Anyone considering a 2018 BMW X6 M faces the reality of 16 MPG combined. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for saving money on gas. The X6 M is a performance-oriented machine in an aggressively styled coupe-SUV body, bought by those who want power, presence, and driving enjoyment. Fuel economy is a distant consideration, tolerated for the experience this package delivers. It’s an M car first, and an SUV a distant second.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. Don’t expect to exceed these numbers. The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8, producing 567 horsepower, is the reason. This engine wants to be driven hard, leading to gas station visits. The eight-speed automatic transmission, which is responsive and well-suited to the engine’s power delivery, can only do so much to mitigate the effects of all that power. The X6 M is a heavy vehicle, further impacting efficiency. Physics dictate a price for all that thrust.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW X6 M is about $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Actual fuel costs will vary based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used (premium is recommended, if not required). $3,600 is an indicator of the ongoing expense for powering this performance SUV.

Real-world expectations

Owners report that the EPA estimates are optimistic. Achieving 14 MPG in consistent city driving is hard, especially with the X6 M’s eagerness to accelerate. Highway figures can get closer to 19 MPG if you’re careful, but a heavy foot will negate any gains. Most drivers should budget for higher fuel expenses than the EPA suggests. Consider this when shopping X6 MPG across all years, as this generation’s fuel economy is consistent.

How it compares

The X6 M falls in line with expectations for high-performance SUVs. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, with its similar twin-turbo V8, has EPA ratings of 15 MPG combined, 14 MPG city, and 18 MPG highway. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo comes in at 17 MPG combined, 15 MPG city, and 21 MPG highway. The less powerful Audi SQ7 achieves similar numbers to the Porsche. Serious performance and reasonable fuel efficiency don’t coexist in this vehicle class. The X6 M buyer understands this trade-off. They are not cross-shopping with hybrid SUVs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t unleash the engine’s full potential constantly. The X6 M’s acceleration is nice, but every burst of speed uses fuel. Smooth, steady acceleration is important.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking to conserve momentum and minimize fuel consumption.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain the levels found on the doorjamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.

Avoid prolonged idling. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so there’s no need to let the X6 M idle for extended periods, especially in cold weather. Shutting off the engine during stops longer than a minute can save fuel.

Use the Eco Pro driving mode. Eco Pro mode adjusts engine mapping and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. It reduces throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, helping to minimize fuel consumption during everyday driving. Browse all Bmw fuel economy data to see the impact of driving modes on other models.

Plan your routes. Avoiding congested areas and stop-and-go traffic can improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find efficient routes and minimize unnecessary idling and braking.