17 MPG combined. Let’s be honest: No one buys a 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupe expecting Prius-like fuel economy. This is a two-door grand tourer packing a twin-turbocharged V8 producing 617 horsepower. Fuel efficiency is an afterthought, a casualty of pursuing breathtaking performance and a soundtrack that would make Wagner proud. The M8 Competition Coupe is for drivers prioritizing exhilaration over economy and those fortunate enough to absorb the cost of frequent fill-ups.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 M8 Competition coupe at 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst during stop-and-go driving, where the large displacement and turbochargers work harder to overcome inertia. The highway number, while better, isn’t exactly stellar. Even with the eight-speed automatic’s ability to select higher gears, the M8’s sheer power and weight demand a steady stream of premium fuel, especially at higher speeds where aerodynamic drag becomes a significant factor. Accept these numbers as a simple reality of owning a high-performance machine; they’re a tradeoff for the intense driving experience this car delivers.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2024 BMW M8 Competition Coupe is estimated at $3,400. 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. Obviously, your actual fuel cost could vary considerably depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. If you frequently engage launch control or spend most of your time in dense urban traffic, expect to significantly exceed that $3,400 figure. Conversely, those who primarily use the M8 for relaxed highway cruising might get away with spending a bit less, but budget accordingly. The M8 demands premium fuel, so factor that into your calculations.

Real-world expectations

Remember, EPA estimates are just estimates. Real-world MPG for the M8 Competition Coupe will depend heavily on your driving style. Drive it like you stole it, frequent hard acceleration, full-throttle blasts, and liberal use of the paddle shifters and you’ll likely see numbers well below the EPA estimates. Drive it with restraint, focusing on smooth acceleration and maintaining a steady speed on the highway, and you might approach the 22 MPG highway figure. Resisting the urge to unleash the M8’s full potential is a challenge. This car begs to be driven aggressively, and that comes at a price.

How it compares

The M8 Competition Coupe resides in a segment occupied by other high-performance coupes and grand tourers, all of which make sacrifices when it comes to fuel economy. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, with its 640 horsepower, manages a slightly better 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S Coupe, another formidable competitor, achieves an EPA-estimated 15 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. These small differences are unlikely to sway a buyer already committed to the M8, but understanding the comparative landscape provides context. Choosing a more fuel-efficient performance car like the Audi RS7 (15 city/22 highway) can save money, but it lacks the M8’s exclusive positioning and raw performance edge. Anyone interested in saving fuel significantly should consult all Bmw fuel economy data before they choose their next car. Reviewing M8 MPG across all years is another useful point of comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the M8 Competition Coupe isn’t designed for hypermiling, there are steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, deliberate inputs are more efficient and contribute to a more refined driving experience.

Use the M8’s configurable driving modes. Selecting “Comfort” or “Eco Pro” will soften the throttle response, optimize the transmission shift points, and reduce the engine’s power output, all of which can contribute to improved fuel economy. Be aware that these modes significantly tame the car’s character.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the door jamb.

When possible, anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed. Frequent changes in speed require more energy to accelerate and decelerate, leading to increased fuel consumption. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive cargo in the trunk or back seat adds weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items to lighten the load and improve fuel economy.