19 MPG combined is not a typo. It’s the official EPA rating for the 2020 BMW M2 CS Coupe, a car utterly unconcerned with sipping fuel. This isn’t a grocery-getter or a commuter appliance; it’s a focused, track-ready weapon dressed in street clothes. Buyers of this car understand exactly what they’re getting into, and fuel economy is rarely near the top of their priority list.

City and highway performance

The M2 CS doesn’t pretend to be efficient, and its individual ratings reflect that reality. The city MPG comes in at 16, a figure that illustrates its thirst for premium fuel when navigating stop-and-go traffic. The reason? A potent 3.0L inline-six cylinder engine, tuned to deliver immediate and thrilling power.

On the open highway, things improve marginally, climbing to 23 MPG. Even this number isn’t exactly stellar. However, consider the temptation to exploit the engine’s capabilities: constant bursts of acceleration and high-speed cruising will take their toll.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW M2 CS Coupe is $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a certain percentage weighted towards city driving versus highway driving, and using the EPA’s assumed national average fuel price for premium gasoline. This $3,050 cost represents a significant expense compared to more fuel-conscious vehicles, and it’s a clear indication that enjoying the M2 CS’s performance comes at a price.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized yardstick, but real-world MPG can vary significantly based on driving style and conditions. Owners who frequently visit the track or engage in spirited driving on twisty roads will likely see fuel economy dip below the official ratings. On the other hand, those who primarily use the car for longer highway journeys, while maintaining moderate speeds, might approach or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway figure. Achieving significantly better fuel economy than advertised would require a level of restraint that few M2 CS owners possess, or desire.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the M2 CS’s fuel economy lands exactly where you might expect. The Porsche 718 Cayman GT4, another track-focused coupe, achieves roughly similar figures, with an EPA-estimated 18 MPG combined. The Audi RS3, a high-performance sedan offering similar levels of engagement, manages a slightly better 22 MPG combined.

Even within the broader BMW lineup, you can see a clear contrast. The M240i Coupe, while still performance-oriented, focuses more on efficiency and achieves 26 MPG combined. The M2 CS buyer knows that the extra performance comes at the cost of more frequent fill-ups. They find this trade-off acceptable.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its performance-oriented nature, there are still ways to get slightly better fuel economy from the M2 CS. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, consistent throttle inputs will minimize fuel consumption, especially in city driving where the engine is constantly changing speed.

Use the car’s driving modes effectively. The “Efficient” mode, while not exactly inspiring, will adjust the engine mapping and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel conservation over outright performance. This is best used during highway cruising or when navigating congested areas.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and ensure they are set to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk will increase fuel consumption. Remove any items that aren’t essential, especially heavy objects, to lighten the load and improve efficiency: both at the pump and on the track.

Consider modifications carefully. Aftermarket upgrades can enhance performance, but some can negatively impact fuel economy. Large wheels, aggressive tires, and certain engine modifications can all contribute to increased fuel consumption. The M2 CS is already a highly capable machine, so carefully weigh the benefits of any modifications against their potential impact on efficiency. Search all Bmw fuel economy data and M2 MPG across all years for a fuller picture.