The 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive, with its 3.0L inline-six engine, achieves a combined fuel economy rating of 22 MPG, a figure that won’t win any hypermiling contests but is perfectly acceptable for a long-wheelbase, all-wheel-drive flagship sedan. Buyers of this vehicle prioritize effortless power, supreme comfort, and confident all-weather capability over outright fuel efficiency. They understand this is a large, luxurious machine, and its MPG reflects that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for the 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive. The city rating reflects the engine’s need to work harder under stop-and-go conditions. Its turbocharger adds boost to move the 4,500-pound sedan.

The highway number, however, demonstrates the efficiency of the eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds with minimal effort. The overdrive gears allow for low engine RPMs at freeway speeds, maximizing fuel economy when covering long distances. These are the distances the 740Li xDrive was designed to conquer.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, this cost will fluctuate depending on your actual driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Factors such as frequent short trips, aggressive driving, and long periods of idling can all negatively impact your fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy will always vary. A driver primarily navigating congested urban centers can expect to see figures closer to the 19 MPG city rating, while someone who spends most of their time on the open road may approach or even exceed the 28 MPG highway estimate. Terrain also plays a role – frequent hill climbs will reduce fuel economy. The key to achieving the best possible mileage is to adopt a smooth and consistent driving style, avoid unnecessary acceleration, and anticipate traffic flow. Checking 740LI MPG across all years can also help you set reasonable expectations based on other owners’ experiences.

How it compares

The 2015 BMW 740Li xDrive’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of its competitive set. The Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic, with its more potent V8 engine, achieves a slightly lower 20 MPG combined. An Audi A8 3.0T quattro, another all-wheel-drive competitor, offers a comparable 22 MPG combined. The Lexus LS 460 AWD lags slightly behind at 18 MPG combined.

Whether these differences matter to the buyer depends on their priorities. A slight MPG gain is unlikely to sway someone who prefers the driving dynamics of the BMW or the interior refinement of the Mercedes-Benz. But those very concerned about fuel consumption might consider other models or even shop all Bmw fuel economy data for different model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given its turbocharged engine, use premium fuel as recommended by BMW. While it might be tempting to save money by using regular gasoline, premium fuel is formulated to prevent knocking and ensure optimal engine performance, which will contribute to better fuel economy over the long run.

Regularly check your tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your 740Li xDrive.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and high-speed cruising all negatively impact fuel economy. Practice smooth and consistent driving techniques to maximize your MPG.

Minimize idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you know you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, negating any potential fuel savings from idling.

Service your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that your engine is running optimally, which can improve fuel economy.