my e70 3.0si gets 18mpg now.

My '01 3.0 that I put 88K miles on used to get 15.4mpg in normal mixed driving. my '09 with only 3400 miles just got 16.5 mpg on last tank but has been averging 16.2 to 16.4.
I do use the manual shift much more than the old one because it shifts much more quickly and cleanly than the older version.

Highway mileage seems exactly the same in the mid 21 and low 22 mpg.

Many reasons.

Throttle calibration
Valvetronic
6-speed automatic
Gearing- it's taller.
slightly better aerodynamics (0,34Cd versus 0,35Cd I believe)
Reduced rolling resistance in tire choices.

International models:
Active aerodynamics
Brake Regeneration

Remember though: It's not what you drive, but how you drive. I have a long-term average of 8,9l/100km in my X3 despite many cold starts and short trips in a mountainous region.

My 07 4.8i just got 13.5 MPG on local stop and go type driving. The best I've done on the hwy is 19.4. That was 100% hwy except for pit stops.

after 3900kms computer shows 20.6mpg with 90% hwy. mostly 2 hr trips to a near by ski resort.

When BMW announced the E70 the official line was that the new V8 used 5% less fuel than the outgoing E53 model while the new 3.0-litre used 14% less and the diesel 7% less. All using the same EEC test method.

Reasons why: New engines, new transmissions, improved aerodynamics, etc.

In reality IMO there's nothing in with the V8 and the diesel, perhaps a tad with the petrol six. As JCL mentioned, it's all about driving style (and driving environment).

BTW: My 3.0d gets 27mpg (US) and I don't spare the horses...

I believe the e70 4.8 is exactly the same as the 06 and earlier e53 4.8.

my 07 4.8 gets ~14.5mpg. close to ~20k miles on the odo.

what about the 3.0\?

I too think the E70 gets better mileage then E53, nothing incredible, I have noticed though that with the extra gear in the new 6speed auto revs stay much lower, unless in DS, I'm sure this is a big part of it


....fraser I like your avatar photo