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FuelComparison2021 BMW M3
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Does the 2021 BMW M3 get better mileage on the highway or in city driving?

Highway. The 2021 BMW M3 rates 23 MPG on the highway and 16 MPG in the city. Steady speeds and fewer stops mean less fuel use than stop-and-go city traffic. Owners see 22-25 MPG on open roads.

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2021 BMW M3 Gets Better Mileage on Highway

Yes, the 2021 BMW M3 gets better mileage on the highway. EPA rates it at 23 MPG highway and 16 MPG city. You use less fuel on long trips than in town.

The twin-turbo inline-six engine likes steady speeds. On highways, you cruise in high gears with light throttle. This cuts fuel use. City drives bring stops, hard starts, and idle time at lights. All that burns more gas, even at lower speeds. Owners report 22 to 25 MPG at 65 to 75 mph on open roads. In city traffic, numbers drop to 14 to 16 MPG.

The M3's shape fights air drag well at normal highway speeds. Gearing and turbos help efficiency there. In cities, every stop and start wastes energy you can't get back.

Check this comparison with EPA ratings, a 15.6-gallon tank, and $3.50 per gallon gas:

Driving TypeEPA MPGEst. Range (15.6 gal)Cost per Mile
City16250 miles$0.22
Highway23359 miles$0.15

Tips to Boost Your M3's MPG

  • Stick to steady speeds on highways: 65 to 70 mph often beats faster drives.
  • Use cruise control in light traffic and safe spots.
  • Coast to lights in the city. Look ahead to cut hard brakes.
  • Skip long warm-ups. Drive gently from a cold start.
  • Check tire pressure monthly. Aim for 35 psi cold from the door jamb.
  • Ditch roof racks or heavy loads when you can. They add drag and weight.
  • Keep alignment correct. Bad setup hurts MPG and tires.
  • Use recommended oil and change it on time. Fresh oil lowers friction.
  • Pick efficiency drive modes for daily trips. Save Sport for fun.
  • Group errands to cut cold starts.

Factors That Change Your MPG

Traffic and hills drop numbers. Cold weather needs longer warm-ups and thickens fluids. Wider summer tires grip well but hurt MPG. Top-tier premium fuel keeps things clean and steady.

You see top MPG on highways and low numbers in city stops. Sidekick logs your fill-ups, splits city and highway miles, and shows save spots.

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Last updated: February 11, 2026

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