BMW X3 xDrive35i
21 MPG The 2017 BMW X3 xDrive35i is EPA-rated at 21 MPG combined (19 city / 26 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 714 gallons, $2286 a year in fuel, or $0.152 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2011–2017 run it averages 21 MPG, essentially flat across 7 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.119 | $1190 | $1786 | $2381 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.143 | $1429 | $2143 | $2857 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.152 | $1524 | $2286 | $3048 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.167 | $1667 | $2500 | $3333 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.190 | $1905 | $2857 | $3810 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.214 | $2143 | $3214 | $4286 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.238 | $2381 | $3571 | $4762 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 418 | 1 |
| 2016 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 416 | 1 |
| 2015 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 416 | 1 |
| 2014 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 416 | 1 |
| 2013 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 416 | 1 |
| 2012 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 423 | 1 |
| 2011 | 21 MPG | 19 | 26 | $3650 | 423 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 130 small sport utility vehicle 4wd models tracked here, the BMW X3 xDrive35i ranks 106 on current figures, against a class average of 29.3 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Cadillac XT6 AWD (21.5), Genesis GV70 AWD (21.5), Cadillac XT5 AWD (22), Jeep Cherokee 4WD Active Drive II (22), Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk 4WD (22).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 418 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.3 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the BMW X3 xDrive35i get?
The 2017 BMW X3 xDrive35i is rated at 21 MPG combined by the EPA — 19 city and 26 highway. Across all 7 model years in the database it averages 21 MPG, ranging from 21 to 21 depending on year and trim.
How much does a BMW X3 xDrive35i cost in fuel per year?
At 21 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 714 gallons — roughly $2286 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.152 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2017 model is $3650.
Has the BMW X3 xDrive35i become more efficient over time?
Barely. It sits at 21 MPG today against 21 in 2011 — essentially flat across 7 model years, with efficiency gains offset by weight and power creep.
Is the BMW X3 xDrive35i efficient for its class?
It ranks 106 of 130 in the Small Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD class on current figures, against a class average of 29.3 MPG. That is 8.3 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.