I have a US Spec 525i. Lately, with some highway and some stop and go New Jersey traffic, I've been averaging about 26-27 MPG, which I am quite happy with! I'm pretty fuel conscious (Thus my decision to purchase the 525) and light on the gas pedal.

Here is something I don't get though, the US-Spec 525i gives a 20/30 mpg rating, which seems pretty accurate in my few weeks with the car.

However, the UK-Spec 525i gives a "combined cycle" mpg of 38.2!!!! To my knowledge it is the same exact engine, and I know for sure that getting close to 40mpg out of this engine in stock form is NOT POSSIBLE! Am I missing something on the definition of "combined cycle"?

Could someone please explain this to me? It's frustrating to think that my English colleagues can be getting nearly 40 while I'm sitting at 27 ;)

As far as I know the only 5 series that gets that kind of MPG is the 520d.

I am not 100% sure, but I believe that it has to do with the fact that 1 US gallon = 3.78541178 liters and 1 Imperial gallon = 4.54609188 liters, therefore giving you the impression that you get more MPG in UK, while in reality they're about the same.

This might shed a little more light: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miles_per_gallon

Excellent post MrTarga. You just answered a question for me :).
Raj

This might be slightly OT, but I have a 523i (2.5l) and im getting 19/20mpg in the last 8weeks or so I've had it :(
99% of my driving is Urban & I dont drive like an idiot at all.

Worth Investigating?

My 07 525xi gets 24 around town and 28 or better on the highway. Actual mileage depends if I am driving in the mountains or on the straight and flat.

Mine is giving me 17 to 19 in town and 25 to 28 on highways..

My 525 HK spec is about 28mpg