The 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS53 4matic Plus achieves 23 MPG combined, but frankly, that’s not why people buy this car. This stylish, high-performance “four-door coupe” emphasizes sleek design, powerful acceleration, and advanced technology over fuel efficiency. The CLS53 buyer seeks a statement piece that blends luxury and sporting ability, accepting moderate running costs as a result.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the CLS53 gets 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving where the car’s weight and engine power lead to higher fuel use. The 27 MPG highway number is more respectable, suggesting the efficiency of the 3.0L inline-six engine with its mild-hybrid assist at cruising speeds. Reaching that highway number means resisting the urge to use the engine’s power for frequent passing. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel economy when driven conservatively, but its main purpose is to provide fast and smooth shifts when the driver wants performance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLS53 4matic Plus at $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and the EPA’s 23 MPG combined fuel economy estimate. The cost uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing, which varies. While $2,500 isn’t cheap, buyers should consider it alongside other running costs for a performance luxury vehicle. Insurance, maintenance, and repairs will likely cost more than the annual fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard, real-world fuel economy for the CLS53 will vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Drivers who accelerate quickly can expect lower MPG, especially in the city or on twisty roads. Instead, drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive calmly on the highway may see numbers near or above the EPA estimates. The CLS53’s performance, its quick acceleration and all-wheel-drive system, encourages more aggressive driving, which will impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The CLS53’s fuel economy is competitive in the performance luxury coupe category. The BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, with its V8 engine, gets an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Audi S7, another four-door coupe, achieves around 22 MPG combined. These show that efficiency is often less important than performance in this class. The CLS53 buyer isn’t likely considering a Toyota Prius, accepting fuel consumption for the car’s performance. For a broader perspective, considering all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data with the AMG CLS53 provides a better picture of the brand’s efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the CLS53’s ECO driving mode. This mode optimizes the powertrain for fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response, transmission shift points, and the climate control system. Using it is a simple way to save fuel during commutes or highway drives.

Drive with smooth acceleration and braking. The CLS53’s engine can quickly use fuel if driven aggressively. Gentle acceleration and anticipating stops can improve fuel economy by reducing fuel use. This car is about controlled power.

Keep tires properly inflated. Correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, saving fuel. Check tire pressure regularly and maintain the levels in the owner’s manual or on the door jamb sticker. Low tire pressure hurts fuel economy and affects handling and tire wear.

Minimize idling. Idling wastes fuel. If you expect to wait longer than a minute, turn off the engine to save fuel. Modern vehicles restart quickly, so there’s no penalty for shutting down the engine during brief stops, especially in the city.

Regular maintenance is important for excellent fuel economy. Keeping the engine tuned, changing the air filter, and using the recommended motor oil help the engine run efficiently. Schedule regular servicing to ensure your CLS53 runs well and delivers the best fuel economy. If you’re interested in seeing AMG MPG across all years, this can offer insight into the brand’s fuel efficiency.