The 2017 BMW X6 M gets 16 MPG combined. This isn’t basic transportation; it’s a statement with carbon fiber and a snarling exhaust. Buyers aren’t looking at Priuses. They want a high-performance SUV coupe with a strong V8, and they know that level of performance requires more gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers are 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the X6 M’s weight and how stop-and-go traffic affects a large engine. The highway number is better, but you have to drive carefully to get it. If you push the 4.4L twin-turbo V8, that 19 MPG will disappear quickly. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) is responsive but designed for quick shifts and optimal performance, which helps with acceleration but hurts fuel mileage.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW X6 M at $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using EPA fuel economy ratings, and assuming national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is required for the X6 M, so include that in your budget. This number is an estimate, and your actual costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you live, and local fuel prices. Even if average fuel prices go down, the X6 M will still be expensive to fill up.

Real-world expectations

If you drive the X6 M the way it’s meant to be driven, forget the EPA numbers. Expect single-digit fuel economy when driving hard. In mixed driving, 12 MPG is more realistic. Some owners might get slightly better numbers if they mostly drive on the highway and drive very conservatively, but expecting to consistently match or beat the EPA estimates is too optimistic. Explore X6 MPG across all years since the first generation’s arrival, and you’ll see pretty consistent performance across its trim levels.

How it compares

The X6 M’s fuel economy is similar to other high-performance SUVs, but worse than mainstream vehicles. A Porsche Cayenne Turbo from the same year gets roughly 17 MPG combined, while a Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S gets about 15 MPG combined. The Range Rover Sport SVR, another competitor, also gets 16 MPG combined, which isn’t surprising given its supercharged V8. Even within BMW, there are big differences. Browsing all Bmw fuel economy data will show that a 2017 BMW X3 xDrive28i gets double the X6 M’s numbers. X6 M buyers prioritize performance, understanding the fuel costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The X6 M isn’t made for great fuel economy, but you can still reduce fuel consumption. The biggest thing is to resist flooring it all the time. Accelerate gently and maintain a steady speed, especially on the highway, to improve fuel economy.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended pressure on the door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo adds weight, which hurts fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and rear seats to reduce weight.

Avoid idling for long periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling wastes fuel without moving the car, resulting in poor mileage. The X6 M doesn’t have a start/stop system, so turn off the engine yourself.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed with cruise control can help improve fuel economy compared to accelerating and decelerating constantly. Pay attention to traffic and adjust your speed accordingly.