The 2017 BMW 535i Gran Turismo realistically gets 22 MPG combined. To be clear, if saving gas was your main goal, you likely wouldn’t be considering it against a hatchback. The 535i GT is for a specific buyer who wants a versatile, comfortable, and stylish vehicle that stands out from the more common BMW sedans and SUVs. This buyer likely appreciates the GT’s unique blend of luxury, cargo capacity, and elevated seating position and is willing to accept its higher fuel consumption for these advantages.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 535i Gran Turismo are 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. While 19 MPG in urban settings might seem low compared to modern hybrid or electric vehicles, remember the 535i GT’s weight and the high power of its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. The highway figure of 27 MPG is better, helped by the eight-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at highway speeds. Of course, aggressive driving will hurt both figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 535i Gran Turismo to be $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s estimate of national average fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Premium fuel is recommended for best performance, which will increase the cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides an estimate, but your real-world fuel economy with a 2017 535i GT might be different. Some drivers say they get close to the EPA estimates with careful driving and mostly highway miles. Others, who often drive in stop-and-go traffic or enjoy the engine’s responsive power, might see their average MPG closer to the city estimate. Things like tire pressure, car maintenance, and even using air conditioning can change fuel consumption. Be sure to check all Bmw fuel economy data to get a wider view.

How it compares

The 2017 535i Gran Turismo’s fuel economy isn’t great when compared to other vehicles in its class and price range. For example, the rival Audi A7 3.0T (same model year) gets around 22 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz CLS550, another stylish four-door coupe, has similar MPG numbers to the BMW. Buyers who might consider larger SUVs can look at a BMW X5 35i, which can get about 20 MPG combined in real-world driving. The 535I MPG across all years will also vary. The buyer who picks the 535i GT likely values its unique design and driving experience more than maximizing less gas; they are choosing those qualities instead.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Proper tire inflation is critical. The correct tire pressure for your 535i GT is on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which really hurts fuel economy.

Avoid fast acceleration and braking. The 535i GT’s turbocharger gives lots of power, but using it often uses more fuel. Accelerate slowly and watch traffic to conserve gas.

Use the ECO PRO mode. It might make the throttle less responsive, but ECO PRO changes engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency. It’s helpful for everyday driving.

Don’t carry extra weight in the vehicle. Too much cargo reduces fuel economy and hurts handling. Remove items you don’t regularly need.

Think about your driving route. Choose a route with fewer stoplights and less traffic to improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient path.