17 MPG combined defines the 2021 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe’s relationship with the gas pump a figure that’s almost beside the point for the buyer of this high-performance machine. Nobody acquiring a nearly $150,000 four-door coupe with a twin-turbocharged V8 expects Prius-like efficiency. They want fast acceleration, stunning design, and exclusivity, and accept the fuel bills as part of that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M8 Competition Gran Coupe achieves 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the compromises in extracting 617 horsepower from a 4.4-liter engine. Stop-and-go driving punishes fuel consumption in a vehicle of this size and power. Freeway cruising, while better, is still affected by the engine’s potential, the all-wheel-drive system, and the car’s aerodynamic profile that, while sleek, isn’t optimized for maximum fuel savings. The eight-speed automatic transmission (S8), while responsive and quick-shifting, is geared for performance rather than outright efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,400 for the 2021 BMW M8 Competition Gran Coupe. This figure is 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. Given the M8’s need for premium gasoline, this yearly expenditure is a significant factor, even for high-net-worth individuals. It’s a reminder of the high cost of entry and ownership in the realm of extreme performance.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the M8 Competition Gran Coupe can vary based on driving style, traffic conditions, and even the specific driving mode selected. Aggressive acceleration, frequent use of the sport driving modes, and extended periods of idling will contribute to lower MPG. Conversely, a conscious effort to drive more conservatively, anticipate traffic flow, and use the car’s adaptive cruise control on the highway may yield slightly better numbers. Drivers seeking maximum performance will likely see figures below the EPA estimates, while those prioritizing efficiency can match the 21 MPG highway rating under ideal conditions.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the M8 Competition Gran Coupe’s fuel economy is in line with other high-performance luxury four-door coupes. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, another rival, delivers similar fuel economy numbers, often around 15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway. The Porsche Panamera Turbo S offers figures in the same ballpark, although the hybrid variants can achieve considerably better MPG, albeit with a higher initial price. Even all Bmw fuel economy data shows similarly powered models struggle to break the 20 MPG barrier in real-world conditions. All options show relatively similar economy figures, confirming that fuel efficiency is not the priority for consumers in this vehicle class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Understand the drive modes. The M8 Competition offers various driving modes, including an “Efficiency” or “Comfort” setting. Selecting these modes will alter the engine mapping, transmission shift points, and throttle response to prioritize fuel conservation over performance. Using these modes during daily commutes or long highway stretches can improve MPG.

Master smooth acceleration and braking. The M8’s explosive power can be addictive, but heavy-footed acceleration and abrupt braking drain fuel quickly. By practicing smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions to minimize hard braking, you can improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment.

Maintain optimal tire pressure. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure specified on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Regular tire pressure checks are essential for both safety and efficiency. If you are looking at other years, or trim levels, check the M8 MPG across all years.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel. If you anticipate waiting for more than a minute, turning off the engine is generally more efficient than letting it idle. This is relevant in urban environments with frequent stoplights and traffic congestion.

Plan your trips. Combining errands into a single trip minimizes cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient than driving a warm engine. Planning your route to avoid heavy traffic areas can also reduce stop-and-go driving and improve overall fuel economy.