17 MPG combined is what you get with the 2016 BMW X6 xDrive50i. This vehicle isn’t for those trying to save every drop of fuel. It’s bought by drivers who want a bold look, fast acceleration, and the confident handling in all weather from BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, in a coupe-like SUV that doesn’t fit neatly into any category.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the X6 xDrive50i gets 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers are due to the demands on the 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine. Stop-and-go city driving makes the engine work at its least efficient, often needing power to move the heavy vehicle. Highway driving is better, but the X6’s shape isn’t very aerodynamic. Don’t expect Prius-like fuel economy on long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW X6 xDrive50i xDrive50i is $3,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles a year and using the EPA’s fuel economy estimates, along with a national average fuel price. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for the best performance, which can make fuel costs even higher. Consider $3,400 as a minimum; drivers with a heavy foot or who often drive in traffic will likely spend more.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but your fuel consumption will probably be different. The X6 xDrive50i encourages aggressive driving, which will affect your MPG. The sound of the V8 and the quick power from the turbos make it hard to drive conservatively. Also, tire pressure, temperature, and using accessories like air conditioning can change the EPA estimates. Many owners report closer to the low teens in combined driving, because the X6 is meant for performance.

How it compares

The X6 xDrive50i is in a segment where fuel economy isn’t as important as performance and looks. Competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe in AMG GLE 63 S form offer similar power and visual drama, but with an EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo, another performance SUV coupe, gets about 17 MPG combined. Audi’s SQ7 offers three rows and gets about 17 MPG combined, showing that high performance and SUV size usually don’t mean good gas mileage. These comparisons are important. The X6 customer may not be comparing it to a Toyota Highlander Hybrid; they’re often choosing between vehicles with similar performance and unique design. Drivers can review all Bmw fuel economy data to see how the X6 fits with the brand’s other vehicles, or search for X6 MPG across all years to compare different model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The X6 has a driving mode selector. The “Eco Pro” mode changes engine and transmission settings to save fuel, but throttle response suffers. Using this mode on the highway or in slow traffic can improve fuel consumption.

Check tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. See the sticker on the driver’s side door for the correct tire pressure.

Watch traffic and avoid braking and accelerating too much. The X6 is heavy and takes energy to speed up, so smooth driving is key. Keep a consistent speed and expect stops to save fuel.

Don’t use too many power-consuming features. Air conditioning, heated seats, and other accessories load the engine, increasing fuel consumption. Only use them when needed, especially on short trips where they affect MPG more.

Drive less aggressively. The X6 xDrive50i can accelerate quickly, but not using that power all the time will help. Accelerate gently and keep a steady speed to improve fuel economy.