22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s not the main goal of the 2017 BMW M2. This isn’t a car purchased for its hybrid powertrain or lower gas consumption. It’s a compact sports car built for pure driving pleasure, and the fuel consumption reflects that priority. The M2 buyer is someone who appreciates a finely balanced chassis, a strong engine, and a connection to the road that’s increasingly rare in modern vehicles. They understand that performance comes at a price and are willing to pay for it at the dealership and at the gas pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 BMW M2 with the 3.0L inline-6 engine and automatic (AM-S7) transmission achieves 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The difference between city and highway MPG reflects the M2’s eagerness to be driven. The city figure represents stop-and-go traffic and short bursts of acceleration. The highway figure showcases what’s possible when the M2 is allowed to stretch its legs at a constant speed. Experienced M2 owners will tell you the highway estimate is achievable, but only with considerable restraint, a challenge when you have 365 horsepower available. The temptation to downshift and pass is always present, and doing that will quickly diminish your fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW M2 is $2,650. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, and using the national average fuel price. Remember that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for the M2), and fluctuating fuel prices. Aggressive driving, frequent track days, or simply living in an area with higher fuel costs will all increase your annual expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the 2017 BMW M2 can vary significantly. Drivers who frequently engage launch control, explore the upper reaches of the rev range, or spend considerable time at the track are unlikely to achieve the stated MPG. On the other hand, those who primarily use the M2 for commuting and prioritize fuel efficiency can likely meet or slightly exceed the EPA estimates. The M2’s fuel economy is directly proportional to your driving style. Drive it like a sensible sedan, and you will achieve reasonable MPG. Drive it like the sports car it is, and your fuel bills will reflect that decision. Owners should also be sure to track the M2 MPG across all years to see historical data.

How it compares

The 2017 BMW M2’s fuel economy sits in a predictable spot compared to its competitors. The Porsche 718 Cayman, another focused sports car, achieves around 24 MPG combined with its base engine, slightly better than the M2 but at a higher price point. The Audi TTS, with its turbocharged four-cylinder, offers around 26 MPG combined, prioritizing fuel efficiency somewhat over outright performance. The Ford Mustang GT, with its V8 engine, manages around 19 MPG combined, trading fuel efficiency for raw power and muscle car character. The M2’s compromise reflects its goal: to deliver thrilling performance without completely sacrificing fuel economy. For drivers curious about other BMW models, they can research all Bmw fuel economy data on the fueleconomyhub.com website.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking. The M2’s responsive throttle can be tempting, but smooth, consistent driving will save fuel. Use the car’s driving modes. Comfort mode tempers the throttle response and shift points, promoting a more relaxed and efficient driving experience for everyday commuting.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. The M2 is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, which can alert you to any significant changes.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra weight increases fuel consumption. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger area that are not essential. Even small amounts of weight can have an impact over time.

When possible, avoid short trips. Cold starts are particularly inefficient, as the engine requires more fuel to reach its optimal operating temperature. Combine errands into longer trips to maximize fuel efficiency.