24 MPG combined is what you get for open-air thrills and all-weather capability with the 2018 BMW M240i xDrive Convertible. People buy this car for the punchy 3.0L inline-six turbo engine, the secure grip of xDrive all-wheel drive, and the joy of top-down motoring; fuel economy is simply a reality they accept as a necessary compromise for a unique blend of performance and practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M240i xDrive Convertible at 21 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the turbo engine’s responsiveness can tempt drivers to dip into the power frequently. The highway figure is more achievable when cruising at consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8) helps, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both performance and efficiency. A heavy foot will easily drop those numbers to the high teens or low twenties, especially in urban environments.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 BMW M240i xDrive Convertible at $2,400. 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, using the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Your actual costs may vary depending on your driving habits and regional fuel prices. Expect to exceed that $2,400 figure if you primarily use the car for short commutes or spirited weekend drives.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the M240i xDrive Convertible will depend heavily on driving style and conditions. Drivers who prioritize fuel conservation can likely match or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates with careful throttle control and minimal use of the “Sport” driving mode. However, the car’s performance capabilities often encourage a more aggressive driving style, leading to fuel economy figures closer to the low 20s overall. For many M240i Convertible owners, the trade-off between fuel efficiency and driving enjoyment is an easy one to make. Performance trumps pure MPG.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the M240i’s fuel economy is reasonable considering its performance. The Audi S3 Cabriolet, another turbocharged all-wheel-drive convertible, achieves around 22 MPG combined, a slight disadvantage. The BMW Z4 M40i, with its more powerful engine, comes in around 25 MPG combined. Those considering slightly less performance-oriented options might look at a front-wheel-drive convertible like the Mazda MX-5 Miata, which achieves around 30 MPG combined, but sacrifices the M240i’s all-weather capability and straight-line speed. If you want to compare all Bmw fuel economy data, you can see how the M240i xDrive Convertible fares across the lineup. Or, for more granular model-specific information, research M240I MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” driving modes to dial back throttle response and optimize shift points for fuel efficiency. These modes don’t reduce power; they simply provide a more relaxed and efficient driving experience for everyday commuting.

Maintain a consistent speed on the highway and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The M240i’s turbo engine responds well to smooth inputs so you’ll get better fuel economy when you resist the urge to constantly dip into the boost.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, negatively impacting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature fluctuations.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Removing extra cargo and luggage can improve fuel efficiency, even if only marginally. Every pound counts, especially when accelerating from a standstill.

Consider how often you use the M240i as a daily driver. If you have an alternative vehicle for commuting, reserving the M240i for weekend drives or special occasions can help minimize fuel consumption and maximize the enjoyment of each drive.