17 MPG combined. That’s the reality facing anyone considering the 2018 BMW X6 xDrive50i. It’s a number that often gets overlooked by the X6 buyer, a demographic more concerned with making a bold statement than saving money at the pump. The X6 xDrive50i isn’t meant to be frugal; it’s a luxury performance coupe-over with a twin-turbocharged V8, and fuel economy is simply the cost of entry. This is a vehicle for those who prioritize aggressive styling, a potent driving experience, and the elevated seating position of an SUV, even if it means sacrificing practicality and MPGs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the X6 xDrive50i achieves 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the inherent inefficiencies of a large displacement V8 engine in stop-and-go traffic, as well as the aerodynamic challenges presented by the X6’s distinctive sloping roofline. While 21 MPG on the highway isn’t atrocious for a vehicle of this size and power, remember that the temptation to exploit the 445 horsepower on tap will invariably lead to lower real-world numbers. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) generally does a good job of keeping the engine in its most efficient range, but the car begs for you to use the powerful potential that sits under the hood.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW X6 xDrive50i is $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes that the vehicle will be fueled with gasoline priced at the national average. For X6 owners who live in areas with higher gas prices or who drive more aggressively, this number could easily be significantly higher. Understand that this is a calculated estimate and your specific driving habits significantly impact your cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the X6 xDrive50i often falls short of the official figures. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and even factors like tire pressure and ambient temperature can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Owners who routinely engage the X6’s performance capabilities should expect to see average fuel economy closer to 14-16 MPG in mixed driving. And using premium fuel, as recommended by BMW, will further increase expenses. Explore X6 MPG across all years to get a better sense of how fuel economy evolves on this model over time.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 BMW X6 xDrive50i’s fuel economy is generally on par with other performance-oriented SUVs in its class. For example, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 550e (plug-in hybrid) offers significantly better fuel economy but at a higher price point, demonstrating that improving efficiency often comes with trade-offs. The Porsche Cayenne S, another competitor, lands in a similar MPG range, at 17 MPG combined. Even within the BMW family, you’ll find vehicles like the X5 xDrive50i, which, while mechanically similar, might offer slightly higher fuel economy due to its less aggressively sloped roofline and slightly less weight. Keep in mind that similar MPG numbers from competitors do not necessarily mean similar experiences. Horsepower, curb weight, trim level, and many other considerations impact not only the feel behind the wheel, but the long term cost of ownership. For all Bmw fuel economy data, be sure to make cross-model comparisons based on your priorities.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly use the X6 xDrive50i’s prodigious power. While the twin-turbo V8 is a joy to unleash, gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow will significantly reduce fuel consumption. The X6’s weight and aerodynamic profile make it particularly sensitive to aggressive driving habits. Every stab of the throttle sucks down fuel at an alarming rate.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the tire placard, which is typically found on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Even a small difference in PSI makes a big difference in terms of drag.

Use the X6’s driving mode selector to choose the “Eco Pro” mode when possible. This mode optimizes various vehicle settings, such as throttle response and shift patterns, to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it may tame the engine’s responsiveness, it can provide a noticeable improvement in MPG, especially during city driving.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel and contributes to increased emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the X6, are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, without causing excessive wear and tear.

Consider combining trips to minimize cold starts. Cold starts are particularly taxing on fuel economy, as the engine requires more fuel to reach its optimal operating temperature. By combining multiple errands into a single trip, you can reduce the number of cold starts and improve overall fuel efficiency.