The 2015 BMW M235i xDrive’s 23 MPG combined fuel economy won’t set any records, but it’s unlikely to deter its target audience. This is a compact performance coupe with a strong turbocharged inline-six engine and all-wheel drive. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, but the driving experience is more important.

City and highway performance

The EPA fuel economy estimates for the 2015 M235i xDrive are 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city number is acceptable for an engine with 320 horsepower and the inefficiencies of stop-and-go traffic. The highway number is more respectable, showing that the M235i xDrive can cruise comfortably and efficiently on longer journeys, especially when driven carefully. However, this car is fun to drive fast, and pushing the engine hard will quickly drop you below that 30 MPG figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 BMW M235i xDrive to be $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The M235i requires premium fuel, and changes in gasoline prices can impact this number. Drivers who often drive fast should expect to spend more than $2,500 per year.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a useful benchmark, but your mileage may vary and probably will. The M235i xDrive’s real-world fuel economy depends on driving style and conditions. Drivers who accelerate quickly or who frequently drive in congested urban areas are likely to see figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. Those who drive mostly on the highway and adopt a more conservative approach can realistically achieve, or even slightly exceed, the 30 MPG highway estimate. Access M235I MPG across all years for other model year comparisons.

How it compares

Compared to other performance coupes, the 2015 M235i xDrive’s fuel economy is competitive. The Audi S3, another all-wheel-drive performance vehicle, gets around 26 MPG combined with a smaller 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The BMW 228i xDrive, which has less power and a less aggressive suspension, also gets 26 MPG combined. The Infiniti Q60 coupe (non-Red Sport) with its 3.7L V6 gets around 22 MPG combined. These comparisons are important for buyers balancing performance with fuel costs. If fuel economy is a higher priority, consider looking at all Bmw fuel economy data, as some models have very different MPG figures.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Try not to accelerate hard all the time. The M235i xDrive is fun to drive, and its turbocharged engine delivers immediate power, but careful acceleration and steady speeds can improve fuel economy. Gentle acceleration will keep the turbo from using extra fuel.

Use the M235i xDrive’s driving modes. The Eco Pro mode optimizes various vehicle settings, including throttle response and shift patterns, to prioritize fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce the car’s performance feel, it can make a difference on longer highway trips.

Make sure to maintain the car, especially tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure to maximize efficiency and extend tire life.

Avoid idling. Modern engines are designed to run efficiently even under load, so idling consumes fuel without any benefit. If you anticipate a wait of more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine.