19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any eco-car awards, and that’s perfectly fine because the 2021 BMW M2 Competition Coupe 3.0L 6-cyl wasn’t designed to sip fuel. This is a focused performance machine built for driving enthusiasts who prioritize exhilarating performance and razor-sharp handling over maximizing every last drop of gasoline. For these drivers, fuel economy is a secondary consideration, if it’s a consideration at all.

City and highway performance

The M2 Competition’s city MPG is rated at 16, a figure that reflects the engine’s eagerness and the driver’s likely temptation to exploit its responsiveness at every stoplight. On the highway, that number climbs to 23 MPG. This improvement is due to the engine operating at lower RPMs and a more consistent throttle application, but heavy-footed drivers will see that number plummet even on the open road. This car rewards spirited driving, which inherently impacts fuel consumption. The responsiveness is addictive, and squeezing every last drop of performance comes at a cost.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 BMW M2 Competition Coupe is $3,050. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage of those miles driven in the city versus on the highway, and using the national average fuel price. However, it’s critical to understand that this figure is merely an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary significantly depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Drivers who frequently engage in track days or spirited canyon runs will undoubtedly exceed this estimated annual fuel cost. And, the M2 Competition requires premium fuel, a detail that further increases running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world MPG for the M2 Competition will vary considerably based on driver behavior. A driver who commutes primarily on the highway, exercises restraint with the throttle, and adheres to speed limits might see figures closer to the EPA estimates. However, most M2 Competition owners aren’t buying this car for a fuel-efficient commute. They’re buying it for the thrill of driving. Expect to see real-world combined MPG in the 16-21 range under typical driving conditions, and potentially even lower during track days or extended periods of aggressive driving.

How it compares

The M2 Competition exists in a niche of compact, high-performance coupes, and understanding its fuel economy relative to its competitors is important. The Porsche 718 Cayman S, another performance-oriented coupe, achieves around 22 MPG combined, demonstrating a slight edge in efficiency. The Audi RS3, a similarly powerful but AWD sedan, gets around 22 MPG combined as well. All Bmw fuel economy data shows you this is on the lower end of their range. While these slight differences in MPG might seem insignificant on paper, they can add up over time, especially given the M2 Competition’s tendency to encourage spirited driving. However, for buyers in this segment, performance and driving enjoyment often outweigh marginal differences in fuel economy. Before buying, it makes sense to investigate M2 MPG across all years to ensure you have the right year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the M2 Competition isn’t designed for ultimate fuel efficiency, there are steps drivers can take to improve it. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking whenever possible. The twin-turbocharged engine delivers ample torque, so gentle throttle inputs are often sufficient for daily driving. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed will also reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.

Ensure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Tire pressure should be checked regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Use the car’s driving modes to your advantage. While “Sport” and “Sport+” modes enhance throttle response and steering feel, they also tend to encourage more aggressive driving. Selecting “Comfort” mode can help to smooth out throttle inputs and optimize fuel consumption during everyday driving.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives to maintain a consistent speed and reduce unnecessary throttle fluctuations. However, be mindful of traffic conditions and avoid relying on cruise control in stop-and-go situations.

Lastly, minimize aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary items from the roof or trunk. A roof rack or cargo carrier can significantly increase wind resistance and reduce fuel economy, especially at higher speeds.