The 2016 BMW 550i xDrive gets 19 MPG combined. To be clear, most people don’t buy this car for fuel efficiency. They buy it for the strong power of its 4.4L twin-turbo V8 and the confidence of all-wheel drive, wrapped in the subtle luxury of a BMW 5 Series. This car is for executives who prioritize performance and driving pleasure, and for whom fuel costs are not the main concern.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how much fuel the engine uses during frequent stops and starts, when the big V8 really drinks the gas. The highway number isn’t stellar, but it shows that the engine can cruise efficiently at consistent speeds, helped by the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission in top gear. The numbers are pretty consistent regardless of driving style, so you will probably get very close to the EPA figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW 550i xDrive at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. If you drive more or less than 15,000 miles, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, your actual fuel cost may vary. $3,050 is a significant annual expense, and buyers should consider it when calculating ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who accelerate quickly might see numbers closer to the city rating, even on mixed driving. Those who drive smoothly and maintain consistent speeds may achieve slightly better than the EPA’s combined number, but exceeding the highway figure will be difficult given the engine’s size and the car’s weight. Across all model years, you can compare 550I MPG across all years to see ratings for different engines and drivetrain configurations.

How it compares

The 2016 BMW 550i xDrive’s fuel economy is lower than some competitors. The Mercedes-Benz E400 4MATIC from the same year, with its less powerful V6, manages a combined 23 MPG. The Audi A6 3.0T, another V6-powered competitor, achieves 24 MPG combined. Even within the BMW family, the 535i xDrive, using a turbocharged inline-six, offers a much better 23 MPG combined. This matters to buyers who want the 5 Series’ mix of luxury and performance, but are willing to give up some horsepower to save on gas. If fuel economy is a concern, you may want to review all Bmw fuel economy data to make sure you select the right BMW.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating quickly. The 550i xDrive’s V8 is responsive, and it’s tempting to use its power. Each acceleration burst burns fuel, so driving smoothly and gradually will improve your MPG.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check the doorjamb sticker for the recommended tire pressure.

Don’t idle for long periods. Idling, like warming up the engine in cold weather, wastes fuel. The 550i’s engine warms up quickly while driving, so start driving after a short warm-up.

Get your car serviced on time. A well-maintained engine is a fuel-efficient engine. Follow BMW’s maintenance schedule for oil changes, spark plug replacements, and other services for best performance.