17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but it adequately reflects what the 2020 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe is built for. This isn’t a car purchased for its frugality; it’s bought for its ferocious acceleration, tenacious grip, and head-turning style. The fuel bill is simply the price of admission to this exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the M8 Competition Gran Coupe are 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the engine’s output and the car’s weight. The 4.4L twin-turbo V8 produces a prodigious 617 horsepower, demanding significant fuel to deliver that level of performance. Stop-and-go city driving will naturally result in lower efficiency, as the engine works harder to overcome inertia. On the open highway, the M8 Competition Gran Coupe can cruise more efficiently, but the temptation to exploit the readily available power will invariably lead to a decreased MPG figure.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe at $3,400 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, 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. It’s a substantial sum, and prospective owners should factor this into their running costs. Of course, fuel prices fluctuate, and individual driving habits will further influence the actual amount spent on fuel each year.

Real-world expectations

Expect the EPA numbers to be a baseline, not a guarantee. The M8 Competition Gran Coupe encourages enthusiastic driving. The growl of the exhaust and the surge of acceleration are simply too addictive to ignore. Therefore, achieving 15 MPG in the city might be optimistic for some drivers. On longer highway journeys, hitting or even slightly exceeding the 21 MPG estimate is possible, but it requires some restraint that many owners may find challenging. Note that premium fuel is required for optimal performance, further increasing the cost per gallon.

How it compares

Competitors to the M8 Gran Coupe inhabit a similar performance and luxury space. For example, the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, another high-performance four-door, achieves a similar 17 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera Turbo S offers comparable performance and fuel economy, with an EPA rating of around 18 MPG combined. Comparing the all BMW fuel economy data to competitors is essential. Ultimately, buyers in this segment are less concerned with maximizing fuel efficiency and more focused on the driving experience these vehicles offer. Fuel economy plays a part but doesn’t outweigh factors like handling, power, and prestige. You can also compare the M8 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the M8 Competition Gran Coupe isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are still ways to improve fuel economy without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy braking. Smooth, progressive throttle inputs will minimize fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.

Use the car’s driving modes effectively. Selecting the “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” modes will remap the throttle response and shift points for increased efficiency. These modes may not deliver the full M8 experience, but they can make a noticeable difference on longer journeys.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specification, found on the door jamb.

Minimize idling. Allowing the engine to idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, it’s best to switch off the engine, provided it is safe to do so. The M8’s automatic start/stop system can help in this regard, though some enthusiasts prefer to disable it.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in the car increases fuel consumption. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger compartment that are not essential.