The 2018 BMW M3 CS, a limited-production, track-focused sedan that prioritizes performance, gets 19 MPG combined. Those who buy this car aren’t meticulously tracking fuel costs; this car is a statement about driving purity and unadulterated speed. The M3 CS buyer understands and accepts this trade-off, knowing they’re getting a razor-sharp driving tool that demands respect, and gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M3 CS at 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of urban driving, where the M3 CS’s potent turbocharged engine is constantly cycling through boost and generating heat. That 22 MPG highway number is more achievable during steady-state cruising, but even then, the car’s aggressive gearing and performance-oriented tuning keep it thirstier than a typical luxury sedan. Someone prioritizing efficiency wouldn’t be shopping for an M3, of any kind, let alone the CS. These figures are, realistically, secondary to the car’s overall mission.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2018 BMW M3 CS will cost $3,050 per year in fuel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and using the EPA’s projected national average fuel price. Factors like local fuel costs and personal driving habits can significantly alter this number, but it offers a reasonable baseline for comparison. To put it bluntly, a buyer fixated on saving money at the pump will be looking at all Bmw fuel economy data, and heading straight for the hybrid models, not the apex predator M3 CS.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy will vary based on driving style and conditions. Someone frequently indulging in the M3 CS’s performance potential, accelerating hard, using the paddle shifters, and pushing the car through corners, will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates. Conversely, a driver who spends most of their time commuting on the highway and resists the urge to unleash the engine’s full potential may approach or even slightly exceed the 22 MPG highway figure. It’s crucial to remember that the M3 CS is designed to be driven hard, and its fuel economy reflects that reality. Aggression equals gas. Simple as that.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the M3 CS occupies a specific niche. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S sedan, with its 4.0L V8, delivers similar performance but offers slightly worse fuel economy, typically hovering around 18 MPG combined. The Audi RS5 Sportback, another performance-oriented vehicle, achieves around 21 MPG combined, making it a marginally more fuel-efficient option, but it also offers a different driving experience and a hatchback configuration. The Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, another fast four-door capable of around 19 MPG combined, offers a distinct Italian flavor the M3 CS lacks. These comparisons highlight that the M3 CS falls into a cluster of high-performance sedans with similar fuel consumption, where the choice ultimately boils down to driving dynamics, styling, and brand preference rather than marginal differences in MPG. See M3 MPG across all years, and you’ll note the CS is a little thirstier, again. If miles per gallon were even a top-three consideration, the BMW 330e plug-in hybrid would be far more relevant.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While optimizing fuel economy might not be the primary concern for an M3 CS owner, there are steps you can take to improve it slightly without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking whenever possible. The less you engage the turbocharger, the less fuel the engine will consume. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption.

Use the car’s driving modes judiciously. While “Sport” and “Sport+” sharpen throttle response and steering, they also increase fuel consumption. Opt for the “Comfort” mode during highway cruising or daily commutes. This mode relaxes the car’s characteristics and optimizes fuel efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specifications, found on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra weight in the car requires the engine to work harder, leading to increased fuel consumption. Clear out any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment. Every little bit helps, though let’s be real, you’d probably just remove the rear seats to fit a roll cage.

Consider using premium fuel from reputable stations. While the M3 CS is designed to run on premium gasoline, the quality of the fuel can vary. Using high-quality fuel from a reputable station can ensure optimal combustion and potentially improve fuel economy slightly.