87 MPG combined seems almost unbelievable for a vehicle as large as the 2018 Tesla Model X 100D. It’s not a compact hatchback, it’s a falcon-winged SUV that seats seven and accelerates quickly. The 100D’s efficiency shows the potential of electric powertrains, especially for buyers who want less gas and family practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA ratings for the 2018 Model X 100D show consistent performance in different driving conditions. The city MPG of 86 nearly matches the highway MPG of 89, which shows the electric motor’s efficiency. Gasoline engines often struggle in stop-and-go traffic, but electric motors do well in cities because of regenerative braking. Regenerative braking captures energy when slowing down and puts it back into the battery. This smooth, linear power delivery and efficient energy recapture lead to great MPG ratings whether you’re driving in the city or on the highway.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Tesla Model X 100D at $850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using national average electricity prices, and the vehicle’s combined MPG rating. Owners of large SUVs could save thousands of dollars each year. The actual electricity price affects the actual annual cost. Also, you save time by skipping gas stations.

Real-World Expectations

EPA estimates are a benchmark, but real-world fuel economy varies. Driving style, temperature, terrain, and accessories like air conditioning all change the Model X 100D’s energy consumption. Quick acceleration and “Ludicrous Mode” use more energy. However, the Model X’s energy management system gives drivers real-time feedback to improve efficiency. Many Tesla owners charge their vehicles at home overnight, using off-peak electricity rates and reducing dependence on public charging.

How It Compares

The 2018 Tesla Model X 100D has excellent fuel economy. A similar-sized gasoline SUV like the BMW X5 xDrive50i gets around 19 MPG combined. Even hybrid SUVs like the Lexus RX 450h get only about 30 MPG combined. This efficiency difference shows the advantage of an all-electric powertrain. For buyers who want high MPGe (Miles Per Gallon equivalent), the Model X 100D is unmatched. Compare MODEL MPG across all years for more information. You can also see all Tesla fuel economy data.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Use regenerative braking. The Model X’s regenerative braking system can improve efficiency, especially in city driving. Try different regen settings to find the best match for your driving style. Predict stops and let off the accelerator early to let regenerative braking slow the vehicle.

Precondition the cabin while plugged in. Heating or cooling the cabin uses a lot of energy. Preconditioning the cabin while plugged in draws power from the grid instead of the battery, saving range, especially in hot or cold weather.

Watch your driving habits. Quick acceleration, high speeds, and hard braking all reduce efficiency. Driving smoothly and keeping a steady speed can improve fuel economy. The Model X’s energy display shows your energy consumption, so you can adjust your driving.

Check tire pressure. Maintaining the right tire pressure reduces rolling resistance and improves efficiency. Check your tire pressure often and inflate the tires to the recommended level, on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. You can’t change the Model X’s shape, but removing things from the roof rack or hitch receiver can reduce drag and improve efficiency, particularly at highway speeds.