Over 3,300 miles of combined driving, during the last 40-days, I've averaged 23.7 mpg.

During a 2,800 mile long trip, I averaged 24 even. I was much higher, but during the last 200 to 300 miles, I became a bit more defensive in my driving as I entered the Bay Area corridor requiring my speed to increase and decrease on I-5.

At times I had to pass at 100, and then slow to 60.

There were segments when I was averaging 30 mpg. for 100 mile stretches at 80 miles per hour.

You're getting close to what I am. The last tank, was completely stop & go, and I'm getting 17.2 miles per gallon in San Francisco traffic.

I can make a graph, but the point is, I'm averaging slightly above what you are, it would appear.

70 mph. on the freeway, is the sweet spot for the vehicle and one can attain close to 30 mpg. at that speed. Unfortunately, I just can't drive that slow, and I don't feel it's safe to be passed.

I subscribe to the teachings that it's safest to be the fastest moving vehicle in your given traffic flow, so I drive quickly, but safely.

In any case, 24 to 26 long-term is what I'm approaching. As a side note, I never drive without the AC on, as I prefer arid air to humid air, as a personal preference, so that's probably responsible for 1-mile per gallon. The arid air also cuts down on mold growth, within the ventilation system, here in the Bay Area.

I'll experiment when I'm in dryer So. Cal. weather and AZ. I spend quite a bit of time in both locals.

Anyway, it's the highest rated SUV for mileage that I've seen. The only thing comparable, in its weight class right now is the Toyota Highlander.

It's real world mileage is about the same, but the car's handling characteristics are relatively unstable.

The Mercedes Diesels, are just a tad lower, and again the handling of the vehicles and the interior quality is shocking.

So, for now, I've got to hand it to BMW from a fuel mileage perspective. They're on top of the heap.

Their status there won't last long, but it's fun for the time being. Plus the diesel noise is awesome!

I work in Piedmont, CA quite often, one of the most expensive zip codes in the United States, and I can't tell you how many people have come up to me to ask about the vehicle.

The strange thing is, they've been women, women, with their kids in tow! They're so aggressive and excited that they knock on the window, and I think I've cut them off, but all they want to do is ask about the vehicle!

That's not happened with any vehicle I've owned for some years, and it's kind of neat. Then again, it's made me realize that I'm driving a chick's car! I need the aero kit and some 20" wheels, that set them straight ;-) .