19 MPG combined. That’s the number you’ll see if you’re considering a 2023 BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe. It’s not impressive or efficient, and it certainly won’t win any green awards. If you’re considering this car, you’re probably more interested in intoxicating performance, head-turning style, and luxury. This is a car often bought with emotion, influenced by a right foot eager to unleash 523 horsepower.

City and highway performance

The M850i’s EPA ratings are 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving where the 4.4L twin-turbo V8 is constantly working to move a heavy car. BMW’s engineers have done a good job integrating stop/start technology, but a large engine uses a lot of gas. The highway number is better, showing that the M850i can achieve respectable fuel economy when cruising at a steady speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range when possible, but even on the open road, a heavy foot can quickly lower the MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 BMW M850i xDrive Gran Coupe is $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which this car requires. It’s a significant expense, and prospective buyers should consider it in their overall ownership costs. Fuel prices fluctuate, so this could be a conservative or optimistic figure depending on the market. The all Bmw fuel economy data may help you compare these numbers, so you better gauge what you are signing up for financially.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving style and conditions. Expect to achieve numbers close to the EPA’s if you drive conservatively, using gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady pace. However, if you regularly use the M850i’s performance, those numbers will drop. Drivers who enjoy the V8’s sound will likely see averages closer to the mid-teens. Extended idling, cold weather, and aggressive driving habits can all negatively impact fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The M850i has rivals like the Mercedes-Benz CLS 53 AMG, which gets an EPA-estimated 21 MPG combined, offering slightly better fuel economy with a sporty driving experience. The Porsche Panamera 4S offers superior performance with a combined EPA rating of 20 MPG. Audi’s RS7, which comes in close with 18 MPG combined, is worth considering. For the M850i buyer, these differences are important in considering how much of a compromise on fuel consumption they’re willing to make for the BMW’s blend of luxury and driving dynamics. Comparing M850I MPG across all years might provide a broader perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive smoothly. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, as these actions use a lot of fuel. The M850i’s driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, can help maintain a consistent speed on the highway, improving fuel economy.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level specified on the doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The M850i is already a fairly heavy car, so avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk. Every extra pound contributes to increased fuel consumption.

Consider using the car’s ECO PRO mode. Though it does slightly dull throttle response, this mode optimizes the engine and transmission for fuel efficiency, and can make a noticeable difference on longer trips.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combining errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which consume more fuel. And consider the time of day and route to avoid traffic congestion, as idling in traffic consumes fuel without covering distance.