22 MPG combined isn’t going to top any lists, but for the 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i, it’s an acceptable trade-off. This isn’t a hybrid designed for fuel efficiency; it’s a mid-size luxury SUV offering performance, comfort, and practicality. X5 buyers want a refined driving experience, a luxurious cabin, and the status that comes with the BMW brand. Fuel economy is a consideration, but less so than power, handling, and overall refinement.

City and highway performance

The X5 xDrive40i gets 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects how stop-and-go traffic makes the 3.0L turbocharged inline-six engine work harder, reducing efficiency. The highway number is better. When cruising, the X5’s eight-speed automatic transmission shifts to higher gears, allowing the engine to run more efficiently. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system adds weight and friction, but provides better traction in any weather, which many owners find worth it.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The X5 requires premium unleaded gasoline, which costs more than regular. Your driving habits, local fuel costs, and the ratio of city to highway driving affect your actual fuel expenses. Hard acceleration, frequent short trips, and long idling times will all lower fuel economy and raise the annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The X5’s EPA ratings are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies. Drivers who want performance and often use the engine’s 335 horsepower might see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even lower. Those who drive more conservatively and do more highway driving could see numbers closer to the 26 MPG highway rating, or possibly even higher under ideal conditions. Regular maintenance and careful driving are key to getting the best fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2019 BMW X5 xDrive40i has a lot of competition in the mid-size luxury SUV class. The Acura MDX with all-wheel drive typically gets around 21 MPG combined. The Lexus RX 350 AWD is similar, at around 22 MPG combined. The Volvo XC90 T6 AWD, known for its efficiency, gets around 22 MPG combined with its turbocharged and supercharged engine. The X5’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors, and slightly better than some. The Porsche Cayenne, while offering even more performance, usually gets around 20 MPG combined in its base trim. For details on other models, consult all Bmw fuel economy data. You can also see how the X5 fares across model years at our X5 MPG across all years page.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The X5’s turbocharged engine responds well to gentle inputs, and smooth driving improves fuel economy. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed when you can.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and uses more gas. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the levels on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Don’t idle excessively. Idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The X5’s automatic start-stop system can also help reduce idling at traffic lights and in stop-and-go traffic. Be sure the system is active.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in the X5 reduces fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve MPG. Removing roof racks when not in use helps too.

Keep the car maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups, helps the engine run efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less gas and performs better.