16 MPG combined is the price of admission to the exclusive club of high-performance luxury coupes, especially one wearing the “M” badge. The 2019 BMW M6 Gran Coupe doesn’t pretend to be frugal, nor does its buyer care. This is a machine for those who prioritize fast acceleration and a great engine sound, wrapped in a sleek four-door coupe body. Fuel efficiency is a distant afterthought for the enthusiast drawn to its exciting blend of power and prestige.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 M6 Gran Coupe place it at 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. While these numbers might seem underwhelming, they show the M6’s performance focus. The city MPG reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic on a high-output engine, while the highway figure improves when the powertrain settles into a more efficient cruising speed. However, aggressive driving, which is almost unavoidable in a car like this, will quickly reduce those modest gains.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 BMW M6 Gran Coupe at $3,600. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. This is a significant annual expense, one that the M6 Gran Coupe buyer factors into the overall cost of ownership. However, it’s a cost that’s readily justifiable for the unique driving experience this car delivers.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG for the M6 Gran Coupe can vary based on driving style and conditions. Those with a heavier foot will likely see numbers lower than the official estimates, especially in city driving. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds on the highway might achieve slightly better figures. However, anyone buying this car with the intention of hypermiling is missing the point. The M6 Gran Coupe is meant to be driven, and its fuel consumption will reflect that.

How it compares

The M6 Gran Coupe exists in a segment where performance is most important, but it’s still worth considering its competition. The Mercedes-AMG CLS 63 S, from the same era, delivers similar performance and a nearly identical fuel economy in real-world driving. The Audi RS 7 offers comparable power, but boasts a slightly better 18 MPG combined. For buyers scrutinizing fuel costs, that small difference might matter. However, someone seeking a more economical luxury performance choice might consider the BMW M550i xDrive. Although it is positioned a rung below the M6, the M550i offers impressive performance with a more palatable 20 MPG combined. Comparing M6 MPG across all years can give you a better sense of how this car has evolved.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the M6 Gran Coupe’s performance, getting every last mile per gallon might seem odd, but there are a few things owners can do to improve efficiency without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment.

First, be mindful of throttle inputs. The M6’s twin-turbo V8 is responsive, but excessive acceleration will quickly drain the fuel tank. Smooth inputs will help maintain a fuel burn.

Second, use the car’s driving modes. The “Comfort” mode, while less engaging than “Sport” or “Sport+”, will soften the throttle response and optimize the transmission for efficiency. This can be useful during highway cruising.

Third, ensure that the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can negatively impact fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels.

Finally, avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s best to turn off the engine.

The 2019 BMW M6 Gran Coupe provides a driving experience that emphasizes raw power and styling. All all Bmw fuel economy data will show that efficiency is a secondary concern, but that’s part of its charm. The $3,600 annual fuel cost is simply the price to be paid for this level of performance and luxury.