24 MPG combined in a 2017 BMW 740i might seem unremarkable, but it highlights BMW’s engineering when you consider what this car is: a quiet, high-performance luxury sedan designed to coddle its occupants in unparalleled comfort while delivering effortless power. The 740i isn’t built for hypermiling; it’s built for drivers who want a refined driving experience but don’t want to be completely irresponsible at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 BMW 740i will achieve 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, highlighting that even with its efficient turbocharged inline-six engine, the 740i’s weight and luxury features affect fuel economy in dense urban environments. The highway number is more impressive because of the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to run at cruising speeds. In the real world, some owners report highway figures exceeding the EPA estimate, especially on long road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 740i at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, whether you use premium fuel (recommended for optimal performance), and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

Owners of the 2017 BMW 740i generally understand that fuel economy isn’t the car’s main selling point. They accept that more gas comes with owning a large, luxurious sedan. However, the 740i’s fuel efficiency is surprisingly good for its class, often exceeding expectations in mixed driving conditions. Drivers who prioritize efficiency can get even better mileage from the car, and most owners are happy with the blend of performance and reasonable fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury sedans in its class, the 2017 BMW 740i does well. For example, the Mercedes-Benz S550 from the same year, with its larger and more powerful V8 engine, achieves a combined EPA rating of only 20 MPG. Even the smaller Audi A8 with its 3.0L V6 manages only 22 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera gets around 21 MPG combined with its base engine. These comparisons show that the 740i has a good balance between performance, luxury, and fuel economy, a key factor for buyers who want a prestigious sedan without sacrificing efficiency entirely. You’ll find 740I MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the “Eco Pro” driving mode will remap the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency, but be aware that acceleration will be noticeably slower. This mode is best suited for highway cruising or situations where maximizing fuel economy is important.

Consistent and gentle acceleration is key to saving fuel in the 740i. Avoid hard launches and sudden bursts of speed, as the engine will use fuel to deliver the requested power. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace when possible. Consider looking at all Bmw fuel economy data to compare models within their fleet.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the door jamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Use power-consuming accessories like the air conditioning system less. While not always practical, running the climate control on a lower setting or using the ventilated seats instead of full AC can slightly improve fuel efficiency and remove unnecessary items from the trunk to reduce weight.

Consider a professional engine tune-up if your 740i is showing signs of reduced fuel economy or performance. A check-up can identify issues like dirty air filters or aging spark plugs that might be impacting efficiency. Regular maintenance is important.