The 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 4matic Plus Coupe achieves 24 MPG combined, striking a balance. It prioritizes AMG performance in a stylish coupe while remaining reasonably responsible, by enthusiast standards. Buyers of this car understand that exclusivity, strong power, and a luxurious experience result in fuel consumption exceeding that of an economy sedan.

City and highway performance

The official EPA ratings show a difference between city and highway driving. The 21 MPG city rating reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the E53’s 3.0L inline-six and mild-hybrid system work harder. Expect fuel consumption to climb when using the engine’s responsiveness from every stoplight. However, the 28 MPG highway figure demonstrates the E53 can cruise efficiently. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal range, while aerodynamic refinements reduce drag at higher speeds. If you drive mostly on open roads, you’ll likely see fuel economy closer to the highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 4matic Plus Coupe at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Actual fuel costs depend heavily on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the ratio of city to highway miles driven. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and sustained high-speed driving will increase your annual fuel expenditures.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy depends on driving style and conditions. An owner who frequently drives the AMG hard will likely observe lower fuel consumption than the EPA numbers suggest, but a driver who accelerates smoothly and maintains consistent speeds may achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA ratings, especially on long highway journeys. The all-wheel-drive system adds weight and complexity, increasing consumption, especially compared to rear-wheel-drive alternatives.

How it compares

The AMG E53 Coupe balances performance and acceptable efficiency. The BMW M440i xDrive Coupe, rated at 25 MPG combined, is marginally more efficient, but doesn’t offer the same power or luxury. The Audi S5 Coupe offers comparable performance but delivers slightly lower fuel economy, around 23 MPG combined. For E53 buyers, the choice often comes down to styling preference, brand loyalty, and the specific character and features they seek. The marginal MPG differences are less important than the overall experience. For comparisons with other Mercedes-Benz models, explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data. You can also research AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the selectable drive modes, “Comfort” or “Eco” will remap the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. Avoid using “Sport” or “Sport+” modes in everyday driving, as these modes encourage aggressive acceleration and keep the engine at higher RPMs, significantly increasing fuel consumption.

Accelerate and brake smoothly. Abrupt acceleration wastes fuel, and hard braking converts kinetic energy into heat, so anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The E53 has a mild-hybrid system; maximizing its regenerative braking can provide fuel savings.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, found on the door jamb sticker or in the owner’s manual. Even a few PSI of difference can affect fuel economy.

Minimize aerodynamic drag by removing any unnecessary cargo from the roof or trunk, as added weight increases drag and reduces fuel efficiency, particularly at highway speeds. Subtle changes, like adding a roof rack, can impact your MPG.