23 MPG combined won’t top any fuel economy charts, but most 2021 BMW 740i xDrive owners accept it. People choose this car for its comfort, performance, and technology, not just saving gas. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system appeals to those in colder climates, making fuel efficiency less important, but still relevant.

City and highway performance

The 2021 BMW 740i xDrive, with its smooth 3.0L inline-six, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG in the city. This is normal for a large luxury sedan in stop-and-go traffic. The engine’s quick response and the transmission’s smooth shifts make city driving easier, even if not highly economical. On the highway, the 740i xDrive’s fuel efficiency improves. The EPA estimates 27 MPG on the open road, achievable when using cruise control and avoiding hard acceleration. This makes it a comfortable long-distance car, if not the best in its class for fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 BMW 740i xDrive at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a good way to compare costs to other vehicles, though individual costs will change based on driving and local fuel prices. Remember that this cost includes premium fuel, which is needed for the turbocharged engine’s best performance and efficiency.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a standard comparison, but real-world fuel economy varies. Drivers who accelerate quickly will likely see lower MPG, especially in the city. However, those who focus on efficiency and use the car’s driving modes carefully may get numbers closer to or slightly better than the EPA estimates on the highway. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems can help drivers be more efficient on long trips, but using the accelerator carefully is key.

How it compares

The 2021 BMW 740i xDrive’s fuel efficiency is competitive among large luxury sedans, but not the best. The Mercedes-Benz S500 4MATIC, with its turbocharged inline-six and mild-hybrid system, gets about 23 MPG combined. The Lexus LS 500 AWD gets a slightly lower 21 MPG combined. The Audi A8, depending on the engine, ranges from 19 to 22 MPG combined. The 740i xDrive buyer probably compares these differences against driving feel and interior features. Comparing 740I MPG across all years can also help contextualize these figures.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the BMW’s driving modes. “Eco Pro” mode changes the throttle, shift points, and auxiliary systems to prioritize fuel savings. It’s helpful in stop-and-go traffic or on long highways.

Drive at a steady speed and avoid hard acceleration. The 740i xDrive’s turbocharger allows fast acceleration, but rapid bursts of speed will lower fuel economy. Watch traffic and use the car’s momentum.

Keep tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more gas. Check tire pressure often and inflate to the recommended levels, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Remove extra weight. Extra cargo increases the vehicle’s load, decreasing fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to reduce weight and improve efficiency. Explore all Bmw fuel economy data to understand how weight and other factors affect mpg.

Service the car as recommended by BMW. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance keep the engine running well. A well-maintained engine will always get better fuel economy than one that is not.