17 MPG combined isn’t going to win the 2025 BMW X4 M Competition any fuel-sipping awards, and frankly, it wasn’t designed to. This is a high-performance coupe-SUV, a vehicle engineered to carve corners and deliver blistering acceleration more than conserve gasoline. The X4 M Competition caters to a specific buyer: someone who prioritizes power, handling, and striking design over efficiency. They understand, and largely accept, the trade-offs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the X4 M Competition achieves 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the constant stop-and-go driving that plagues urban environments, situations where the 3.0L turbocharged inline-six never gets a chance to stretch its legs. The highway number is slightly more palatable, but even then, the X4 M Competition encourages spirited driving, which inevitably leads to diminished fuel economy. The automatic transmission (listed as an S8 in EPA data) optimizes gear selection for efficiency, but with 503 horsepower on tap, the temptation to exploit that power is ever-present.

Annual fuel cost

According to EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2025 BMW X4 M Competition is $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Consider this a starting point, of course. Aggressive driving habits, longer commutes, and fluctuating fuel prices will all significantly impact the actual amount you spend at the pump. This is the cost of admission for a vehicle of this caliber.

Real-world expectations

Anyone expecting to consistently achieve the EPA estimates in the X4 M Competition is likely to be disappointed. Real-world driving conditions, especially the spirited kind this vehicle inspires, will likely result in figures closer to 13-14 MPG in combined driving. The relatively small fuel tank also means more frequent trips to the gas station. Owners should factor these higher real-world running costs in when budgeting for routine maintenance and consumable items.

How it compares

The X4 M Competition’s fuel economy slots it firmly into the lower end of the performance SUV spectrum. The Porsche Macan GTS, for example, achieves a combined 19 MPG with its twin-turbo V6. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S Coupe, another direct competitor, lands around 17 MPG combined, so the X4 M Competition is very much in line with its rivals. Even stepping outside the “coupe” segment, the Audi SQ5 delivers a more respectable 21 MPG combined. The choice comes down to priorities: power and driving dynamics versus fuel efficiency. Many considering the X4 M Competition will focus more on factors like horsepower and handling prowess than the X4 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the X4 M Competition isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are some strategies to help improve fuel economy. Use the adaptive drive modes judiciously. Selecting “Comfort” or even “Eco Pro” mode will dull throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, leading to less fuel consumption, and can be selected quickly through the car’s M Mode selector in the center console.

Avoid excessive idling. The turbocharged engine consumes a surprising amount of fuel while stationary. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turning off the engine can save a noticeable amount of fuel over time. Many newer BMW models have an automatic start/stop feature but some drivers find it intrusive and disable it.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the door jamb sticker.

Minimize aggressive acceleration and braking. The X4 M Competition’s strong engine is intoxicating, but resist the urge to constantly floor the accelerator. Smooth, gradual acceleration and gentle braking are much more fuel-efficient driving techniques. This car has race-ready brakes, but they’ll bleed speed (and fuel) in a hurry.