19 MPG combined is the unavoidable truth about the 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe. It’s a figure that would be alarming in a compact sedan, but for this hand-finished, exquisitely detailed, and thunderously powerful four-door coupe, it’s more of a cost of doing business. The B8 Gran Coupe isn’t purchased by those meticulously tracking every mile per gallon. It’s acquired by individuals who demand exclusivity, performance, and a level of craftsmanship rarely seen outside of truly bespoke vehicles.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates break down to 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures accurately reflect the B8’s driving character. In urban environments, the 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, producing a monstrous 612 horsepower, is constantly fighting against the stop-and-go traffic, resulting in predictable fuel consumption. The engine’s immense power is barely tapped, and the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission, though smooth and responsive, can only do so much to mitigate the engine’s thirst in these conditions.

On the open road, however, the Alpina B8 shows its duality. While still capable of breathtaking acceleration, it settles into a comfortable cruise, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently. The long gearing helps reduce RPMs at higher speeds, contributing to the slightly more palatable highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 BMW Alpina B8 Gran Coupe to be $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price. This is a benchmark to keep in mind, but the actual figure will naturally vary depending on individual driving habits and fluctuations in gasoline prices.

Those who frequently exploit the B8’s performance capabilities can expect to surpass this expenditure significantly; those who primarily use it for long highway journeys might see a slightly lower annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and sustained high-speed cruising will undoubtedly reduce the observed MPG. However, with a conscious effort to drive smoothly and use the engine’s torque rather than relying on excessive acceleration, it is possible to achieve figures close to the EPA estimates.

Remember that the B8 encourages a certain type of driving experience, and fuel economy is often a secondary consideration for its owners.

How it compares

The high-performance luxury segment is not known for its frugality. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe, a direct competitor, achieves approximately 16 MPG combined. A Porsche Panamera Turbo S can muster around 18 MPG combined. Even the slightly more restrained Audi RS7 posts similar numbers, around 18 MPG combined. The Alpina B8 Gran Coupe’s fuel consumption is normal in this rarefied space.

Buyers in this segment are typically more concerned with performance and exclusivity than outright fuel efficiency, but acknowledging the trade-off remains critical. For a broader perspective, exploring ALPINA MPG across all years reveals a consistent pattern of prioritizing performance over pure efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Alpina B8 isn’t designed with fuel efficiency as a primary goal, there are still ways to lower its consumption. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration and braking. Consistent speed translates directly to fuel savings, especially on longer trips.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The B8’s immense torque allows for effortless cruising, so there’s rarely a need to aggressively push the accelerator. Smooth, deliberate inputs will not only improve fuel economy but also enhance the overall driving experience.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regular tire pressure checks are a simple yet effective way to improve fuel efficiency and ensure optimal handling.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, reducing fuel efficiency. Keeping the car clear of unnecessary items can make a small but noticeable difference over time.