fuel-efficient vehicle but a high-performance coupe-SUV that prioritizes thrills. Buyers of this X4 M Competition understand they’ll be fueling up often. They want a vehicle that handles canyon roads like a sports car while offering the practicality of an SUV. The X4 M Competition delivers on performance, and the fuel economy is a consequence.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 BMW X4 M Competition are 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six is constantly using fuel to accelerate. The highway number, while slightly better, still indicates a performance-oriented machine. Even at cruising speeds, the X4 M Competition’s powertrain and drivetrain have some aggression. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), while offering smooth shifts, is also programmed for rapid downshifts to maximize power delivery, impacting fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 BMW X4 M Competition at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a considerable sum, placing the X4 M Competition in the category of vehicles with higher running costs. Buyers should factor this into their budget and understand that ownership costs extend beyond the initial price. This cost is a penalty for the performance and character of this car.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary. Drivers who accelerate hard, or frequently engage the X4 M Competition’s Sport or Sport+ driving modes, or those who spend time in traffic, can expect to see numbers below the EPA figures. However, drivers who drive more conservatively and mainly on the highway may achieve slightly better fuel economy. Given this vehicle’s performance, expecting to consistently exceed the EPA estimates would be unrealistic.

How it compares

The BMW X4 M Competition’s fuel economy places it within a subset of high-performance SUVs. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe, a direct competitor, achieves a similar 16 MPG combined. The Audi RS Q8 also lands in the same ballpark with 15 MPG combined. All Bmw fuel economy data across the X range prioritizes performance, but some smaller models manage significantly better figures. For example, if utility is more important than style, a BMW X3 M offers comparable performance with marginally better fuel economy. Understanding these figures is crucial for potential buyers to assess whether the X4 M Competition’s fuel consumption aligns with their priorities. Looking at X4 MPG across all years can provide even greater context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2021 BMW X4 M Competition isn’t designed for maximizing MPG, but drivers can take steps to improve fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions put stress on the engine and fuel system. Maintaining a smooth driving style can contribute to improvements in overall fuel consumption.

Use the X4 M Competition’s adaptive cruise control system on highway drives when possible. This system helps maintain speed and reduces the need for acceleration and deceleration, which can lead to fuel savings. This feature is designed for uncongested roads.

Check tire pressures regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended levels. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which translates to improved fuel efficiency. This is a simple aspect of vehicle maintenance that can impact fuel economy.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without any benefit, especially if the engine is cold. Learn how the auto start-stop feature works; it can be disabled if you prefer a driving experience without it.