The 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive35is 3.0L 6-cyl gets 19 MPG combined, which won’t impress environmentalists but won’t matter to Z4 fans specifically. Buyers choose the Z4 for its sharp handling, potent twin-turbo inline-six, and retractable hardtop, not for great fuel economy. They choose it for the exhilarating driving experience, the open-air thrills, and the image of a stylish, meticulously engineered German sports car, knowing performance is more important than efficiency.

City and highway performance

The Z4 sDrive35is gets an EPA-estimated 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect its powertrain and the driving style it encourages. City driving, with stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, strains fuel consumption, especially with the responsive twin-turbocharged engine. The highway figure, while better, is still modest, partly because the engine’s power delivery encourages bursts of speed. Remember that the “sDrive35is” means it’s the highest-performance Z4 version offered at the time.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive35is at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with mixed city and highway driving, and using the EPA’s estimate for the average fuel price when calculated. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on how much you drive, what kind of driving you do (more city or highway), and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy with the Z4 sDrive35is may change depending on driving habits and conditions. Aggressive acceleration and frequent use of the engine’s power will lower fuel economy, potentially below the EPA’s city estimate. But moderate driving, particularly on long highway stretches, might yield figures closer to or slightly above the 23 MPG highway estimate. Given the Z4’s performance, expecting to consistently achieve or exceed the EPA figures is unrealistic.

How it compares

Compared to other roadsters and performance coupes, the 2015 Z4 sDrive35is’s fuel economy is typical for its class, but not a leader. For example, the Porsche Boxster, even with its base engine, typically achieves around 22 MPG combined, making it more efficient, although it costs more and offers a different driving experience. The Nissan 370Z Roadster lands close to the Z4 with around 20 MPG combined. See all Bmw fuel economy data, and it’s clear that driving pleasure, not efficiency, was the goal for these performance models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Fuel economy may not be the main concern for Z4 sDrive35is owners, but some techniques can help save gas. Smooth acceleration and avoiding excessive throttle inputs can make a difference, especially in city driving. The twin-turbo engine delivers torque at lower RPMs, so you don’t need to push it hard to maintain speed.

Maintaining proper tire inflation is a simple way to improve fuel economy. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling time, especially when the engine is cold. Modern engines warm up quickly, so idling is unnecessary and wastes fuel. If you expect a long stop, turn off the engine.

Consider using the car’s driving modes. While “Sport” or “Sport+” modes enhance responsiveness and driving feel, they can hurt fuel economy. Choosing “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” modes when possible can optimize fuel efficiency, especially on longer trips.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, helps fuel efficiency. A well-maintained engine runs smoothly and efficiently, improving fuel economy. Reviewing Z4 MPG across all years shows perspective on the Z4 platform’s efficiency.