The 2020 BMW 840i xDrive Gran Coupe’s 23 MPG combined is not a primary selling point. This car prioritizes high performance, luxurious features, and striking design, so fuel efficiency is less important for its target buyer. This car is for those who prioritize driving pleasure and appearance over saving money on gas, but that doesn’t mean fuel economy isn’t considered; it’s just not the highest priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 840i xDrive Gran Coupe will achieve 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the car’s weight and engine’s need to overcome inertia affect fuel economy. The highway number is better, however. At a steady speed, the smooth and efficient 3.0L inline-six engine can stretch each gallon of fuel further. Remember that the joy of the 840i is its responsiveness. Using the accelerator frequently to tap into its power will reduce that highway MPG figure closer to the city number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW 840i xDrive Gran Coupe at $2,500. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a roughly even split between city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of fuel used. Using premium fuel, as recommended, is important to unlock the full performance of the engine. It might be tempting to use regular fuel to save money, but the potential performance decrease and long-term engine wear are not worth the small savings. You can see all Bmw fuel economy data here.

Real-world expectations

Drivers can expect numbers that change around the EPA estimates, depending on several factors. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extreme weather conditions will reduce fuel economy. In contrast, smooth acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and a well-maintained vehicle will help drivers achieve or exceed the EPA’s estimates. Tire pressure is a key factor that is often overlooked. The car’s computer constantly calculates distance to empty based on driving styles, current consumption figures, past history, and tank capacity, so the driver is always aware of range.

How it compares

The 840i xDrive Gran Coupe competes with similar four-door luxury coupes that have similar performance and fuel economy numbers. The Mercedes-Benz CLS 450 4MATIC, for example, offers a similar driving experience and returns an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. The Audi A7, with its turbocharged V6 engine, also achieves around 24 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera, a benchmark for performance in this segment, typically delivers slightly lower fuel economy, with some variants hovering around 21 MPG combined. Buyers considering the 840I MPG across all years will likely cross-shop these vehicles, balancing performance desires with real-world costs. Someone who chooses this BMW is putting design and sporty handling above small savings; it is not a Prius.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the BMW’s Eco Pro mode, which optimizes engine settings and shift points for fuel efficiency. While it might tame the car’s performance, it can make a noticeable difference on longer trips or during sustained highway driving. Use cruise control on the highway. It helps to maintain a consistent speed, minimize unnecessary acceleration, and conserve fuel. The car is designed to be very efficient with its cruise control.

Make sure the tires are inflated properly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. Regular maintenance is also key. Properly maintaining your 840i xDrive Gran Coupe will help ensure it operates efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can all contribute to improved fuel economy.

Keep idling time to a minimum. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, minimizing any potential wear from frequent restarts. The car has an auto-stop feature that automatically does this when the car anticipates a stop, so make sure the auto-stop feature is enabled for optimal efficiency.

Plan your trips effectively. Combining errands can reduce the number of cold starts, which use more fuel. Consider the route beforehand and choose the best path, avoiding congested areas and unnecessary detours. Avoid using the Sport or Sport+ mode frequently. While these modes enhance the car’s responsiveness and driving enjoyment, they also increase fuel consumption.