19 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but that’s not the point of the 2016 BMW M4 GTS. This isn’t a car for sensible commutes or cross-country road trips. It’s a limited-production, track-focused car designed for carving apexes and shattering lap times. Fuel is not first on your list if you’re considering an M4 GTS, performance and exclusivity are more important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 BMW M4 GTS are 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The small difference between the city and highway figures shows the car’s high-strung nature. Its twin-turbocharged 3.0L inline-six needs to be worked to deliver its best, which hurts efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. On the open road, achieving 23 MPG requires restraint, a challenge given the car’s enticing performance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW M4 GTS at $2,763. This figure is calculated using an estimated 15,000 miles driven per year and assumes the use of premium fuel, which is mandatory for optimal performance in the M4 GTS. National average fuel prices are used in the calculation. $2,763 may seem high compared to more economical vehicles but remember the intended use. Owners who regularly track their M4 GTS or drive it aggressively will likely exceed this figure.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy for the 2016 BMW M4 GTS will vary significantly depending on driving style and conditions. Owners who frequently engage the car’s performance capabilities, track days, spirited backroad drives, can expect fuel economy to dip well below the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who drive conservatively on the highway might see numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the 23 MPG rating. The M4 GTS begs to be driven hard, so expecting consistently high fuel economy is unrealistic. The M4 MPG across all years demonstrates typical efficiency ranges for this model.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance coupes of its era, the M4 GTS’s fuel economy is what you’d expect. The contemporary Mercedes-AMG C63 S Coupe, with its 4.0L twin-turbo V8, achieves a similar 18 MPG combined. The Porsche 911 Carrera S, although offering superior handling, delivers around 22 MPG combined, a slight edge but probably not a deciding factor for buyers in this segment. Even the more track-focused Porsche 911 GT3 manages around 15 MPG city/20 MPG highway, similar total consumption for those with a taste for precision handling. These comparisons show that high performance comes with a fuel economy penalty. Buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency will likely look to different segments entirely. To view all Bmw fuel economy data, you can use our site’s tools.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy may not be a primary concern for M4 GTS owners, there are steps that can be taken to minimize fuel consumption without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. One simple approach is to avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Let the car build speed gradually and anticipate traffic flow to reduce the need for sudden stops.

Use the M4 GTS’s driving mode settings wisely. Sport and Sport+ modes enhance throttle response and shift speeds for performance driving, Comfort or Eco Pro modes can improve fuel efficiency during everyday driving. These modes adjust engine mapping and transmission behavior to prioritize fuel conservation.

Ensure that the car’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check tire pressures regularly, especially before long drives or track days.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are more efficient when running than when idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. This simple habit can save fuel over time.

Keep the car properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure that the engine is running at peak efficiency. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel than one that is neglected.