BMW Z4 sDrive35i
19 MPG The 2016 BMW Z4 sDrive35i is EPA-rated at 19 MPG combined (17 city / 23 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 789 gallons, $2526 a year in fuel, or $0.168 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2009–2016 run it averages 19.8 MPG, falling by 1 MPG over 8 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.132 | $1316 | $1974 | $2632 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.158 | $1579 | $2368 | $3158 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.168 | $1684 | $2526 | $3368 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.184 | $1842 | $2763 | $3684 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.211 | $2105 | $3158 | $4211 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.237 | $2368 | $3553 | $4737 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.263 | $2632 | $3947 | $5263 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | 19 MPG | 17 | 23 | $4050 | 454 | 1 |
| 2015 | 19 MPG | 17 | 23 | $4050 | 454 | 1 |
| 2014 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24.5 | $3850 | 435 | 2 |
| 2013 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24.5 | $3850 | 437 | 2 |
| 2012 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24.5 | $3850 | 445 | 2 |
| 2011 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24.5 | $3850 | 445 | 2 |
| 2010 | 20 MPG | 17.5 | 24.5 | $3850 | 444 | 2 |
| 2009 | 20 MPG | 17.5 | 24.5 | $3850 | 444 | 2 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 105 two seaters models tracked here, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i ranks 54 on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Nissan 350z Roadster (19.5), Aston Martin Vantage V8 (20), BMW Z3 Roadster (20), Mercedes-Benz SL550 (20), Nissan 350z (20).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 454 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.8 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the BMW Z4 sDrive35i get?
The 2016 BMW Z4 sDrive35i is rated at 19 MPG combined by the EPA — 17 city and 23 highway. Across all 8 model years in the database it averages 19.8 MPG, ranging from 19 to 21 depending on year and trim.
How much does a BMW Z4 sDrive35i cost in fuel per year?
At 19 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 789 gallons — roughly $2526 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.168 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2016 model is $4050.
Has the BMW Z4 sDrive35i become more efficient over time?
No — it has actually gone backwards, from 20 MPG in 2009 to 19 in 2016. That usually reflects the model growing heavier, more powerful, or moving upmarket rather than the engineering getting worse.
Is the BMW Z4 sDrive35i efficient for its class?
It ranks 54 of 105 in the Two Seaters class on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG. That is 2.4 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.