23 MPG combined is not the main reason someone buys a 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo. This is a large, comfortable machine designed for covering long distances in style. Fuel economy is a consideration, of course, but it’s balanced against the appeal of a refined 3.0L inline-six sending power to all four wheels through a smooth eight-speed automatic. Practicality has its limits when you’re looking for a fast and luxurious long-distance car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 640i xDrive Gran Turismo are 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That highway number is respectable and achievable in real-world driving if you resist using the engine’s power fully. The city figure reflects moving a large vehicle through stop-and-go traffic. The engine’s stop/start system helps, but only so much. These figures require premium fuel, adding to the overall cost. You can view 640I MPG across all years for a broader perspective.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Gran Turismo will be $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation, note fuel costs can change. This number provides a benchmark for comparing fuel expenses to other vehicles, though driving habits and local fuel costs determine your expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Drivers who spend much time in congested urban environments will likely see numbers close to or below the 20 MPG city estimate.

Conversely, those who frequently drive on long highway journeys, maintaining steady speeds, may find themselves closer to or exceeding the 28 MPG highway figure. Aggressive driving, frequent acceleration, and carrying heavy loads will negatively impact fuel consumption. Many drivers report that carefully monitoring their driving habits yields results close to EPA combined estimates.

How it compares

The 640i xDrive Gran Turismo sits in a reasonable position for fuel economy compared to its rivals. The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450, another stylish four-door coupe with a similar mission, achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined, matching the 640i. The Audi A7 3.0T, with its sleek design and quattro all-wheel drive, also lands at around 22 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera, while offering performance on another level, comes in lower at 21 MPG combined for the base model.

For buyers in this market, fuel economy is one factor among others, with performance, luxury, and styling often prioritized. If fuel economy is important, prospective buyers may explore all Bmw fuel economy data, as the brand offers more fuel-efficient models across its full lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the car’s driving modes. Selecting “Eco Pro” mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency. This mode typically reduces throttle response and shifts earlier, prioritizing economy over performance. While you might not always want to drive in this mode, it’s a useful option when lower fuel costs are important.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. The 640i’s auto start-stop feature is a good step, but turning off the engine manually can save even more if you prefer not to use the auto start-stop for any reason.

Lighten your load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your car reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need. The less weight the engine has to haul around, the less fuel it will consume.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Smooth, consistent driving is not only safer but also more fuel-efficient. Look ahead and anticipate traffic conditions, allowing you to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary stops and starts. Using cruise control on the highway, when conditions allow, can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.