18 MPG combined is what you get with the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 S 4matic Plus Coupe. This strong performance machine isn’t usually compared against a Prius. It’s about raw power, precise handling, and owning a hand-built AMG engine. Fuel economy is rarely the most important factor for this type of driver.

City and highway performance

Those 18 combined MPG break down to 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, according to EPA estimates. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to accelerate quickly with the GLC63 S’s fast throttle response. The highway number improves, but it’s still not as efficient as a mainstream SUV. This is due to the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 and the permanent all-wheel-drive system. This is a performance machine first. These figures are the cost.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 S 4matic Plus Coupe is $3,200. This assumes 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average price for premium gas. This is an average. Drivers who often use the AMG engine’s full power will spend more on gas. Drivers with shorter commutes or mainly highway driving might see a lower bill. Plan your budget accordingly.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a good starting point, but real-world MPG varies based on driving style, traffic, and terrain. Driving aggressively will reduce fuel economy significantly, while driving gently can get you closer to the EPA highway estimate. Towing, fast acceleration, or idling for a long time will lower MPG. The GLC63 S’s computer shows real-time and average fuel use, which helps monitor driving habits. Getting the EPA combined figure will likely require effort and restraint.

How it compares

The GLC63 S’s fuel economy is similar to its rivals in the performance class. The BMW X3 M Competition, another high-performance compact SUV, gets about 16 MPG city and 19 MPG highway, while the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is rated at 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. The Porsche Macan Turbo, another option, gets 17 city and 22 highway. These vehicles are made for exciting performance, and fuel efficiency is less of a focus. You get fast acceleration and great handling, but you’ll visit gas stations often. For better Mercedes Benz fuel economy you can consider lower AMG trims like the 43 or milder GLC models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the main goal, owners can still improve the GLC63 S’s efficiency. Avoid accelerating and braking hard. The AMG engine responds even with light throttle, so try not to floor it all the time. Smooth driving is important.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are on the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.

Use the available drive modes. The GLC63 S has different drive modes, including a “Comfort” mode that changes engine and transmission settings for better fuel efficiency. It might not be the most fun, but it can help in everyday driving.

Remove extra weight. Take out any extra cargo from the vehicle, as weight increases fuel use. Even a few items can lower MPG.

Think about the route. Choose routes that avoid stop-and-go traffic and congested areas when possible. Highway driving usually gets better fuel economy than city streets. Explore AMG MPG across all years to see how driving habits and routes affect fuel economy.