17 MPG combined. That’s what you get with a 2020 BMW M8 Competition Coupe. This figure might be alarming in a family sedan, or unacceptable in a hybrid, but for this machine, it’s arguably the price of admission. This car has a hand-built, twin-turbocharged V8 engine delivering over 600 horsepower to all four wheels. Fuel efficiency is secondary to the driving experience offered by this flagship performance coupe.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway for the M8 Competition Coupe. These numbers are baseline figures achieved under ideal testing conditions. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, which will likely be lower in real-world scenarios with heavy traffic and a heavy right foot. The highway estimate demonstrates the engine’s ability to cruise at reasonable speeds, but spirited driving will quickly reduce those numbers. The automatic transmission’s eight gears keep the engine in its sweet spot for both power and efficiency, but you’ll always want to unleash the V8’s potential.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2020 BMW M8 Competition Coupe. This figure is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Owners should see this as a guideline. Real-world expenses could vary widely, depending on driving habits and local fuel costs. Someone who regularly tracks the car or lives in an area with high fuel costs will likely exceed this estimate, while a driver with a lighter foot and longer highway commutes could potentially see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

Do not expect to consistently achieve the EPA numbers. The M8 Competition’s immense power and engaging sound encourage aggressive acceleration and high-speed cruising. The car’s all-wheel-drive system grips the road, making it easy to use the engine’s potential. This frequent use empties the fuel tank. Stop-and-go city traffic will almost certainly yield lower fuel economy than the EPA estimate, and even steady highway speeds won’t guarantee 21 MPG if you’re frequently passing or exceeding the posted speed limit. Anyone concerned about achieving optimal MPG should consider other options within all Bmw fuel economy data.

How it compares

The M8 Competition Coupe exists in a segment where performance often outweighs fuel economy. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, while a different body style, offers similar performance and delivers an EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, a direct competitor in terms of performance and price, manages a slightly better 17 MPG combined. Even within the BMW lineup, the M8 MPG across all years shows how priorities have shifted over time; earlier models might offer fractional improvements, but at the cost of reduced power and performance. Buyers in this segment are accepting of the M8’s fuel consumption because they’re prioritizing extreme performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Comfort or Eco Pro driving modes when possible. While these modes might dampen the throttle response and shift points, they significantly improve fuel economy in everyday driving situations. The M8 features customizable drive modes, allowing you to tailor the driving experience to the situation.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The M8 Competition’s reliable brakes can recover some energy through regenerative braking, but the biggest gains come from maintaining a steady speed and avoiding aggressive driving.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. The recommended tire pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Consider a less aggressive driving style; the car has a system to measure your ‘efficient driving’ versus your ‘sport driving’. It is fun to see how you drive and serves as a reminder of when you might be overdoing the throttle.

Ensure your car is properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, can help ensure the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and produces fewer emissions.