A combined 26 MPG might not make you think of high fuel efficiency, but for a sporty, all-wheel-drive luxury sedan like the 2017 BMW 330i xDrive, it’s a respectable number. This car isn’t only bought to maximize efficiency. It’s bought for its handling, premium features, and the status it offers. People who choose this 3 Series version accept a slight drop in fuel economy for better traction and exciting performance. They want the confidence of xDrive all-wheel drive and the quickness of a turbocharged engine, even if it means more trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 BMW 330i xDrive are 23 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the turbocharger is always working and the automatic transmission is often shifting. The 33 MPG highway rating better shows the engine’s efficiency when driving at a constant speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) helps highway fuel economy, keeping the engine at its best for saving fuel at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the yearly fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 330i xDrive at $2,250. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. How much you actually spend will change based on your driving, where you live, and current fuel prices, but this gives a good comparison point. The vehicle recommends premium fuel, and using mid-grade would lower the annual fuel cost, but might reduce performance.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard, but real-world fuel economy often changes. Drivers who want fast acceleration and often use the Sport driving mode will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. If you drive gently and spend more time on the highway, you might get MPG numbers close to, or even better than, the 33 MPG highway rating. Factors that change real-world MPG include tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and using accessories like air conditioning.

How it compares

The 2017 BMW 330i xDrive is competitive compared to its rivals. The Audi A4 Quattro with its 2.0T engine is rated at 27 MPG combined, a small advantage. The Mercedes-Benz C300 4MATIC gets about 26 MPG combined. The Lexus IS 300 AWD is known for reliability, but it gets 22 MPG combined. For buyers judging all Bmw fuel economy data, especially against models with better efficiency, the tradeoff between performance and economy is important. If fuel economy is a top concern in the 3 Series, look at the rear-wheel-drive 320i, but it doesn’t have xDrive all-wheel drive. For information on 330I MPG across all years, check our model guide.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the BMW’s Eco Pro mode. This driving mode adjusts how the throttle responds and when the transmission shifts to prioritize fuel efficiency. It can improve MPG, especially in city driving, without hurting performance too much. Use it during commutes or when saving fuel is most important.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side doorjamb. This simple action can change your MPG.

Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. These actions use more fuel and strain the engine and brakes. Driving smoothly is safer and saves fuel.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in your car lowers fuel economy. Remove items from your trunk and backseat to lighten the load.

Service your car often. A well-maintained engine runs better. Follow the maintenance schedule for your BMW, and this includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A healthy engine saves fuel.