18 MPG combined. The 2023 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe isn’t bought for its fuel efficiency. It’s bought for its ferocious acceleration, its corner-carving ability, and its capacity to thrill on both the road and the track. This is a precision instrument designed to deliver an adrenaline rush. The fuel bill? It’s simply the cost to join a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe achieves 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. Those numbers reflect the car’s dual nature. In stop-and-go urban environments, the turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system work hard, resulting in lower efficiency. Out on the open road, with the engine breathing freely and the car settling into a comfortable cruise, the highway figure becomes more attainable.

These are optimal conditions. A heavy right foot will drastically reduce those numbers, something almost guaranteed given the M4’s addictive power delivery. This isn’t a car that encourages gentle driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe is $3,200 per year. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Of course, actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of fuel used.

While the M4 technically *can* run on premium unleaded, its performance is optimized (and the owner’s manual recommends) using higher octane fuel. This alone increases the annual cost. For the M4 buyer, worrying about a few extra dollars per fill-up is likely a very minor concern.

Real-world expectations

Expect something less than the EPA estimates. Owners report numbers ranging from the low teens to the high teens, depending on how and where they drive. Track days, spirited canyon runs, and frequent use of launch control will slash those figures. Sticking to highway driving and resisting the urge to exploit the engine’s potential can yield results closer to the EPA’s 22 MPG. Few M4 owners buy this car to conserve fuel. They buy it to use its performance, and that inevitably comes at a cost.

How it compares

The M4’s fuel economy is where you’d expect it in the high-performance coupe segment. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, with its now-discontinued V8, achieves a similar 17 MPG combined. The Audi RS5 Coupe, a direct competitor with all-wheel drive, manages a slightly better 21 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Carrera S, while offering similar performance, achieves around 21 MPG combined.

To see how M4 MPG across all years compares, check out our data. For potential buyers, this comparison highlights a choice: maximize fuel efficiency within the segment, or prioritize raw performance and accept slightly lower numbers. Buyers can also explore all Bmw fuel economy data to put the M4 into context with the brand’s offerings. The M4 buyer is generally prioritizing performance above all else. Otherwise, they’d likely be looking at a totally different class of vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maximizing fuel efficiency might not be the primary goal for most M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe drivers, but there are a few strategies to consider. The car offers various driving modes, including an “Efficient” mode. Engaging this mode will tone down throttle response, optimize shift patterns, and help squeeze every last drop of fuel from the tank. Ask yourself how much you need to drive like you’re on a racetrack.

Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and try to maintain a steady speed. The M4’s twin-turbocharged engine is incredibly responsive, so it’s easy to unintentionally use more fuel than necessary. A smooth, controlled driving style will make a noticeable difference without completely sacrificing the driving experience.

Tire pressures play a role. Make sure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, and adjust as needed.

Consider the fuel you use. While premium unleaded is acceptable, the engine is designed to perform best with higher octane fuel. Using the recommended fuel not only optimizes performance but can also improve fuel efficiency, as the engine management system can operate more effectively.