20 MPG combined. That’s the EPA-estimated figure for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe with its hand-built 4.0L V8. For many, this would be a dealbreaker. But for the select few who purchase this aggressive German coupe, it’s simply the price to join an exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the C63 Coupe will achieve 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This difference highlights this car’s intended use. The city figure reflects urban driving conditions, where the engine spends a lot of time idling or accelerating, circumstances where the AMG’s technology can’t fully compensate for its displacement and power. The highway figure, however, showcases the engine’s relative efficiency when cruising at a constant speed. The nine-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to lope along at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel economy on long trips, assuming you can resist the urge to speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for driving a 2019 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe is roughly $2,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is merely an estimate. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving will significantly increase your fuel bill, and the temptation to do just that is always present with this car.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers. Seriously. If you’re considering a C63 Coupe and actively worrying about fuel economy, you’re missing the point. Real-world MPG will likely be lower than the official figures, especially if you frequently use the engine’s power. Expect combined mileage in the mid-teens if you enjoy spirited driving. Highway figures might approach the EPA’s 26 MPG, but only if you strongly restrain yourself. The reality is that the C63 Coupe is not about saving fuel; it’s about delivering an exhilarating driving experience, and that comes at a price, both financially and environmentally.

How it compares

Competitors like the BMW M4, with its inline-six engine, achieve a slightly better 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. Audi’s RS5 Coupe, packing a twin-turbo V6, nets 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The Cadillac ATS-V, with its own twin-turbo V6, manages 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. While these rivals may offer marginally better fuel economy, the AMG C63 Coupe has its own distinct character and unmistakable soundtrack. The choice comes down to priorities: maximizing fuel efficiency or embracing the raw experience that the C63 delivers. For those looking for more efficient options, explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data and AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly use full throttle. The AMG C63’s strong power output is intoxicating, but every full-throttle launch uses a lot of fuel. Smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will provide improvements in fuel consumption.

Engage the “Comfort” driving mode when possible. While it might seem wrong to tame the beast, the Comfort mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for efficiency, softening throttle response and encouraging earlier upshifts. It’s ideal for highway cruising and low-speed city driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly using a reliable gauge and inflate them to the recommended levels (found on the driver’s side door jamb). Optimizing tire pressure is a simple way to improve efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be shut off when stationary for extended periods. Idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.