The 2020 BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe, with its 4.4L 8-cylinder engine, achieves 20 MPG combined. It’s no Prius, and buyers of this four-door coupe understand that. The M850i Gran Coupe is a statement of performance, luxury, and a disregard for the ordinary. Fuel economy is clearly secondary to the thrill of a twin-turbocharged V8 that sends relentless power to all four wheels.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates rate the M850i Gran Coupe at 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect how the car encourages you to drive. Around town, the temptation to tap into that instant torque is always there, leading to quick bursts of acceleration that use up fuel. On the open road, the 8-speed automatic transmission helps hold reasonable RPMs at cruising speeds, but the car’s size and weight, along with air resistance at higher speeds, keep it from reaching truly impressive highway MPG. The numbers aren’t terrible for this level of performance, but those considering a purchase should be aware.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe at $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium unleaded gasoline. Individual costs will change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway miles. Someone who often uses launch control or drives mostly in congested areas can expect to exceed this estimate. The buyer of an M850i might not worry about gas prices, but it’s a real cost anyway.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a starting point, but real-world MPG often differs. Drivers with a lead foot or those who frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic may see lower numbers. Conversely, those who accelerate smoothly and spend more time on the highway might achieve slightly better MPG. The BMW’s onboard computer shows real-time MPG, allowing drivers to monitor fuel consumption and adjust driving, but most M850i drivers don’t buy this car for its fuel economy.

How it compares

The M850i Gran Coupe occupies a unique space, somewhere between a luxury sedan and a high-performance coupe. The Porsche Panamera 4S, with its 2.9L twin-turbo V6, gets around 21 MPG combined, according to the EPA, giving it an advantage. The Mercedes-AMG CLS 53 offers about 23 MPG combined from its turbocharged inline-6 with mild hybrid assist, which again beats the BMW. Even the Audi S7, with 21 MPG combined, does better than the BMW despite having similar performance. These are options for buyers wanting similar prestige and performance but better fuel efficiency. However, M850i buyers often prioritize its styling, exhaust note, and the specific BMW driving experience, so MPG is less important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The M850i Gran Coupe is for performance, but you can reduce its fuel consumption. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The twin-turbo V8 responds even with light throttle, so controlling the accelerator pedal can change fuel consumption, especially in the city.

Use the BMW’s driving modes. “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” modes will adjust the engine and transmission to prioritize fuel efficiency. Save “Sport” and “Sport+” for when you want to experience the car’s abilities. The difference can be noticeable, especially on longer trips.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, hurting fuel economy. Check the recommended tire pressure (on the driver’s side doorjamb) regularly and maintain the correct pressure. It’s a simple step that saves money and improves tire wear.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are efficient when running, but idling uses fuel without covering ground. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This matters especially in cities with traffic lights. For more on all Bmw fuel economy data, FuelEconomyHub has the information you need.

Consider a less powerful model. If fuel economy matters, explore other BMW models, or even explore the M850I MPG across all years. They might not have the M850i’s performance, but they can offer luxury and refinement with better MPG.