16 MPG combined is what you can expect from a 2016 BMW M6 Convertible with the 4.4L V8. To be clear, most people don’t buy an M6 Convertible because it gets great gas mileage. This car is made for performance, open-air driving, and exclusivity. The fuel economy is just the cost of owning this kind of high-performance convertible.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M6 Convertible gets 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The small difference between city and highway MPG means even in stop-and-go traffic, the fuel economy won’t drop far below the official rating, but the M6’s thirst becomes obvious when you drive it hard, whether you’re in town or on the open road. The automatic (AM-S7) transmission offers fast shifts, but is geared to maximize power, not save gas. Expect the fuel gauge to drop after a fun drive on city streets or a top-down run.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 BMW M6 Convertible is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average national gas prices. Your fuel costs might be different depending on how you drive, local gas prices, and how often you give in to the urge to push the M6. Drivers who spend more time on the highway or are careful with the throttle might see slightly lower costs. But drivers who often accelerate aggressively or spend most of their time in city traffic should expect to pay more.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides an estimate, but real-world MPG can vary. Factors like driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can affect fuel consumption. Owners who prioritize performance and often the M6’s power will likely see MPG numbers lower than the EPA estimates. Those who drive more calmly and spend more time on the highway might get numbers closer to the official ratings. Getting the EPA’s 16 MPG combined rating will require effort and a willingness to restrain the M6’s athleticism. Also be sure to check out M6 MPG across all years to get a sense of how this vehicle’s fuel economy fares over time.

How it compares

The M6 Convertible is in a category where performance is often more important than fuel efficiency. Consider the Mercedes-AMG SL63, its closest competitor. The SL63, with a similar V8 engine, gets about the same EPA ratings. A Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet offers similar performance, but gets slightly better gas mileage, around 19 MPG combined, showing the efficiency of its turbocharged flat-six engine. What this comparison shows is that buyers in this category are focused on performance and brand recognition, not fuel economy. The slightly lower MPG numbers of the M6 Convertible compared to some competitors probably won’t matter to its target buyer, who values BMW’s driving, design, and how it feels to drive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The M6 Convertible’s engine responds to driving style. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic can reduce fuel consumption. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and hold a steady throttle when you can.

Tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency. Keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This lowers rolling resistance and improves fuel economy, while also improving handling and tire life.

The M6’s automatic transmission has different driving modes. “Efficiency” or “Comfort” mode softens throttle response and changes shift points for fuel economy. Save “Sport” and “Sport+” modes for when you want to use the car’s full potential.

Regular maintenance is essential for good fuel efficiency. Keep your engine tuned, your air filter clean, and your fluids at the right levels. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and uses less fuel.

Reduce weight. Extra cargo in the trunk or passenger area adds weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need to lighten the load and improve efficiency. For all Bmw fuel economy data, look to FuelEconomyHub for specifications of other models.