19 MPG combined. That’s what you get with the 2024 BMW M4 Competition Coupe. This M4 isn’t about sipping fuel, it’s about controlled aggression, breathtaking performance, and a driving experience few cars can match. It’s for enthusiasts who prioritize raw power and track-day thrills over maximizing miles per gallon. Fuel costs are a secondary consideration for buyers who crave the M4’s visceral experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. To translate this to the real world requires understanding the M4’s personality. In urban settings, expect the MPG to hover even lower than the EPA estimates if you regularly tap into the 503 horsepower from the S58 engine. That inline-six likes to be revved; resisting the urge to unleash that power is a constant temptation. On longer highway trips, using cruise control and a gentle right foot might get you closer to the EPA’s 23 MPG figure. Realistically, even on the open road, the M4’s performance invites bursts of acceleration, which compromises fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2024 BMW M4 Competition Coupe. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel used (premium is mandatory for the M4), and fluctuations in gas prices. Consider this number a baseline; spirited driving will almost certainly increase your yearly expenditure at the pump.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. A more realistic expectation for mixed driving with the M4 is probably closer to 17 MPG. Aggressive driving will drop that number significantly. This car rewards drivers who explore its limits, and that exploration carries a fuel consumption penalty. The M4 Competition is engineered for performance, not economy. Owning an M4 isn’t just about the initial purchase price; it’s about accepting the ongoing costs, including that hefty premium fuel bill.

How it compares

Direct competitors to the M4, like the Audi RS5 Coupe, achieve similar fuel economy numbers. The RS5, with its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, is rated at 18 MPG combined, a negligible difference. A Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, with its now-discontinued 4.0-liter V8 (pre-2024 models), was significantly worse, averaging around 17 MPG combined. The new C63 S E Performance swaps the V8 for a hybrid-assisted four-cylinder, improving fuel economy but at the cost of some of the aural drama. The Porsche 911 Carrera, while not a direct competitor in terms of body style, offers a comparable performance experience and manages around 21 MPG combined, a slight edge in fuel efficiency. Someone interested in the M4 will not see the slight fuel economy advantage of those other cars as more important than the performance character which the M4 offers in spades. You can examine M4 MPG across all years to compare historical performance.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid unnecessary idling. The M4’s engine is designed to deliver power efficiently when moving, letting it sit and idle wastes fuel quickly. When waiting for a short period, switch the engine off, it’s a simple way to make a small difference over time.

Be mindful of throttle inputs. The M4’s performance is addictive, but hard acceleration burns fuel rapidly. Smooth, gradual acceleration will yield better fuel economy without sacrificing too much driving pleasure. Use the car’s configurable drive modes to select the “Efficient” powertrain setting when you want to be more mindful of fuel usage, but don’t ignore the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” settings completely. These are what the car was designed for, and maximizing fuel economy at the expense of enjoyment defeats the point of owning a performance machine such as this.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the specifications listed on the tire placard, inside the driver’s side door jamb. Even small deviations from the recommended pressure can impact fuel consumption.

Service your car regularly. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the factory-recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A neglected engine will not perform optimally.

Consider the weight you carry. Carrying unnecessary items in your trunk adds weight to the vehicle, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary cargo to improve your MPG. Consider the impact of aftermarket wheels; while they can improve handling and appearance, they often weigh more than the original factory wheels.

Ultimately, you don’t buy an M4 to save money on gas. You buy it for the thrill, the prestige, and the sheer driving pleasure. The fuel consumption is the price of admission. Hopefully, that information helps you understand all Bmw fuel economy data.