20 MPG combined isn’t going to impress anyone, but for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560 4matic Coupe, it’s not the main point. This vehicle isn’t about being economical; it’s a statement, a rolling sculpture of leather, wood, and technology designed to pamper its occupants. Owners of this car value power and comfort most, considering the fuel bill a consequence of their lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S560 Coupe gets 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic. The engine’s 4.0-liter V8, even with its cylinder deactivation system, uses a lot of fuel there. The highway number is better. At a steady speed, the nine-speed automatic transmission keeps the engine at low RPM, which helps with fuel efficiency. But frequent bursts of acceleration, a temptation with 463 horsepower, will quickly lower fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560 4matic Coupe is $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles a year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price, which changes. While the specific number will depend on driving habits and local fuel costs, $2,900 is a good estimate of the cost of fueling this luxury coupe.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies. Driving aggressively, especially accelerating hard, will reduce MPG significantly. However, careful drivers who accelerate smoothly and maintain a steady highway speed might see better results than the EPA estimates. The S560’s weight and powerful engine make it sensitive to driving style, so mindful habits can help you get the best fuel economy.

How it compares

The S560’s fuel economy is typical for luxury coupes. The BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, with its 4.4L V8, gets about the same, at 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Lexus LC 500, with its naturally aspirated 5.0L V8, does a little better, around 19 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. But the LC 500 is about smooth power delivery more than immediate acceleration. Buyers considering S560 MPG across all years should also be aware of all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data. The Audi RS 5 Coupe, with its turbocharged V6, is more fuel-efficient at 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, but its brand isn’t as prestigious and its driving experience isn’t as luxurious, which matters to S-Class buyers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the S560’s “Comfort” driving mode, which adjusts the throttle and transmission for smoothness and efficiency. It encourages gentle acceleration and earlier upshifts, saving fuel without reducing performance too much.

Make sure your tires are inflated properly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance so the engine works harder and uses more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended levels.

Remove extra weight. Extra cargo in the trunk adds weight, hurting fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need to lighten the load and improve efficiency.

Avoid idling too much. Letting the engine idle uses fuel without moving. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to save fuel.

Plan your trips well. Combine errands into one trip to reduce cold starts, which use more fuel. Try to avoid rush hour to reduce stop-and-go driving, which hurts fuel economy.