23 MPG combined is what you’ll likely get with the 2022 BMW X3 M40i. Buyers choose this X3 for its mix of practicality and performance, not necessarily for saving gas. It’s for drivers who want some M-car performance while still being able to run errands and manage school drop-offs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 BMW X3 M40i are 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are possible under ideal conditions, but the M40i has a turbocharged 3.0L inline-six engine that encourages spirited driving. Using Sport or Sport+ modes, or pressing the accelerator hard, will reduce fuel economy. 26 MPG on the highway is respectable for a vehicle with this level of performance, making it suitable for long trips. Stop-and-go traffic, however, will quickly increase its fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 BMW X3 M40i at $2,500. That’s based on 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city driving and 45% highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving, location, and current fuel prices. If you live in an area with higher fuel costs or drive aggressively, expect to exceed $2,500.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, the X3 M40i’s fuel economy is generally a bit lower than the EPA estimates, especially for drivers who use the engine’s power. Owners often report averaging around 20 MPG in mixed driving. Drivers who focus on fuel efficiency should see numbers closer to the EPA’s 23 MPG combined rating. The “S8” designation in the EPA data signifies its eight-speed automatic transmission, which helps balance performance and fuel economy. Aggressive driving hurts fuel economy. Find X3 MPG across all years here.

How it compares

The X3 M40i is in a competitive class with several rivals. The Audi SQ5, another performance SUV, achieves around 21 MPG combined, according to the EPA. The Porsche Macan S, which handles well, gets about 19 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 has similar horsepower and delivers around 20 MPG combined. These numbers mean the X3 M40i is a middle-ground option for fuel economy, balancing performance and better efficiency than its closest competitors. For those seeking even better fuel economy within the BMW lineup, explore all Bmw fuel economy data. The Acura RDX SH-AWD offers slightly better mileage at 23 MPG combined, but it does sacrifice some power.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the X3 M40i’s Eco Pro driving mode. It reduces throttle response and changes shift points, which can improve fuel consumption in city driving. This mode optimizes the vehicle for efficiency, making it suitable for situations where performance is less important.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Correctly inflated tires lower rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. The X3 M40i’s system displays tire pressure readings, making it easy to maintain proper inflation.

Avoid idling, especially with a turbocharged engine. Modern engines don’t need long warm-up times, and idling wastes gas. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turning off the engine is generally more efficient.

Cruise control can be helpful on the highway, but use it carefully. While it maintains speed, it’s not always efficient on hills. The transmission might downshift quickly to maintain speed uphill, which increases fuel consumption. Watch for changes in elevation and adjust your speed yourself.

Try not to constantly select Sport and Sport+ driving modes. These modes improve performance, but they also significantly increase fuel consumption by holding gears longer and responding more quickly to the accelerator. Save these settings for when you need the M40i’s full performance.