The 2017 BMW 650i Coupe with its 4.4L V8 engine gets 19 MPG combined. Buyers considering a sleek, powerful grand tourer like the 650i likely aren’t mainly concerned with fuel efficiency. This car prioritizes effortless power, a luxurious driving experience, and making a statement. The fuel consumption is part of the cost for those who value performance and prestige.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates show where the 650i’s fuel consumption is most evident. In the city, expect around 17 MPG. This reflects stop-and-go driving, where the V8 is constantly working. On the open highway, that number increases to a more palatable 24 MPG. This difference shows the 650i’s strength as a long-distance cruiser. On the open road, the engine operates comfortably, allowing for more efficient operation. Of course, that 24 MPG figure can easily drop if you accelerate aggressively, and most drivers will be tempted.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW 650i Coupe at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. While fuel prices change, this provides a benchmark for understanding the financial impact of owning a V8-powered luxury coupe. For some, this cost will be small compared to the total ownership expenses. For others, it will be a significant factor that reinforces the decision to prioritize performance over frugality. See all Bmw fuel economy data to compare this model to other offerings by the brand.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world fuel economy often varies. Factors like driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure can affect the numbers seen at the fuel pump. A heavy foot will result in much lower MPG, while relaxed driving habits can bring you closer to the EPA estimates. Don’t be surprised if your average is slightly lower than 19 MPG, especially with frequent city driving or aggressive acceleration. Consider this a baseline, not a guarantee.

How it compares

Fuel economy varies in the luxury coupe segment. The Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe from the same year, also with a V8, achieves similar figures, around 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Reducing engine size can improve fuel economy. The Audi S5 Coupe, with its supercharged V6, gets around 21 MPG combined. For those prioritizing efficiency, even within this niche, the BMW 430i Coupe delivers much better MPG, closer to 28 MPG combined, but with lower performance. These comparisons highlight what a 650i buyer accepts: a trade-off between performance and fuel economy that favors the former. Compare 650I MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 650i isn’t about squeezing every last mile out of a gallon, some practices can help optimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The smooth and responsive nature of the engine means you don’t need to push it hard to make swift progress. Gentle inputs will translate into better fuel economy, without sacrificing much of the driving experience.

Regular maintenance can also help. Ensure your tires are properly inflated and that your engine is running well, and follow the factory-recommended service schedule. A well-maintained engine will operate more efficiently than one that’s neglected. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, contributing to slightly better MPG.

Use the car’s driving modes to your advantage. Eco Pro mode, if equipped, can adjust the engine mapping and throttle response to prioritize fuel efficiency. It may reduce the car’s performance somewhat, but it can be helpful for longer highway trips. Experiment with the different modes and see how they affect your fuel economy.

Plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic whenever possible. Idling in traffic consumes fuel without covering any distance, so minimizing this type of driving can improve your overall fuel economy. Consider using navigation apps to find the most efficient routes.