19 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2016 BMW M4 Coupe for its fuel economy. This is a high-performance machine designed to thrill, and fuel efficiency is less important than lap times and adrenaline rushes. The M4 buyer craves razor-sharp handling, explosive acceleration, and the unmistakable snarl of a BMW inline-six, and they understand this has a financial cost and impacts fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates put the 2016 BMW M4 Coupe at 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. This discrepancy highlights the car’s dual nature. In stop-and-go traffic, the turbocharged engine works harder, frequently dipping into its boost range, leading to lower fuel consumption. Out on the open road, however, with consistent speeds and less need for rapid acceleration, the M4 can achieve a respectable highway MPG figure. The available seven-speed M-DCT automatic transmission (AM-S7) also plays a role. Its quick shifts and ability to hold the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds contributes to the highway numbers.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW M4 Coupe is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. Of course, drivers who spend more time in congested city environments or who enjoy using the M4’s full performance potential will likely exceed this estimate when calculating their actual overall fuel costs each year. Conversely, those who primarily use the car for longer highway trips could potentially see a slightly lower annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

Don’t treat the EPA numbers as gospel when behind the wheel of the M4. Driven with restraint, you might approach the stated figures, but the M4 begs to be driven hard. The temptation to unleash its power is ever-present, and frequent bursts of acceleration will inevitably lower your MPG. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can significantly impact real-world fuel economy. Expect to see numbers closer to the lower end of the spectrum if you regularly exploit the car’s performance capabilities. The driver of an M4 is more likely to be concerned with enjoying the ride than meticulously monitoring their MPG. If you’re hyper-focused on fuel savings, all Bmw fuel economy data includes less performance focused models to consider.

How it compares

Compared to other sports coupes in its class, the 2016 BMW M4’s fuel economy is about par for the course. The Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe, with its powerful V8 engine, typically returns around 18 MPG combined. At the opposite end, a Porsche 718 Cayman S might achieve slightly better fuel economy, perhaps around 22 MPG combined, thanks to its smaller, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. An Audi RS5 posts similar fuel economy; expect around 18 MPG combined. Ultimately, fuel efficiency is not an important factor for buyers in this segment. Performance and driving dynamics take precedence. Within the greater BMW family, you may want to check out the M4 MPG across all years to see how different generations stack up.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use efficient driving modes. The M4 often offers Driving modes like “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” that remap the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it won’t transform the M4 into a Prius, it can make a noticeable difference in MPG during everyday driving. Resist the urge to constantly unleash the car’s full power on the open road.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels (found on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual.) Correct tire pressure also improves handling and extends tire life.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to keep the engine running unnecessarily.

Minimize aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack, cargo carrier, or trunk, as these can increase aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel economy. Even things like aftermarket spoilers, unless carefully chosen for efficiency, can negatively impact MPG at highway speeds.

Gentle is the name of the game. The M4 is engineered to deliver peak performance at all times. However, by driving with a light foot and avoiding hard acceleration, you can squeeze more miles out of each gallon, especially in city driving. Imagine the enjoyment of getting better gas mileage figures in your car over all of your friends’ cars.