The 2017 BMW M6 Gran Coupe offers 16 MPG combined. No one buys this car for its fuel efficiency. They buy it for the intoxicating rush of its twin-turbo V8, the sculpted lines of its four-door coupe body, and the prestige of the M badge. The fuel bill is simply the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The M6 Gran Coupe’s EPA ratings are 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst during stop-and-go driving, made worse by its eagerness to accelerate from every green light. The highway number isn’t much better, a consequence of the car’s aerodynamic profile prioritizing style over ultimate efficiency, and the driver’s likely inability to resist the temptation to exploit the readily available horsepower.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 BMW M6 Gran Coupe at $3,600. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with an assumed fuel price reflecting the national average for premium gasoline. Remember, this is an estimate, and your actual costs will vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and how often you unleash the M6’s full potential. Given the nature of this car and its drivers, exceeding this estimate is almost a certainty.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a benchmark, don’t expect to consistently achieve 16 MPG in real-world driving. Owners who frequently enjoy the M6’s performance will likely see numbers closer to 12-14 MPG. Those who primarily use it for highway cruising, and can resist the urge to pass everyone in sight, might approach the EPA’s 20 MPG highway figure. However, restraint is a rare commodity behind the wheel of an M6.

How it compares

The M6 Gran Coupe’s fuel economy is predictably poor compared to its competitors. The Audi RS7, with its similar engine layout and performance aspirations, achieves around 18 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG CLS63 S, another four-door coupe with a potent V8 engine, offers comparable numbers. Even performance-oriented SUVs like the BMW X5 M and X6 M deliver similar or slightly better fuel economy, trading the Gran Coupe’s sleek silhouette for improved aerodynamics. These fractional differences are unlikely to sway a buyer already committed to the M6 Gran Coupe’s unique blend of style and performance. You can compare to M6 MPG across all years to see the historical data. Be sure to also check all Bmw fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel efficiency may not be a primary concern for M6 Gran Coupe owners, there are still ways to minimize consumption. Use the car’s driving mode selector to choose the “Eco Pro” mode, which optimizes engine and transmission settings for efficiency. It won’t transform the M6 into a Prius, but it can help squeeze a few extra miles out of each gallon.

Adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed. The M6’s powerful engine doesn’t require excessive throttle input for everyday driving; gentle acceleration will significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, switch off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance and can significantly impact overall fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Service the car according to BMW’s recommended maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine is running optimally and efficiently. A well-maintained engine is a more fuel-efficient engine.