30 MPG combined is an acceptable figure for the 2015 BMW 535d xDrive. It’s a good choice for drivers who want both the refined performance and all-weather security of a BMW 5 Series, and who also appreciate strong fuel efficiency. This isn’t a car for those seeking ultimate efficiency. It’s for buyers who prioritize a balance of luxury, performance, and relatively low running costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 535d xDrive break down to 26 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the diesel engine’s efficiency at lower speeds, where gasoline engines often struggle. Stop-and-go traffic won’t impact your fuel bill as much as it would in a comparable gasoline-powered 5 Series. The highway number, which many owners will see or exceed on long trips, is impressive for a luxury sedan of this size and weight, giving it a reputation as a comfortable and efficient long-distance cruiser. The 8-speed automatic also plays its part in optimized fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 BMW 535d xDrive at $1,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your own personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local diesel fuel prices, but $1,850 provides a benchmark for comparing the 535d xDrive’s running costs with other vehicles in its class. This also makes it helpful to compare to all Bmw fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing protocol, but many 535d xDrive owners regularly achieve MPG figures that meet or exceed the official estimates. The diesel engine’s torque allows for relaxed driving, minimizing hard acceleration and maximizing fuel economy. Driving style, weather conditions, and tire pressures all affect the MPG you get. The 535D MPG across all years can also influence buyer perceptions on real-world expectations through owner-reported data.

How it compares

The 2015 535d xDrive compares well to its competitors. The gasoline-powered 2015 BMW 535i xDrive, for instance, is rated at 22 MPG combined. The Audi A6 3.0T, also a popular choice for its refinement and all-wheel-drive, achieves around 24 MPG combined. Even the hybrid Lexus GS 450h only manages around 31 MPG combined, a small improvement over the 535d xDrive’s diesel. This matters to the buyer who wants a traditional luxury sedan experience without the complexity, cost, or charging limitations of hybrid powertrains.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 535d xDrive’s engine is designed for efficiency, but driving style still matters. Avoiding excessive idling, especially in cold weather, can conserve fuel. A cold engine consumes more fuel until it reaches its optimal operating temperature, so unnecessary idling wastes diesel.

Use the car’s driving modes. Most 535d xDrive models offer an “Eco Pro” mode, which optimizes vehicle settings, (throttle response and transmission mapping,) to prioritize fuel efficiency. Using this mode during regular commuting can save fuel.

Maintain your tires properly. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended settings found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. This also contributes to uneven tire wear, leading to early replacement.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and peak traffic times can minimize stop-and-go driving, which hurts fuel economy. Using navigation apps to find efficient routes can save fuel on longer journeys.

Consider the type of fuel you use. The 535d xDrive is designed to run on standard low-sulfur diesel fuel, but some owners report improved fuel economy when using premium diesel fuel. Experiment to see if your 535d responds well to better diesel.