19 MPG combined is the price of admission to the exclusive club of high-performance coupes like the 2021 BMW M4 Competition. Nobody buying this car expects Prius-level fuel consumption, nor is it a relevant factor in the purchasing decision. M4 buyers prioritize raw driving pleasure, blistering acceleration, and a visceral connection to the road, and 19 MPG is simply tolerated as a byproduct of that experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 M4 Competition Coupe put city driving at 16 MPG and highway cruising at 23 MPG. This spread highlights the M4’s sensitivity to driving style. In stop-and-go traffic, the powerful 3.0L six-cylinder engine consumes fuel to deliver its responsive performance, while on the open road, the engine management system optimizes efficiency to achieve a relatively more reasonable 23 MPG. While 23 MPG on the highway is acceptable, the urban fuel economy is decidedly thirsty, reflecting the M4’s inherent performance bias.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 BMW M4 Competition Coupe is estimated at $3,050. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of the EPA’s testing. It’s a benchmark to allow comparison between vehicles, but understand that individual spending hinges entirely on your driving habits and local fuel costs. Aggressive driving or consistently premium fuel prices will push you above this $3,050 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, your real-world fuel economy in the M4 Competition will likely vary considerably. If you frequently exploit the engine’s 503 horsepower and engage in spirited driving, expect to see numbers closer to the city rating, or even lower. Conversely, if you primarily use the M4 for long commutes with minimal acceleration, you might approach the highway figure. However, the temptation to use the M4’s power will always be present, diminishing any attempts at maximizing fuel efficiency. Few M4 drivers buy the car to drive it economically.

How it compares

In the realm of high-performance coupes, the M4’s fuel economy sits alongside its competitors, each sacrificing efficiency for performance. The Audi RS5 Coupe manages a slightly better 21 MPG combined, prioritizing all-wheel drive traction. The Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe, with its ferocious V8, predictably lags behind the M4 at 18 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Carrera, a benchmark for sports car performance, achieves around 20 MPG combined, proving a lighter weight and different engine characteristics can nudge efficiency upward. Of course, those shopping for all Bmw fuel economy data will also find that the smaller M2 generally offers better MPG with less power. Ultimately, choosing between these vehicles comes down to priorities beyond fuel economy: handling dynamics, brand preference, and overall driving experience are much more important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly exploit the M4’s prodigious power. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed minimize fuel consumption. The more you dip into the power reserves, the further you will fall from the EPA estimates.

The M4 Competition comes equipped with various driving modes that affect throttle response and shift patterns. Selecting the “Efficiency” mode softens the throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, resulting in reduced fuel consumption. While it diminishes the M4’s raw performance, it’s useful for highway cruising or during mundane commutes.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check pressure regularly and adjust it accordingly based on the load.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds load, impacting fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the trunk or rear seats that are not essential. Even a few pounds can contribute to increased fuel consumption, especially in the city.

Consider the long-term perspective regarding M4 MPG across all years. The 2021 M4’s fuel consumption is a known quantity. If you accept it as a cost alongside the enjoyment, you’ll be satisfied. The performance is the point.