17 MPG combined won’t win any awards, but for the 2019 BMW M5 Competition, it’s part of the deal. This isn’t a Prius; it’s a brutally powerful four-door sedan designed to blur the lines between supercar performance and everyday usability. The buyer considering an M5 Competition understands this tradeoff, and they’re willing to pay the price at the pump for the thrills the car provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M5 Competition at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the M5’s strong power is largely wasted and its hefty curb weight works against it. The highway number is more palatable, but still far from stellar. The M5’s twin-turbo V8, even with efficient tuning, requires fuel to maintain high-speed cruising, especially when tapping into its reserves for effortless passing. Owners who drive predominantly in urban environments will likely see figures closer to the 15 MPG mark, while those with longer commutes or frequent highway trips can expect something closer to the combined rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 BMW M5 Competition at $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year at a blended rate of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price for premium fuel. It’s a considerable sum, and one that potential buyers should factor into the overall cost of ownership. While the initial purchase price is a significant investment, the ongoing expenses, including fuel, insurance, and maintenance, can add up quickly. For those financing the vehicle, this can impact the choice to pay the car off early.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the M5 Competition varies considerably depending on driving style. Someone with a lead foot who exploits the car’s performance potential at every opportunity will likely see significantly lower numbers than the EPA estimates. Conversely, a more disciplined driver who uses a light touch on the throttle and anticipates traffic can potentially achieve slightly better results, especially on the highway. It’s safe to say that no one buys an M5 Competition to hypermile. The joy of this car lies in unleashing its power, and that rarely aligns with maximizing fuel efficiency. To get a sense of how the M5’s powertrain stacks up, take a look at all Bmw fuel economy data.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the M5 Competition’s fuel economy is roughly in line with expectations for this segment. The Mercedes-AMG E63 S, with its similar twin-turbo V8, achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG combined. The Audi RS7, also packing a powerful V8, manages around 18 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera Turbo offers similar power but typically achieves slightly better fuel economy, around 19 MPG combined, thanks to its more advanced engine management systems. These small differences are unlikely to sway a buyer one way or another. The M5 Competition buyer prioritizes the specific blend of performance, luxury, and driver engagement that the BMW offers, acknowledging that fuel efficiency comes second to the driving experience. Those drawn specifically to the M5 alone might also be interested in the M5 MPG across all years to see if later versions provide better fuel consumption.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel efficiency might not be the primary goal of an M5 Competition owner, there are still steps that can be taken to improve gas mileage without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Avoid excessive idling. The M5’s V8 consumes a considerable amount of fuel while idling, so shutting off the engine during extended stops can make a noticeable difference.

Use the car’s driving modes wisely. The “Comfort” setting, while arguably not the most exciting, optimizes the engine and transmission for efficiency. Selecting this mode during mundane commutes can help improve fuel economy without drastically diminishing the driving experience.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels.

Anticipate traffic flow and drive smoothly. Avoid abrupt acceleration and braking, as these actions consume more fuel. By anticipating traffic and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize unnecessary fuel consumption. This tactic works particularly well on long highway trips.