Anyone considering the 2023 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Convertible probably won’t be too concerned about its 18 MPG combined fuel economy. This isn’t a hybrid or an economy car; it’s a high-performance convertible engineered for exhilarating driving experiences, reflecting that trade-off. The M4 Competition Convertible appeals to those who prioritize open-air thrills and blistering acceleration over minimizing trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the M4 Competition M xDrive Convertible achieves 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which strains fuel efficiency even with advanced engine management systems. The highway figure, while better, still underscores the fact that this car’s aerodynamic profile and powerful engine prioritize performance over achieving maximum mileage. Drivers who spend most of their time in stop-and-go traffic will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, while a driver who frequently enjoys long highway cruises might approach, but is unlikely to achieve, the EPA highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,200 for the 2023 BMW M4 Competition M xDrive Convertible. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate, actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. The M4’s high-performance engine requires premium fuel, its higher cost further contributes to the hefty annual fuel expense.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the M4 Competition Convertible typically falls in line with the EPA’s estimates, but aggressive driving can quickly push those numbers down. The temptation to exploit the car’s prodigious power from its turbocharged inline-six engine is ever-present, and frequent bursts of acceleration will impact fuel consumption. Drivers who regularly engage launch control or spend time at the track can expect significantly lower MPG figures. Drivers who adopt a more relaxed driving style and prioritize smooth acceleration may see slightly better fuel economy, but few buy this car for its relaxed driving behavior.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the M4 Competition M xDrive Convertible’s fuel economy is within the expected range for a performance-oriented convertible. The Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, another benchmark in this segment, achieves an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Cabriolet, with its powerful V8 engine, lands close to the M4’s numbers. The Audi RS5 Cabriolet, manages similarly rated fuel economy. For those truly prioritizing efficiency within the luxury convertible segment, the BMW Z4 M40i offers a slightly better 25 MPG combined, trading some performance for improved fuel consumption. These comparisons highlight that while the M4 isn’t the most fuel-efficient option, it delivers performance on par with its direct competitors. For more information, check M4 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for M4 Competition Convertible owners, there are still ways to optimize its fuel usage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, deliberate inputs will not only improve fuel efficiency but also contribute to a more refined driving experience. The M4’s adaptive suspension and drive modes can be adjusted to prioritize efficiency, although this comes at the expense of the car’s dynamic performance.

Maintain proper tire inflation as specified by BMW. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, decreasing fuel economy and negatively affecting handling. Regular tire pressure checks are a simple way to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and extend tire life. For information on other models, see all Bmw fuel economy data.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run unnecessarily wastes fuel, especially during warm-up. Modern engines don’t require extended idling to reach operating temperature, so it’s best to simply start the engine and drive off gently. The start/stop system can help mitigate this by automatically shutting off the engine at traffic lights, but some drivers disable this feature due to personal preference.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo adds load to the vehicle, increasing fuel consumption. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger area that are not essential. This is a simple way to improve fuel economy, but the impact may be marginal given the M4’s weight.