22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but the number is almost irrelevant to the buyer of a 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe. These owners prioritize a blend of design, exhilarating performance, and all-weather confidence. Fuel economy is a consideration, certainly, but it’s far down the list compared to the car’s stunning silhouette and the potent 3.0L turbocharged inline-six under the hood.

City and highway performance

The 640i xDrive Gran Coupe earns its 19 MPG city rating through a combination of factors. Stop-and-go traffic inevitably takes a toll on any vehicle, and the BMW’s curb weight of around 4,300 pounds certainly doesn’t help. However, the smooth 8-speed automatic transmission helps reduce some of the fuel consumption by quickly finding the optimal gear. On the open road, those same attributes contribute to a more respectable 28 MPG highway figure. The engine settles into a relaxed cruise, and the aerodynamics of the Gran Coupe’s sleek body come into their own, reducing drag and maximizing efficiency. A long weekend trip will see fuel economy noticeably improve compared to daily city driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW 640i xDrive Gran Coupe is $2,650. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price. Naturally, individual fuel expenses can vary depending on driving habits and local fuel costs. Owners who drive predominantly in the city or have a heavier foot on the accelerator will likely see a higher annual fuel bill than those who mostly cruise on the highway. You can see all Bmw fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Many 640i xDrive Gran Coupe owners report figures slightly below the official ratings, especially in urban environments. This is a reflection of realistic driving conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth, consistent driving and avoid rush-hour congestion may find themselves exceeding the EPA estimates. For more information, look up 640I MPG across all years.

How it compares

In the realm of luxury four-door coupes, the 640i xDrive Gran Coupe’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of the pack. For example, the Audi A7 3.0T quattro, a direct competitor, earns an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined, mirroring the BMW’s figure. The Mercedes-Benz CLS450 4MATIC achieves a slightly better 25 MPG combined. These differences, though seemingly small, can add up over time. However, buyers in this segment are often willing to trade a few MPG for the specific driving dynamics, styling, and brand cachet offered by each model. A buyer cross-shopping these vehicles will likely prioritize factors beyond mere fuel cost.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the BMW’s ECO PRO driving mode, which re-maps the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly dull the car’s performance, it can measurably improve MPG, especially during city driving. It’s a simple way to reduce fuel consumption without significantly altering your driving style.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified on the doorjamb sticker. This simple maintenance step can make a surprising difference in fuel economy.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and prolonged idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. This is especially relevant in urban environments with frequent stoplights and traffic congestion.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid rush-hour traffic and congested areas. Stop-and-go driving is the enemy of fuel efficiency. By opting for less congested routes, even if they are slightly longer, you can maintain a more consistent speed and improve your MPG. Use navigation apps to identify and avoid traffic bottlenecks.