19 MPG combined is what you can expect from this all-wheel-drive luxury sedan, if that sedan is a BMW. The 2016 BMW 750i xDrive isn’t designed to save fuel; it’s built to deliver easy power and a quiet driving experience, surrounding its occupants in luxury. For the executive who values dynamic performance and advanced technology, the amount they pay for gas is a secondary consideration.

City and highway performance

The 750i xDrive’s EPA ratings of 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway reflect how its powertrain performs. The 4.4L twin-turbo V8, producing 445 horsepower, needs a fair amount of fuel to deliver its output. Stop-and-go city driving, with frequent acceleration and braking, keeps the turbos working and the engine working hard. Highway cruising offers some relief, allowing the eight-speed automatic transmission to shift into higher gears and the engine to run at lower RPMs, but even then, the car’s weight and shape keep it from achieving truly impressive efficiency. This isn’t a Prius; it’s a performance-oriented luxury sedan that prioritizes power and refinement over fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW 750i xDrive is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time the EPA testing was conducted. Remember that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and fluctuating fuel prices. For owners who drive mostly in congested city environments, or exceed the average mileage, the annual cost will likely be higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, fuel economy in the real world can often be different. Drivers who frequently use the 750i’s Sport mode, accelerating aggressively and pushing the engine harder, should expect to see numbers closer to the city rating, even on mixed driving cycles. On the other hand, those who focus on smooth, gentle acceleration and maximize highway cruising with minimal stop-and-go traffic may be able to nudge the highway figure closer to 26 or 27 MPG. Driving style has a large impact. Check 750I MPG across all years to see other drivers’ experience.

How it compares

The 750i’s fuel economy is competitive among large, all-wheel-drive luxury sedans. The Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic, with a similar twin-turbo V8, has similar MPG ratings. The Audi A8’s V8 offering is comparable, too. Choosing a hybrid powertrain, such as in the Lexus LS 500h (rated around 25 MPG combined), will get you better fuel economy, but you will sacrifice some performance. Similarly, a smaller engine in a competitor like the BMW 740i xDrive (with a turbocharged inline-six) will improve fuel efficiency somewhat, but it also means sacrificing the effortless thrust that defines the V8 experience. To see all Bmw fuel economy data, visit our brand page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive more smoothly. The 750i’s strong torque means you don’t need to accelerate hard from every stop. Accelerate gently and anticipate traffic to minimize fuel consumption, especially in the city.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure often to get the best fuel efficiency and handling.

Don’t let the car idle. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The 750i’s automatic start/stop system is designed to do this automatically in certain driving conditions, saving even more fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed on the highway can improve fuel economy a lot. Cruise control helps to avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, allowing the engine to work more efficiently.

Keep up with maintenance. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, will help ensure that the engine runs well. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine.