The 2022 BMW X5 M gets 15 MPG combined. It’s not made to be a fuel sipper, instead, it’s a performance SUV made for autobahn driving and challenging roads, where the focus is on reaching 60 mph in under four seconds, not getting the best mileage. Its buyers are generally performance enthusiasts who accept, but don’t necessarily celebrate, its thirst.

City and highway performance

The X5 M’s fuel consumption matches its nature. The EPA estimates 13 MPG in the city, a number that might seem optimistic in stop-and-go traffic, especially if you’re tempted to use the instant power. On the highway, the estimated 18 MPG requires restraint. Resist the urge to press the accelerator, a constant temptation with 600 horsepower, and you might get close to that number. Sustained, calm driving isn’t why anyone buys an X5 M. The large engine and its output require fuel, simple as that.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 BMW X5 M at $3,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, about 55% city and 45% highway, and using current national average fuel prices. Many X5 M owners will drive more than this each year, and few will avoid using the car’s performance, leading to a potentially higher annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA numbers. Real-world fuel economy in the X5 M greatly depends on driving style. Frequent hard acceleration, long idling, and aggressive cornering will lower the MPG figure. Expect to see numbers closer to 11-12 MPG in mostly city driving and maybe see 19 MPG on a long, flat highway if driven extremely carefully. The onboard fuel consumption display will provide a sobering, and often depressing, real-time reminder of your driving habits.

How it compares

Compared to its high-performance SUV rivals, the X5 M is in the middle. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, for example, has similar EPA estimates, typically around 15 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo, another competitor, also has similar fuel economy. Even the V8-powered Range Rover Sport, with its slightly less aggressive settings, doesn’t offer a significant improvement. This fuel economy similarity highlights the trade-off: performance comes at a cost. For buyers considering an X5 M, the small MPG differences between competitors are likely less important than other things, such as handling, interior, and brand image. For a broader view, investigate all Bmw fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the X5 M isn’t designed for fuel saving, some techniques can slightly improve fuel consumption. Avoid fast acceleration from a stop. Gently press the accelerator instead of flooring it. The instant torque is tempting, but it hurts fuel economy.

Use the X5 M’s driving modes. Selecting “Eco Pro” mode will change the throttle response and transmission shift points, focusing on fuel efficiency over performance. While it might make the driving experience less exciting, it can make a noticeable difference on long trips, especially on the highway.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s side doorjamb) and keep it consistent. Just as with any performance vehicle, regular maintenance is very important if you want the vehicle to run as efficiently as designed.

Reduce extra weight. Carrying heavy cargo hurts fuel economy. Remove any items from the vehicle that aren’t needed, especially heavy items in the trunk. While the effect might seem small, every bit helps, even in a vehicle engineered for speed, not efficiency. See X5 MPG across all years
to consider different models from across the X5 lineup.