The 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic Plus Coupe gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. Let’s be frank: no one shelling out well over $150,000 for a hand-built V8, all-wheel-drive land rocket is prioritizing fuel efficiency. This is a statement car, a rolling embodiment of power and luxury. The fuel consumption is simply the price of admission to a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG S63 Coupe will achieve 17 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. While 17 MPG around town might induce range anxiety in some vehicles, the S63 Coupe’s purpose isn’t weaving through traffic efficiently. It’s about effortless acceleration and a commanding presence. On the open road, 27 MPG is a respectable figure, suggesting that even with its prodigious power, the S63 is capable of cruising economically when desired. The key here is “when desired.” The AMG S63’s 4.0L V8 is always on standby, ready to unleash its fury, and that comes at a cost at the pump.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic Plus Coupe to be exactly $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline when the vehicle was originally tested and sold. Keep in mind this is only an estimate; your actual fuel expenses will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of driving you do. Someone who primarily drives short distances in stop-and-go traffic will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who mostly uses the car for long highway trips might see a slightly lower annual cost.

Real-world expectations

Anyone considering an AMG S63 Coupe should be aware that achieving the EPA’s 20 MPG combined rating in real-world driving requires conscious effort. With its ferocious engine and playful character, resisting the temptation to exploit the car’s performance potential is a challenge. Expect to see figures lower than 17 MPG in the city if you have a heavy foot, and the highway number will plummet if you’re consistently driving above the speed limit. Remember, the AMG S63 is designed to deliver exhilarating performance first and foremost; fuel efficiency is a distant consideration.

How it compares

Comparing the AMG S63 Coupe to other high-performance luxury coupes reveals its relative positioning in terms of fuel economy. For example, the BMW M8 Competition Coupe, another V8-powered competitor with all-wheel drive, achieves a similar 17 MPG city / 24 MPG highway. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, known for its exceptional performance, manages a slightly better 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway. Even the less powerful but still potent Audi RS7 achieves only 15 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. These figures highlight that high performance and remarkable fuel efficiency are mutually exclusive. Buyers who prioritize economy should research all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to see if a hybrid or more efficient vehicle better suits their needs. Or, they can check out AMG MPG across all years to identify the trims and model years that get slightly better mileage.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG S63 isn’t designed for ultimate fuel efficiency, there are ways to minimize consumption and get the most out of each gallon of premium fuel. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The S63 Coupe’s twin-turbo V8 responds instantly to throttle inputs, but using that power carefully will significantly improve your MPG.

Take advantage of the car’s drive mode settings. Selecting “Comfort” or “Eco” modes will remap the throttle response and shift patterns, encouraging gentler acceleration and earlier upshifts. These settings are ideal for relaxed cruising and can help conserve fuel without completely sacrificing performance.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain the recommended levels, which are typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s door jamb.

Minimize idling. Leaving the engine running while stationary consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The AMG S63’s engine restarts quickly when you’re ready to go.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel consumption, especially on relatively flat roads. Use cruise control and let the car manage the throttle for you.