17 MPG combined will likely deter economy-minded car shoppers, but it’s irrelevant for those buying a 2023 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe. This four-door coupe prioritizes high performance and luxury over fuel efficiency. The fuel consumption is simply part of owning such an exclusive car.

City and highway performance

The 17 MPG combined breaks down to 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure is less appealing, as stop-and-go traffic forces the M8’s 4.4L twin-turbo V8 to consume more gas. The highway number is more reasonable, and achievable with a light foot and steady speed. However, high-speed driving will decrease that number as the engine works harder to overcome wind resistance at very high speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe at $3,400. This is based on 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city and 45% highway driving. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing, which can change. Expect that annual figure to increase if you live in an area with higher fuel costs or drive more aggressively. If you’re concerned about this number, a car in this class is probably not for you.

Real-world expectations

The official EPA figures are a useful reference point, but real-world MPG will vary depending on driving style, traffic, and weather. Drivers who frequently exploit the M8’s power will likely see figures below the stated numbers. However, more disciplined drivers who spend more time on the open highway may see slightly better results. The M8 Competition Gran Coupe is engineered for performance, and driving style significantly impacts fuel consumption. Consider researching past model years if you want to compare M8 MPG across all years. Broaden your search to all Bmw fuel economy data and you’ll see the wide range of the brand’s fleet.

How it compares

The M8 Competition Gran Coupe’s fuel economy is similar to its direct competitors. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, with its similar twin-turbo V8, gets a comparable 16 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera Turbo S is slightly better at 19 MPG combined, but it costs more. The Audi RS7 achieves 18 MPG combined, a slight advantage. The MPG difference is unlikely to be a deciding factor for someone considering these vehicles because these buyers prioritize performance, design, and exclusivity. They are willing to accept the fuel economy for the driving experience these cars provide.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

While fuel economy may not be a key concern for M8 owners, some actions can minimize fuel consumption without diminishing driving enjoyment.

Use the car’s driving modes. “Eco Pro” mode will remap the throttle response, adjust shift points, and modify the climate control settings. This prioritizes fuel efficiency. It won’t turn the M8 into a Prius, but it can help in everyday driving.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The M8’s engine consumes fuel even when stopped. Turn off the engine if you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

Anticipate traffic flow. Looking ahead and anticipating changes in speed allows you to avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking, which can hurt fuel economy. Smooth inputs are key to efficiency.