The 2016 BMW 328i with its 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder gets 27 MPG combined, a practical middle ground. It’s not a hybrid focused on ultimate efficiency, and it’s not a gas-guzzling performance car. Instead, it’s ideal for drivers who want both fun driving and reasonable fuel expenses. The 328i buyer wants a BMW sedan’s prestige and good handling, but they also care about fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 328i are 23 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects urban driving’s stop-and-go conditions, where the engine idles and accelerates more. The turbocharger helps overall performance but can lower city MPG if you often accelerate hard. The 35 MPG highway rating is easier to reach if you drive at consistent speeds and avoid rapid acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) performs well on the highway, keeping the engine at its most efficient. The 328i’s engine is designed to run on premium fuel for best performance, but it is not required. Using lower octane fuel, however, may reduce performance and fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW 328i 2.0L at $2,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year with a mix of city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices when tested. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the fuel type, and local fuel prices. Hard acceleration, frequent short trips, and long idling periods will increase fuel consumption, raising annual costs. Comparing your actual costs with the EPA estimate can help identify problems with your driving or car maintenance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good guide, the 2016 BMW 328i’s actual fuel economy can change. Many owners report numbers close to the EPA’s highway estimate and sometimes exceed it on long trips with careful driving. Reaching the EPA’s city estimate can be harder, especially in busy cities. Fast driving and often using the sport mode will also hurt fuel economy. Online BMW owner forums are a great place to see what drivers are getting and compare to 328I MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2016 BMW 328i’s fuel economy is similar in the competitive compact luxury sedan class. The 2016 Audi A4 2.0T (front wheel drive), for example, gets about 25 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz C300 from the same year, also with a turbocharged 2.0L engine, has similar fuel economy. Some rivals are slightly more efficient, however. The Lexus IS 200t provides less exciting handling than the BMW, but it often gets slightly better real-world MPG. Looking at all Bmw fuel economy data reveals its wide range of results. Options like diesel engines (in a 3 Series, if available) often provide a significant MPG advantage. The 328i’s fuel economy is normal for its class, but its strength is its better driving, a trade-off many buyers accept.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the 328i’s Eco Pro mode. This driving mode changes the throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control to prioritize fuel efficiency. It’s different from the sportier driving modes, but it can significantly improve your MPG, especially in cities.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressures when the tires are cold and inflate them to the levels on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. Consistent, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic can greatly improve fuel economy. The 328i’s turbocharged engine is responsive, but it uses more fuel when pushed hard. Use the throttle carefully, especially in the city.

Remove extra weight from the car. More weight increases the energy needed to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk and back seats to reduce the load on the engine.