17 MPG combined won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, but that’s hardly the point of the 2024 BMW X4 M Competition. This isn’t a vehicle for those who prioritize economy. It’s a performance machine disguised in a coupe-like SUV body, aimed at drivers craving speed, agility, and exclusivity. The X4 M Competition exists to deliver thrills, and its fuel consumption is simply what its target demographic is willing to pay to be part of the M club. They want a statement piece, one that backs up its aggressive looks with serious power and that power comes at a cost.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the X4 M Competition at 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of a high-performance engine working hard to move a fairly heavy vehicle. Stop-and-go city driving, with its constant accelerations, is particularly punishing on fuel economy. The highway figure, while slightly better, still lags behind more traditionally efficient SUVs, even those with less powerful engines. Why? Those frequent bursts of acceleration to pass slower-moving traffic, or simply to enjoy the engine’s responsiveness. Such demands take fuel. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), while incredibly capable, still prioritizes swift shifts for optimal performance over squeezing out every last drop of fuel.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 BMW X4 M Competition at $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. This number puts the X4 M Competition in the upper echelon of fuel expenses compared to other vehicles. Owners should factor this cost into their budget, especially if they anticipate exceeding the average mileage or live in an area with higher fuel prices. The X4 M Competition also demands premium fuel, further increasing the annual running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the X4 M Competition can vary significantly depending on driving style and conditions. Aggressive driving, frequent use of the Sport and Sport+ modes, and extended periods of idling will all contribute to lower MPG. A more conservative driving style, prioritizing smooth acceleration and consistent speeds, can potentially yield figures closer to the EPA estimates, though still never exceptional. Do not expect to consistently achieve 20 MPG on the highway unless you are being very careful in your driving habits.

How it compares

The X4 M Competition lives in a competitive segment. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe, another performance-oriented SUV, offers similar levels of power and similar fuel economy figures, hovering around 16 MPG combined. The Porsche Macan Turbo is a slightly more efficient option, achieving around 19 MPG combined, but sacrifices some power compared to the X4 M Competition. Even within the BMW family, glancing at X4 MPG across all years shows only minor deviations with this model and the non-M X4 deliver vastly different performance and driving experiences. Ultimately, buyers considering the X4 M Competition are typically less concerned with fuel economy than with performance and exclusivity, placing it in a distinct category where efficiency is less important. Comparing it to a more mainstream SUV simply wouldn’t be fair, or relevant to the target buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the X4 M Competition isn’t designed for maximum fuel efficiency, there are still ways to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions put a significant strain on the engine and deplete fuel quickly. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway, using cruise control when possible, can also improve fuel economy.

Use the X4 M Competition’s driving modes. While the Sport and Sport+ modes enhance performance, they also increase fuel consumption. Choosing the Comfort or Eco Pro modes, when possible, can help to optimize fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. They alter the engine mapping and throttle response, encouraging a smoother, more fuel-conscious driving style.

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Consider removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle. The X4 M Competition is already a heavy vehicle, and carrying around extra cargo only makes it worse. Removing unnecessary items from the trunk and rear seats can help to improve fuel economy, even if only a little.

Finally, explore all Bmw fuel economy data from across its model range. This will give you a broader understanding of the MPG that BMW vehicles deliver.