I've had three M54 engines, 1 N52, and 1 N54, in my last five vehicles. All BMW six cylinders. They all used some oil, but the M54 in the X5 used twice as much as any of the others. I think the weight of the vehicle is a factor, the engine is just working harder.

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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White

Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue