17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but for the 2022 BMW M8 Competition Convertible, it’s almost beside the point. This isn’t a car purchased by people prioritizing thriftiness. It’s a statement, a rolling expression of performance and open-air extravagance, powered by a thunderous twin-turbo V8. The fuel gauge needle’s rapid descent is simply the price of admission to a realm of exhilarating speed and unabashed luxury.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M8 Competition Convertible at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, made worse by the engine’s eagerness to unleash its considerable power. A light foot is crucial to even approach that 15 MPG number.

On the open road, with the transmission in a higher gear and the engine running easily at cruising speed, the 21 MPG highway rating is more attainable, though still hardly economical. The reality is that most drivers will see mileage somewhere between these two figures, depending on their driving style and route.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 BMW M8 Competition Convertible at $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Naturally, this figure will vary depending on individual driving habits and regional fuel costs.

Someone who primarily drives in stop-and-go traffic, or enjoys frequently exploring the engine’s upper limits, will undoubtedly exceed this estimate. Similarly, those who reside in areas with significantly higher fuel prices will pay more at the pump.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s estimates in real-world driving. The M8 Competition Convertible encourages, even begs for, spirited driving. The intoxicating exhaust note and relentless acceleration are hard to resist, and every burst of speed comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. Drivers who regularly indulge in the car’s performance capabilities will likely see numbers closer to the low teens, if not lower, in mixed driving. Consider the EPA estimates a best-case scenario under ideal conditions.

How it compares

The M8 Competition Convertible sits in a rarified air of ultra-high-performance convertibles where fuel economy isn’t a primary concern. However, understanding how it stacks up against its closest rivals provides context. The Porsche 911 Turbo S Cabriolet, another example of open-top performance, achieves an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined, matching the M8. The Audi R8 Spyder V10 Performance, known for its naturally aspirated V10 engine, lands at 16 MPG combined. Even the Mercedes-AMG SL63, redesigned for 2022, manages only 16 MPG combined. These figures highlight that impressive performance and acceptable fuel economy are often mutually exclusive, especially in this segment. The consumer shopping for this type of vehicle understands this tradeoff. They’re willing to accept the cost for the sheer driving experience — and comparing the M8 MPG across all years won’t change that.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly exploit the engine’s power. The M8 Competition Convertible’s twin-turbo V8 is incredibly responsive, but every hard acceleration run significantly impacts fuel consumption. Practice smooth, progressive acceleration and avoid unnecessary revving to conserve fuel.

Use the car’s driving modes. The M8 offers various settings, including Eco Pro. While it won’t transform the car into a fuel sipper, it can help optimize engine and transmission settings for greater efficiency during relaxed cruising. Remember, however, that even in Eco Pro mode, you’re still commanding 4.4 liters of turbocharged V8.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel economy. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure to minimize this effect. This relatively simple step can yield a noticeable improvement over time.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking. Smooth driving minimizes energy loss and improves fuel efficiency. By anticipating traffic conditions and maintaining a consistent speed, you can reduce the need for abrupt braking and acceleration. Learning to think and drive ahead is something that benefits all drivers, but it’s especially useful here.

Consider the route you take. Choosing routes with fewer stoplights and less traffic congestion can significantly improve fuel economy, especially in city driving. A longer route with consistent speed is often more efficient than a shorter route plagued with stop-and-go traffic. Keep in mind, though, that saving a few MPGs probably isn’t worth sacrificing the joy of taking the long, winding road, and that’s a sentiment most prospective M8 buyers share. You can check all Bmw fuel economy data online to see how other models compare.