17 MPG combined is a figure that’s unlikely to dissuade anyone seriously considering the 2024 BMW Alpina XB7. This is a hand-finished, seven-passenger performance SUV with a twin-turbocharged V8 producing neck-snapping acceleration. Fuel economy is, for the typical XB7 buyer, somewhere near the bottom of the priority list, far below exclusivity, luxury, and outright power. This is a statement vehicle, and while its thirst for premium unleaded is undeniable, it’s a price most owners are willing to pay.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the XB7 achieves 16 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of a high-performance engine lugging around a vehicle weighing well over 5,700 pounds. Stop-and-go city driving inherently punishes fuel efficiency, and the XB7’s prodigious power only makes it worse. The allure of instant torque is hard to resist, and every press of the accelerator chips away at your MPG. The highway figure, while better, still indicates that extended high-speed cruising won’t result in Prius-like efficiency. The XB7’s aerodynamic profile, while aiding stability at higher speeds, isn’t optimized for minimizing drag. The S8 automatic transmission manages the engine’s power effectively, but has its work cut out for it when moving this much mass.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 BMW Alpina XB7 is $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specified percentage of city versus highway driving, and assumes the national average fuel price. Understand that this is merely an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary significantly depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of time you spend with your foot planted firmly on the accelerator. For example, if local fuel prices get high in your area, or maybe you put above-average miles on your car, the $3,400 could be significantly higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG for the Alpina XB7 is often lower than the official figures. Aggressive driving, a common temptation given the vehicle’s capabilities, will quickly diminish fuel economy. Towing, another potential use case for a large SUV, also drastically reduces MPG. Even with careful driving, replicating the EPA’s highway figure can be challenging, especially in areas with hilly terrain or strong headwinds. Owners should anticipate seeing numbers closer to the combined estimate, especially during mixed driving conditions. If you truly want to dive into different models and how they handle fuel efficiency, consider looking at all Bmw fuel economy data on this site.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance luxury SUVs, the Alpina XB7’s fuel economy is within the expected range. The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63, with its own twin-turbo V8, achieves a similar 16 MPG combined. The Cadillac Escalade-V, another powerful contender, lands around 14 MPG combined. Even the less powerful Range Rover P530 manages only 18 MPG combined. The comparison is important for prospective buyers. If fuel economy is a strong consideration, there are more efficient SUVs available, but those vehicles won’t offer the Alpina’s unique combination of luxury, performance, and exclusivity. For those who desire a more fuel-efficient vehicle within the Alpina family, be sure to check out the ALPINA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Alpina XB7 isn’t known for its fuel efficiency, there are steps you can take to optimize your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The XB7’s immense power is intoxicating, but gentle throttle inputs will significantly reduce fuel consumption. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed are key to maximizing efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, such as warming it up on a cold morning, wastes fuel. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so it’s best to start driving gently as soon as possible. Similarly, avoid idling in traffic jams or at long stoplights.

Remove unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area. Even small weight reductions can contribute to improved MPG over time.

Service the engine on time. Regularly scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs optimally.