20 MPG combined is not the M850i xDrive Coupe’s primary selling point, nor should it be. This is a grand touring machine powered by a snarling 4.4L twin-turbo V8, designed to make cross-country journeys in a cocoon of leather-lined luxury easy. Its buyers prioritize performance, style, and exclusivity. Fuel efficiency is simply a factor they acknowledge, not one that dictates their purchase.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this M850i achieves 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The urban number reflects the engine’s thirst when subjected to stop-and-go traffic and constant acceleration from a standstill. The highway figure is more palatable, showing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds, benefitting from the eight-speed automatic transmission’s tall gearing. The all-wheel-drive system also impacts fuel economy, adding weight and frictional losses compared to a rear-wheel-drive configuration. However, it delivers superior all-weather traction and handling, which is valuable to many buyers. Click to explore M850I MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 BMW M850i xDrive Coupe at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage allocated to city and highway driving, and assumes national average fuel prices. The actual cost will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline used. The M850i, with its high-performance engine, requires premium fuel, which further contributes to its higher running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can differ significantly. Aggressive driving habits, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling will undoubtedly reduce fuel efficiency. Conversely, careful acceleration, consistent speeds on the highway, and proactive use of the car’s driving modes can edge the MPG closer to the official figures. Owners reporting from online forums suggest that combined MPG in the low 20s is achievable with mindful driving, while those who frequently exploit the V8’s power will see numbers closer to the mid-to-high teens.

How it compares

The M850i occupies a niche between performance coupes and luxurious grand tourers, so direct comparisons are challenging. The Mercedes-Benz S560 Coupe, with its 4.0-liter V8, achieves a similar 17 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Porsche 911 Carrera 4S, a sportier alternative, manages 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Even BMW’s own M5 Competition sedan, with its similar engine and performance focus, achieves slightly better numbers around 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. These variances are largely attributable to differences in weight, engine tuning, and aerodynamic profiles. Prospective buyers should consult all Bmw fuel economy data when researching overall ownership costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Exploit the M850i’s drive mode settings. Selecting “Eco Pro” mode optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency. It reduces throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, helping to save fuel in less demanding driving scenarios.

Monitor your driving habits. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fuel consumption. The car’s instrument cluster provides real-time fuel consumption data, offering valuable feedback on driving behavior.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Maintaining the recommended tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel economy and extending tire life. Check tire pressures regularly, especially before long journeys.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine when stopped for more than a minute or two. The M850i’s automatic start/stop system helps to reduce idling automatically in many situations.