24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s a reasonable compromise for a vehicle as luxurious and dynamically capable as the 2020 BMW 740i. For buyers of this flagship sedan, fuel economy is less of a critical consideration and more of a factor balanced against power, presence, and cutting-edge technology. These drivers prioritize the luxury and driving experience the 740i delivers, accepting its fuel consumption as the cost of admission to an exclusive automotive experience.

City and highway performance

The 740i’s EPA ratings break down to 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go conditions that inherently tax any engine, even one as technically advanced as BMW’s turbocharged inline-six. The highway number, however, is more respectable, showcasing the benefits of the smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at highway speeds without burning excessive fuel. BMW’s engineering team carefully tuned this powertrain to function optimally in its everyday use case: executive transport at moderate speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW 740i at $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Actual fuel costs can vary significantly depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of gasoline you use. More aggressive driving or consistently higher local fuel prices will easily push that annual number higher.

Real-world expectations

The EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy in the 740i can change. Drivers who spend most of their time in congested urban environments will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, even below it. But those who primarily use the 740i for long highway journeys may achieve figures exceeding the 29 MPG highway estimate. Factors such as driving style, vehicle load, and tire inflation can all influence the actual fuel consumption you experience. If you want to deep dive into 740I MPG across all years, you can find a lot of data online from owners and independent testers.

How it compares

The 2020 BMW 740i’s fuel economy positions it competitively within its class. The Mercedes-Benz S450, another inline-6 powered competitor, offers similar numbers, hovering around 21 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The Audi A8 with its turbocharged V6 lands in the same ballpark.

Stepping up to V8-powered alternatives, like the BMW 750i or the Mercedes-Benz S560, results in a noticeable drop in fuel economy, often falling into the high teens for combined MPG. This difference of a few MPG becomes a key consideration for buyers who put a premium on long-distance comfort with less gas and those who don’t want the added complexity of the more expensive, more powerful engine.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize your driving style by avoiding aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 740i’s smooth power delivery and refined suspension encourage a relaxed driving experience, which contributes to better fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The car has excellent predictive cruise control, so use it!

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations; this can significantly impact tire pressure.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the overall load, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects in the trunk. This can be helpful for those who use the 740i as a mobile office.

Use the 740i’s driving modes. Selecting the “Eco Pro” mode optimizes various vehicle settings, such as throttle response and climate control, to prioritize fuel conservation. While it might slightly reduce performance, it can make a noticeable difference in fuel economy, especially during city driving. You can see all Bmw fuel economy data on our site as well.