The 2023 BMW iX xDrive50 with 21-inch wheels gets 83 MPG combined, a great figure considering it’s a luxurious, all-wheel-drive SUV with strong performance, not a small economy car. This efficiency should please buyers wanting luxury and lower fuel costs from their premium vehicles.

City and highway performance

The iX xDrive50’s electric powertrain works well in all kinds of driving. The EPA rates it at 82 MPG in the city and 84 MPG on the highway. Electric motors are efficient in stop-and-go traffic because regenerative braking recaptures energy. The similar highway MPG shows the iX is aerodynamic and efficient even at high speeds, a selling point for daily commutes and long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 BMW iX xDrive50 is just $900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using average electricity prices. Many gasoline SUVs can cost over $3,000 per year for fuel. This highlights the economic benefits of an electric vehicle, especially for those used to high fuel costs from luxury SUVs. These savings help the overall ownership experience, letting iX owners spend money on other things.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings are a standard, but real-world fuel economy changes based on driving style, temperature, terrain, and climate control use. Hard acceleration, braking, and high speeds drain the battery faster. Gentle driving and regenerative braking will extend the iX’s range and cut energy use. Cold weather hurts battery performance, too. However, careful iX owners can get close to the EPA estimates with good driving habits. The 20-inch wheel version has slightly better MPGe and range that isn’t drastically different from the 21-inch wheel version.

How it compares

The iX xDrive50 is unique among electric SUVs. The Tesla Model X Long Range gets 102 MPGe combined, which is more efficient, but may not have the same interior luxury or build quality. The Audi e-tron offers similar luxury, but usually gets around 78 MPGe combined. The Rivian R1S is great off-road, but gets around 73 MPGe combined. BMW buyers care about these comparisons. They want electric efficiency without sacrificing the luxury they expect from the brand. See IX MPG across all years to see how this model compares.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive to maximize regenerative braking. Watch traffic and slow down gradually, which lets the electric motor recapture energy and recharge the battery. This can improve your range.

Precondition the cabin while the iX is plugged in. Heating or cooling the interior before driving cuts energy use from the battery. Schedule preconditioning with the BMW app, so the iX uses power from the grid instead of the battery, especially on hot or cold days.

Use Eco Pro mode for daily driving. This mode changes settings like throttle response and climate control to save energy. In Eco Pro mode, it reduces power output to smooth acceleration and extend range. This helps keep a consistent speed on the highway with less battery drain.

Keep tires inflated to the correct pressure. Low tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to match the manufacturer’s recommendations. When replacing tires, consider low-rolling-resistance tires.

Reduce weight. Extra cargo increases weight, requiring more energy to accelerate and drive. Remove unnecessary items from the iX’s cargo area. Remember that even small amounts of weight can add up.

Think about wheel size when you replace tires. The 21″ wheel-equipped iX looks good, but using smaller wheels when replacing tires lets you install more efficient tires. That may not look as good, but the improved range and efficiency are clear. See all Bmw fuel economy data for details.