17 MPG combined. Let’s be frank: nobody buys a 2023 BMW M8 Competition Coupe for its fuel economy. This is a brutally fast, supremely luxurious grand tourer designed for those who prioritize performance and exclusivity above all else. The fuel consumption is simply the price of admission to a world populated by thunderous V8s and blistering acceleration.

City and highway performance

The M8 Competition Coupe’s EPA estimates break down to 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. Consider this: its 4.4L twin-turbocharged V8 produces a staggering 617 horsepower. That engine, combined with an eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), delivers power to all four wheels through BMW’s xDrive system. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, undoubtedly made worse by the temptation to unleash the M8’s power at every opportunity. The highway number, while still not stellar, is more indicative of steady-state cruising, where the engine isn’t constantly being pushed to its limits. But even on the open road, a heavy foot will quickly see that 22 MPG figure plummet.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2023 BMW M8 Competition Coupe. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices. It’s a considerable sum, but a realistic portrayal of what owners can expect to spend fueling this high-performance machine. Given the M8’s premium nature, buyers should also expect to be using premium gasoline, further impacting the cost per gallon.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers provide a baseline, but real-world MPG often changes. Driven with restraint, consistent highway miles might yield slightly better than 22 MPG. Driven enthusiastically, as the M8 so readily encourages, the combined figure will likely dip below 17 MPG. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can influence fuel consumption. If you’re constantly engaging launch control and exploring the upper reaches of the tachometer, prepare for frequent trips to the gas station.

How it compares

Competitors in this rarified segment don’t exactly prioritize fuel efficiency either, but there are some nuances. The Mercedes-AMG S63 Coupe, with its own twin-turbo V8, posts similar figures, around 17 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, while offering comparable performance, manages slightly better economy, perhaps 18 MPG combined, owing to its smaller engine and engineering. Even an all-electric performance GT like the Porsche Taycan Turbo S can offer a guilt-free alternative to fuel consumption. Ultimately, the M8’s MPG aligns with its direct rivals, but falls short of some alternatives that still deliver incredible performance with potentially better efficiency. Review M8 MPG across all years for more details.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing every last mile out of a gallon might not be top of mind for M8 owners, some simple tactics can improve fuel economy.

Resist the urge to constantly accelerate hard. The M8’s power is intoxicating, but gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will significantly reduce fuel consumption. Use the car’s adaptive cruise control on the highway to maintain consistent speed, which ultimately will improve efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Considering the weight of the vehicle, keeping them properly inflated matters.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Although it may go against your instincts, it’s a simple way to conserve fuel, even in a high-performance vehicle.

Plan your routes wisely. Avoiding congested areas and taking routes with fewer stop-and-go situations can improve fuel economy. Use navigation apps to identify the most efficient route, even if it’s not the shortest in terms of distance.

Consider using a less aggressive drive mode when conditions allow. The M8 offers various drive modes, each with different throttle responses and shift patterns. Selecting a more conservative mode can tame the engine’s aggressiveness and reduce fuel consumption during everyday driving if you can live with the sacrifice, even temporarily.

Explore all Bmw fuel economy data on our site.