22 MPG combined. That’s the figure to remember when considering the 2017 BMW 740i xDrive with its smooth 3.0L inline-six. It’s not a Prius, but its fuel economy is reasonable for a large, luxurious, all-wheel-drive sedan designed for comfort and effortless power. This is a car for executives who value understated performance and opulent surroundings. They are willing to accept these mileage figures because the 740i xDrive provides a unique blend of athleticism and luxury that few rivals can match.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 740i xDrive at 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the car’s weight and engine displacement impact fuel economy. The highway number is better, as the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission finds the optimal gear to keep the engine running at cruising speeds. Expect the best highway mileage on longer road trips, especially when using cruise control on relatively flat terrain.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 740i xDrive is $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which fluctuate. This is just an estimate. Your personal fuel costs will depend on how and where you drive, and the price of gasoline in your area.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, prolonged idling, and extreme weather can negatively impact your MPG. However, careful driving, proper tire inflation, and regular maintenance can help you achieve or exceed the EPA estimates. Individual results will vary, but experienced drivers of the 740I MPG across all years often report figures within a few miles per gallon of the official numbers, especially on long highway drives.

How it compares

The 2017 BMW 740i xDrive is in a competitive segment of large luxury sedans. The Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic from the same year, with its larger V8 engine, typically achieves around 17 MPG combined, highlighting the BMW’s efficiency advantage, despite its all-wheel-drive system. The Audi A8 3.0T Quattro, another all-wheel-drive competitor, manages approximately 22 MPG combined, making it a very close competitor, although some argue the BMW provides a more engaging driving experience. Even Lexus LS 460 AWD models, known for their reliability, generally only get around 18 MPG combined. For those looking for higher efficiency within the BMW family, all Bmw fuel economy data shows that other models offer superior fuel economy, at the expense of the 740i’s size and luxury. These comparisons matter to the 740i xDrive buyer because they demonstrate the balance BMW has struck between performance and fuel efficiency in this class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Driving Dynamics Control system. The “Eco Pro” mode remaps the throttle response, optimizes shift points, and reduces the energy consumption of auxiliary systems, which improves fuel economy. Switching into this mode during steady-state highway cruising or when navigating congested city streets can make a noticeable difference.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, ideally when the tires are cold, and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. This small step can improve your MPG and extend the life of your tires.

Avoid excessive idling. Modern engines are designed to be shut off rather than left idling for extended periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. The 740i’s automatic start/stop system helps with this in city driving, though you might want to disable it if the restarts are too intrusive.

Use cruise control intelligently. Cruise control is most effective on relatively flat highways where it can maintain a consistent speed. However, avoid it in hilly terrain, as it can lead to unnecessary downshifts and increased fuel consumption. Anticipating changes in elevation and adjusting your speed will help you maximize efficiency.