Eighteen miles per gallon combined. Let’s be brutally honest: nobody shopping for a 2016 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible is prioritizing fuel efficiency. This is a car purchased for its effortless power, luxurious appointments, and the sheer drama of dropping the top on a sunny day. The fuel consumption is simply the price of admission to a world of opulent performance. It’s understood and accepted by the target demographic, and rarely the deciding factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 650i xDrive Convertible reveal the split personality of this grand tourer. Around town, expect 15 MPG, a figure that reflects the constant stop-and-go driving and the engine’s eagerness to unleash its 445 horsepower. On the open road, however, the number climbs to a more respectable 24 MPG. This highlights the car’s long-distance cruising capability, where the 4.4L V8 can settle into a more relaxed rhythm and the eight-speed automatic transmission finds its efficiency sweet spot. Hitting highway numbers depends heavily on throttle control, especially when you have that much power under your right foot.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. While this number can fluctuate depending on fuel prices and individual driving habits, it provides a benchmark for potential owners. It’s a stark reminder of the ongoing cost of owning a high-performance luxury vehicle, and should be factored into the overall budget for maintaining such a car.

Real-world expectations

The reality for most 650i xDrive Convertible owners will likely fall short of the EPA’s estimates, especially in city driving. The allure of the V8’s power and the rewarding exhaust note often encourages spirited acceleration, which inevitably impacts fuel consumption. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability. It also adds weight and rotational mass, contributing to a slight decrease in MPG compared to rear-wheel-drive alternatives. While some drivers might achieve close to 24 MPG on long highway trips, averaging above the EPA’s combined 18 MPG in daily use demands conscious effort and restraint.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2016 BMW 650i xDrive Convertible’s fuel economy is par for the course in this segment. The Mercedes-Benz SL550, with its twin-turbo V8, achieves similar figures, around 17 MPG combined. The Audi S5 Cabriolet offers a more efficient supercharged V6, catering to a different taste, prioritizing agility and overall value rather than outright power. Even other BMW models can be more efficient: View 650I MPG across all years to see how the range performs. The Jaguar F-Type R Convertible, with its supercharged V8, is notoriously thirsty, often struggling to reach even the 650i’s numbers. Ultimately, buyers in this class are willing to trade some fuel efficiency for the performance and prestige these vehicles offer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The 650i’s V8 is remarkably responsive, making it easy to trigger a downshift and unleash a surge of power. Applying a lighter foot to the accelerator, especially from a standstill, can significantly improve fuel consumption, particularly in city driving. Use the car’s Eco Pro mode to further optimize settings.

Maintain a consistent speed on the highway. The 650i xDrive Convertible is a superb long-distance cruiser. Engaging cruise control on long highway stretches minimizes speed fluctuations and promotes a steady fuel burn, helping to reach or even exceed the EPA’s 24 MPG estimate. Remember that every mile per hour over 60 exponentially decreases fuel economy.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and maintaining the recommended tire pressure not only improves fuel efficiency but also enhances handling and extends tire life. Check the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb for correct pressures.

Avoid unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in the vehicle increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and cabin to minimize the load on the engine and improve overall efficiency. This applies to any vehicle.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Following the recommended maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures the engine operates at its peak performance and minimizes fuel wastage. Review all Bmw fuel economy data to see how your car compares to similar models.