18 MPG combined is what anyone considering the 2024 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe can expect. This isn’t a car for those looking for the best fuel economy; it’s a statement, a high-performance machine, suitable for track days but usable as a daily driver. Potential owners are likely more interested in the twin-turbocharged inline-six engine producing 503 horsepower and the reliable M xDrive all-wheel-drive system than getting every last mile from a gallon of gas.

City and highway performance

The M4 Competition’s EPA ratings show its dual nature. The 16 MPG city figure reflects the frequent stops and starts of city driving, especially with the temptation to accelerate quickly at every stop light. On the highway, the 22 MPG rating is possible if the driver is careful. However, that’s hard to do, as the M4 is designed for high-speed driving. These numbers should be considered estimates, depending on how the driver controls the engine’s power.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Coupe at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year in both city and highway conditions, and using national average fuel prices. This is a good point of comparison, but individual costs will vary with driving style, regional fuel prices, and actual miles driven. Drivers who mainly use the M4 for weekend drives on winding roads will probably spend more, while drivers who drive conservatively and primarily commute on the highway might spend less. The $3,200 estimate is a good starting point for budgeting.

Real-world expectations

Those planning to frequently use the M4’s performance should ignore the EPA numbers. Track days or aggressive driving will reduce fuel consumption. Expect around 12-14 MPG in those conditions. On the other hand, careful driving and highway cruising might get slightly better numbers, perhaps around 24 MPG. Expect the M4 to consume a lot of premium fuel and aggressive driving will lead to more trips to the gas station. Owners generally accept this as part of owning an M4.

How it compares

The M4’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors. The Audi RS5 Coupe, with its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6, gets 21 MPG combined, which is slightly better. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe used to be a V8 which got horrendous MPG but its new hybrid setup gets better MPG which is why most buyers now opt for the M4. A Porsche 911 Carrera, with its rear-engine and performance design, gets around 21 MPG combined. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing is another competitor with a supercharged V8 that uses more fuel, rated at 15 MPG combined. For performance car enthusiasts, the MPG differences are often less important than the driving feel and brand image. Anyone comparing all Bmw fuel economy data and looking for a sporty Bmw, will find the M4 MPG across all years to see if there are comparable older models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The M4’s automatic transmission includes different driving modes. Choose “Efficiency” mode for less aggressive driving and better fuel economy. This mode reduces throttle response and shifts gears sooner, reducing RPMs and fuel usage.

Try not to constantly accelerate quickly. Accelerating gradually and maintaining a consistent speed on the highway can significantly increase fuel economy. The twin-turbo engine responds quickly to light throttle pressure, so driving conservatively requires some effort.

Keep tires properly inflated. Correctly inflated tires lower rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. Check tire pressures regularly and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations found on the door.

Reduce idling time. Letting the engine idle for a long time wastes fuel. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, shut off the engine. The M4’s engine restarts quickly and reliably when you’re ready to go.

Planning routes ahead of time can help avoid stop-and-go traffic, which hurts fuel economy. Choose routes with less traffic, even if they are slightly longer, to maintain a more consistent speed and burn less gas.