The 2017 BMW 740e xDrive achieves 27 MPG combined, a figure that suggests the priorities of its target demographic. This car isn’t primarily bought for outright fuel efficiency, but for its blend of luxury, technology, and lower fuel costs. Buyers seeking maximum MPG will look elsewhere, but for those wanting a plug-in hybrid executive sedan that offers brisk performance and all-weather security, the 740e xDrive is a good option.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 740e xDrive break down to 25 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. This split reveals the advantages of the plug-in hybrid system. The electric motor assists the gasoline engine more frequently in stop-and-go city driving, boosting fuel economy compared to highway cruising where the gasoline engine does more of the work. 29 MPG highway is respectable for a large sedan designed for long-distance comfort.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 740e xDrive is $2,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This number provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the running costs against other vehicles, even though individual expenses will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices. Drivers doing more city driving may see this figure drop due to increased EV use, while those on longer trips may see it rise.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy depends significantly on charging habits. Drivers who plug in the 740e xDrive and maximize electric-only range will likely surpass the official MPG figures. Those who rarely charge and rely on the gasoline engine will likely experience lower fuel economy. The vehicle’s turbocharged engine with electric motor optimizes efficiency, but the driver’s charging behavior dictates the final result. Learning to use the electric range is vital to reaching ideal 740E MPG across all years.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 740e xDrive occupies an interesting space. The Mercedes-Benz S560e plug-in hybrid sedan, for example, achieves a slightly lower combined EPA estimate of 25 MPG. The Porsche Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, while sportier, also sits around a 25 MPG combined rating. The Audi A8, which lacked a plug-in hybrid option in 2017, generally returned lower fuel economy in its non-hybrid configurations, often in the low-to-mid 20s for combined MPG. These distinctions matter to buyers in this segment, where even small improvements in efficiency are seen as a technological advantage, and where all Bmw fuel economy data is studied closely.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Prioritize charging: Regularly plugging in the 740e xDrive is the single most effective way to improve fuel economy. Even short charges can add valuable electric range and reduce gasoline consumption.

Use driving modes: The 740e offers various driving modes, including “Electric,” “Hybrid,” and “Sport.” Choose “Electric” for short trips and city driving to maximize electric-only range. “Hybrid” mode intelligently blends electric and gasoline power for optimal efficiency on longer journeys.

Gentle acceleration and braking: Aggressive driving habits significantly impact fuel economy, even in a hybrid. Practice smooth acceleration and braking to conserve energy and maximize regenerative braking, which replenishes the battery.

Plan routes strategically: If you know your destination is within the electric range, plan your route to avoid highways and prioritize slower, city streets where the electric motor is most effective.

Maintain tire pressure: Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels, which can be found on the driver’s side doorjamb.