17 MPG combined. It’s a number that might cause Prius drivers to shudder, but for the few who park a 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Coupe in their garage, it’s simply the cost of admission to an exclusive club of high-performance grand tourers. This isn’t a car engineered for frugal commuting; it’s a hand-built masterpiece designed to deliver breathtaking acceleration and a visceral driving experience.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG GT C Coupe achieves 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Consider these figures as guidelines, not gospel. The city number will likely be even lower if you frequently indulge in the car’s power at stoplights. The highway figure represents consistent cruising, pushing the car hard on winding roads will quickly negate any hope of achieving that 21 MPG. The 4.0L V8, with its two turbos nestled within the “hot V,” demands fuel, and it makes no apologies. While this car might occasionally find itself merging onto a highway, its true habitat is the open road, devoured in glorious bursts of speed.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Coupe is $3,400. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required, which typically adds another layer of cost compared to the average fuel price used by the EPA. With current fluctuations in gas prices, that annual figure can swing wildly. For those drawn to the allure of the AMG GT C, however, this is often seen as an acceptable price to pay; it is simply the cost to possess a vehicle with this level of style, exclusivity, and performance.

Real-world expectations

Forget aiming for EPA numbers; if you’re buying an AMG GT C, you’re buying an experience. The reality is that most owners will likely see an average closer to the low end of the EPA range, especially with enthusiastic driving. The car encourages it. It’s a visceral machine that rewards aggressive inputs with immediate response. Expect frequent trips to the gas station, and view them not as a chore, but as a necessary ritual to keep your high-performance beast fed. Consult all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data for more fuel efficient models from this manufacturer.

How it compares

Competitors like the Porsche 911 Carrera S can achieve notably better fuel economy, with EPA estimates hovering around 21 MPG combined in certain configurations. The Jaguar F-Type R, with its supercharged V8, lands in similar territory to the AMG GT C, typically estimated around 18 MPG combined. Even BMW’s M8 Competition Coupe, a larger and heavier car, can sometimes match the AMG’s fuel economy numbers. However, the AMG GT C offers raw power, striking design, and luxurious appointments that differentiates it from its rivals. For those prioritizing less gas, the Porsche presents a more sensible option. If the throaty rumble of a hand-built AMG engine is what you want, the others won’t do. Those who prioritize AMG MPG across all years are willing to accept compromises in efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing every last drop of fuel might not be the primary concern of an AMG GT C owner, there are still steps to improve your MPG.

Avoid short trips. Allowing the engine to fully warm up to its optimal operating temperature will improve efficiency. Cold starts are particularly detrimental to fuel economy, as the engine management system richens the fuel mixture to ensure proper combustion.

Pay attention to tire pressures. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which can positively affect fuel consumption. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels listed on the doorjamb sticker.

Be mindful of driving style. While the temptation to unleash the full fury of the V8 is always present, adopting a smoother, more deliberate driving style will reduce fuel consumption. Avoid hard acceleration and braking whenever possible.

Use the car’s driving modes. If a long highway cruise is unavoidable, selecting a less aggressive driving mode can help optimize fuel efficiency. While you might sacrifice some of the car’s responsiveness, it can lead to a noticeable improvement on the highway.