19 MPG combined is the price you pay for a sledgehammer wrapped in supple leather. The 2024 BMW X5 M60i xDrive doesn’t pretend to be frugal. It’s a performance SUV, prioritizing blistering acceleration and poised handling over saving fuel. The target audience isn’t hypermilers, it’s affluent drivers who want a potent and luxurious daily driver, and are willing to trade fuel efficiency for the thrill of a twin-turbo V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the X5 M60i break down to 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the demands of moving a heavy, all-wheel-drive vehicle propelled by a high-output engine. Stop-and-go traffic, a common scenario for many X5 owners, results in lower fuel economy. The highway number reflects the car’s ability to cruise efficiently at consistent speeds, though any enthusiastic use of the accelerator will quickly diminish that economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission is tuned for both performance and efficiency, but its priority is always delivering power on demand.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 BMW X5 M60i xDrive at $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which this engine requires. This yearly fuel expense is a significant consideration and firmly places the X5 M60i in the realm of premium vehicle ownership. The actual cost can fluctuate depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the distance driven annually, but $3,050 is a good baseline to keep in mind.

Real-world expectations

Experience suggests that achieving the EPA’s numbers consistently in the real world will require a disciplined right foot. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips where the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you frequently indulge in the X5 M60i’s performance capabilities. Urban dwellers will likely see closer to the city MPG in their daily driving. Of course, you can always view all BMW fuel economy data on our site to view the MPG estimates for the entire BMW line-up.

How it compares

The X5 M60i finds itself in a competitive segment populated by other performance-oriented SUVs. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 manages a slightly better 18 MPG city and 22 MPG highway, though its performance is a step below the M60i. The Porsche Cayenne S, another performance benchmark, achieves 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Audi SQ7 offers a comparable blend of performance and luxury, delivering around 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. The comparison is key to understanding that the X5 M60i’s fuel consumption is normal within its performance bracket. Buyers considering this vehicle are typically less concerned with maximizing MPG and more focused on the performance and driving experience it provides.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the X5 M60i’s driving modes. Selecting “Eco Pro” mode will remap the throttle response, shift points, and climate control settings to prioritize fuel conservation over outright performance. It won’t transform the X5 into a Prius, but it can noticeably improve fuel economy during steady-state cruising. Consider the X5 MPG across all years to give you perspective.

Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow are crucial. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and abrupt braking, as these actions waste fuel. Maintaining a smooth and consistent pace, especially on the highway, allows the engine to operate more efficiently.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are efficient when running, but idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a stop lasting more than a minute, consider turning off the engine.

Lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle that add weight, as every extra pound contributes to increased fuel consumption. While the impact may seem minor, it adds up over time.