24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for less gas, but it’s the price of entry for the 2018 BMW M240i Coupe. This isn’t a car bought by commuters concerned about lower fuel costs. It’s a car bought by enthusiasts who prioritize performance and driving pleasure. Those buyers understand the deal: they want a potent turbocharged inline-six, rear-wheel drive (or available xDrive all-wheel drive), and the balanced chassis dynamics that BMW has built its reputation on. Fuel economy is simply a secondary consideration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates aren’t wildly optimistic, but they do reflect the M240i’s capabilities in different driving scenarios. The city MPG falls to 21, reflecting the stop-and-go nature of urban driving and the frequent use of the turbocharger. The car’s eagerness to accelerate from every light takes its toll.

However, the highway figure climbs to a more respectable 30 MPG. This reflects the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, using its tall gearing and efficient engine management to conserve fuel when not under heavy load. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) helps maintain optimal RPMs, maximizing efficiency regardless of the driving demand. Those who spend a significant amount of time on the open road can expect to see figures closer to this highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW M240i Coupe at $2,400. This figure is derived from the EPA’s combined MPG rating, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and assumes national average fuel prices. It should be viewed as a guideline, as individual driving habits and fluctuating fuel prices will certainly influence real-world expenditures. Someone who drives primarily in the city, or has a lead foot, will likely exceed this estimate. Likewise, someone who drives mostly highway miles, and exercises restraint, will likely spend less. The figure is still useful for comparing the M240I MPG across all years against other performance vehicles.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy in the M240i can vary considerably. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and even ambient temperature can have a noticeable effect.

Owners who regularly exploit the engine’s 335 horsepower and engaging handling shouldn’t expect to consistently match the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic flow proactively might find themselves exceeding the official MPG figures.

Many owners report averages in the low to mid-20s in mixed driving, which aligns with the EPA’s combined rating, but individual results will invariably differ.

How it compares

Compared to other performance coupes, the 2018 BMW M240i’s fuel economy is competitive, but not class-leading. For example, a 2018 Audi S3, also with a turbocharged 2.0L engine, delivers a combined rating of 25 MPG. A comparable 2018 Infiniti Q60 3.0t gets roughly 22 MPG combined, making it slightly less efficient. Looking within the BMW family, other models with comparable power outputs often suffer in efficiency.

This difference matters primarily to those who are cross-shopping in the performance sedan or coupe segment, and who are willing to consider a less focused driving experience in exchange for slightly better mileage. See all Bmw fuel economy data here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, resist the temptation to bury the throttle at every opportunity. The M240i’s turbocharged engine responds eagerly to even moderate throttle inputs, so practicing smooth acceleration and maintaining a steady pace can significantly improve fuel economy. The engine’s torque allows it to cruise comfortably at low RPMs in higher gears.

Engage Eco Pro mode when possible, especially during highway driving or when navigating congested areas. This mode remaps the throttle response, reduces climate control energy consumption, and encourages earlier upshifts, all of which contribute to fuel savings. While it does slightly diminish the car’s responsiveness, it’s a worthwhile trade-off when efficiency is the primary goal.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consumes more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the driver’s side doorjamb. Consider using a high-quality tire inflator if you don’t already have one.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient, and idling for extended periods consumes fuel without contributing to forward motion. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.

Consider that adding an aftermarket performance exhaust or intake is not necessarily conducive to fuel efficiency. While enhancing certain driving aspects, the changes can negatively impact fuel economy by altering the engine’s intended airflow and fuel mapping. The M240i is already an efficient vehicle, so making such changes could diminish its positive attributes. For additional information, see M240I MPG across all years.