79 MPG combined is remarkable for any “Performance” vehicle, and it highlights the unique appeal of the 2019 Tesla Model X Performance with 22-inch wheels. This isn’t a Prius competitor focused solely on maximizing every drop of fuel. It’s a quick, technologically advanced, and spacious SUV that happens to consume energy efficiently. Buyers in this segment want performance, cargo space, cutting-edge technology, and to reduce their environmental footprint. The Model X Performance delivers on all of that, and that 79 MPG equivalency is a bonus.

City and highway performance

The EPA says the Model X Performance gets 80 MPG in the city and 77 MPG on the highway. These numbers show the electric powertrain’s inherent strengths. City driving, with its frequent stops and starts, allows the Model X to capitalize on regenerative braking, recouping energy that would otherwise be lost as heat in a conventional combustion engine. The slight dip in highway MPG is expected, as aerodynamic drag becomes a more significant factor at higher speeds. Still, 77 MPG remains impressive, showing the efficiency of Tesla’s powertrain design. The single-speed automatic transmission delivers power, contributing to the vehicle’s overall efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Tesla Model X Performance with 22-inch wheels at $950. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average electricity prices. Your actual costs will vary depending on your electricity rates and driving habits. However, $950 is a good benchmark, compared to the fuel costs of similarly performing SUVs. Owners of the 2019 Tesla Model X Performance save money on fuel compared to many other vehicles of its size and performance capability.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a useful benchmark, real-world efficiency can vary. Driving style, ambient temperature, and the use of features like air conditioning can all impact the Model X Performance’s energy consumption. Aggressive acceleration will reduce range. Cold weather can decrease battery capacity and increase energy consumption for heating. Even with these factors, most owners find that the Model X Performance gets impressive real-world efficiency. Preconditioning the battery while plugged in, driving carefully, and using regenerative braking can all help maximize range and maintain good energy consumption.

How it compares

Few SUVs can match the 2019 Tesla Model X Performance’s combination of performance and efficiency. Traditional high-performance SUVs, like the BMW X5 M (around 16 MPG combined) or the Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S (also around 16 MPG combined), use far more fuel. Even hybrid SUVs struggle to compete. The Acura MDX Sport Hybrid, for example, achieves around 27 MPG combined. This makes the Model X Performance appealing to buyers who want fast acceleration without the higher fuel costs. All Tesla fuel economy data are strong, thanks to their electric powertrains, and is a selling point for the brand. If you’re looking at these numbers, check out MODEL MPG across all years to see how Tesla’s efficiency has evolved. The Model X Performance is unique, offering performance like high-end sports cars with SUV practicality and low running costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of regenerative braking. The Model X Performance offers adjustable regenerative braking settings. Try different levels to find the setting that best suits your driving style and maximizes energy recovery, especially during city driving.

Plan your charging strategy. Use off-peak electricity rates to minimize charging costs. Schedule charging sessions through the Tesla app to optimize for the cheapest electricity prices. Public charging can be more expensive, so home charging is preferable.

Precondition the battery. In cold weather, preconditioning the battery while the vehicle is plugged in can improve range. This warms the battery pack using grid power, rather than drawing energy from the battery itself during your drive.

Optimize driving habits. Avoid harsh acceleration and maintain a steady speed on the highway. Use autopilot features when appropriate, as the system is designed to optimize efficiency by maintaining consistent speed and following distance.

Monitor tire pressure. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.