19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but let’s be honest: No one buying a 2020 BMW M4 Competition Coupe cares. They’re signing up for a track-capable thrill ride wrapped in a luxurious, albeit slightly controversial package, not a Prius. This is a car for drivers who prioritize performance above all else, accepting the fuel consumption as the price of entry into a world of blistering acceleration and razor-sharp handling. The M4 Competition is a statement, and that statement isn’t “I’m interested in lower fuel costs.”

City and highway performance

The city MPG rating for the 2020 M4 Competition Coupe is 17. This reflects the stop-and-go driving and frequent bursts of throttle that define urban environments. The M4’s eager twin-turbo inline-six begs to be unleashed, making it difficult to resist the urge to exploit every gap in traffic.

On the highway, the M4 fares slightly better, achieving 23 MPG. This improvement is largely due to the more consistent speeds and reduced need for aggressive acceleration. However, even on the open road, the M4’s performance-oriented nature means that fuel efficiency can quickly plummet with spirited driving.

Annual fuel cost

Based on EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW M4 Competition 3.0L 6-cyl is $3,050. This figure is calculated using the EPA’s combined MPG rating and assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with fuel prices based on the national average. It’s a sobering reminder of the financial commitment involved in owning a high-performance vehicle like the M4. Prospective buyers need to factor this cost into their budget, recognizing that it represents a significant ongoing expense in addition to the initial purchase price, insurance, and maintenance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the M4 Competition can vary significantly depending on driving habits and conditions. Drivers who frequently engage in aggressive acceleration, track days, or primarily drive in congested city environments will likely see fuel economy figures lower than the EPA estimates.

Conversely, those who primarily use the M4 for highway cruising and maintain a more conservative driving style may achieve fuel economy closer to or even slightly above the EPA ratings. Expect the onboard MPG readout to fluctuate wildly. The M4’s fuel economy will always be directly proportional to your enjoyment threshold.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2020 M4 Competition’s fuel economy lands somewhere in the middle of the pack. The Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe, with its hand-built 4.0L V8, typically achieves around 18 MPG combined. The Audi RS5 Coupe, using a 2.9L twin-turbo V6, manages a slightly better 21 MPG combined. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, with its Ferrari-derived 2.9L twin-turbo V6, is rated at 20 MPG combined. For those considering other BMW options, you can find all BMW fuel economy data on our site.

The slight differences in MPG figures between these high-performance coupes are unlikely to be a major deciding factor for most buyers in this segment. These buyers are willing to sacrifice some fuel efficiency for the sake of performance and driving enjoyment. You can also see M4 MPG across all years. The M4 is bought to be driven hard, not hyper-miled.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the M4 Competition isn’t designed for optimal fuel efficiency, there are steps owners can take to minimize fuel consumption and squeeze a few extra miles out of each tank. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed are key. Avoid sudden bursts of power and unnecessary braking. These actions can significantly impact fuel economy.

The less you treat the gas pedal like an on/off switch, the better the MPG will be.

Use the driving modes judiciously. While “Sport” and “Sport+” modes enhance throttle response and sharpen handling, they also consume more fuel. Opt for “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” mode for everyday driving to prioritize fuel efficiency. In some road conditions, you may want to consider leaving the car in “Comfort” mode, even if the steering feel isn’t ideal or the throttle response is more dull than other driving modes.

Proper tire inflation is critical not only for safety and handling but also for fuel efficiency. Regularly check tire pressures and maintain them at the recommended levels to reduce rolling resistance. This is especially key if you frequently drive the car on the track, since tire pressure will fluctuate as tires get hot.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that aren’t essential, as extra weight increases fuel consumption. This even goes down to the amount of fuel in the tank. Only fill up as often as you need to, versus filling up all the way every time.