19 MPG combined for the 2020 BMW M2 Competition isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but fuel efficiency is beside the point. This isn’t a car bought by someone prioritizing less gas. It’s a machine purchased for its razor-sharp handling, its explosive power delivery, and the joy of driving a compact coupe with a serious performance pedigree. The M2 Competition buyer understands there’s a price to be paid at the pump, and they’re willing to pay it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway reflect the M2 Competition’s dual nature. In urban environments, the stop-and-go traffic, combined with the temptation to use the engine’s responsiveness at every green light, takes a toll. The engine’s eagerness to rev and the short gearing mean you’re never far from boost, and that boost requires fuel.

On the open road, however, the M2 Competition can stretch its legs, delivering acceptable, if not exceptional, highway fuel economy. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (AM-S7) helps, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for cruising while offering lightning-fast downshifts when needed. Driving style plays a significant role, with aggressive acceleration and high speeds dramatically impacting fuel consumption regardless of the environment.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the average annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW M2 Competition Coupe is $3,050. 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 national average fuel prices. Your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended for optimal performance), and local fuel prices. $3,050 provides a reasonable benchmark for prospective M2 Competition owners to consider.

Those contemplating purchasing should also remember that unexpected track days and spirited weekend road trips could easily push that annual fuel bill even higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. It’s more accurate to frame expectations based on how the vehicle will be primarily used. An M2 Competition primarily used for short commutes with heavy traffic will almost certainly see fuel economy dip below the EPA estimates. Conversely, someone who lives in a more rural area with less traffic and who spends a considerable amount of time on the highway might see numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the 23 MPG highway rating.

Expecting significantly better fuel economy than the EPA combined figure is unrealistic. The M2 Competition rewards spirited driving, and such driving reduces fuel economy. It’s safe to anticipate a range of 16-22 MPG, dependent on driving behavior.

How it compares

Compared to rivals, the 2020 M2 Competition’s fuel economy is about what you would expect for a car with this level of performance. The Porsche 718 Cayman S, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, offers a slightly better EPA combined rating of 22 MPG, but some would argue that it doesn’t quite deliver the same level of raw excitement and visceral experience as the M2 Competition. The Audi RS3, another direct competitor, achieves 22 MPG combined. For those cross-shopping, exploring all Bmw fuel economy data will give a broader picture of the brand’s efficiency across its model range. Most buyers accept the trade-offs made for the exhilarating driving experience the M2 Competition delivers.

If fuel economy is a high priority, you can explore M2 MPG across all years to understand the fuel efficiency across other model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the M2 Competition isn’t designed for sipping fuel, there are several techniques which can help marginally improve gas mileage. Be mindful of the accelerator pedal and avoid excessive, hard acceleration. The twin-turbocharged engine delivers plenty of torque at low RPMs, so there’s rarely a genuine need to bury the throttle unless you’re on a track or passing. Consistent, moderate acceleration will make a noticeable difference, especially in city driving.

Ensure tires are properly inflated as this is critical for optimal fuel economy. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s side doorjamb) regularly and adjust accordingly. This simple step can improve both fuel economy and tire life.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel. This is especially beneficial in stop-and-go traffic.

Use the driving mode selector intelligently. The M2 Competition offers different driving modes (e.g., Comfort, Sport, Sport+), each with varying throttle response and shift points. When fuel economy is a concern, selecting the Comfort mode will optimize the engine’s settings for efficiency, and it can noticeably improve MPG during daily commutes.