18 MPG combined. Frankly, if you’re considering a 2022 Mercedes-Benz S580 4matic Maybach, fuel economy is probably less important than the hand-stitched leather or the latest technology. This isn’t a car purchased for saving money; it’s a statement, a mobile escape, and an example of technology, all combined into one very luxurious package. It uses, rather than consumes, premium fuel, and owners likely care more about quiet power and easy cruising than miles per gallon.

City and highway performance

The S580 Maybach isn’t ideal for stop-and-go traffic, and the EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city. This reflects the size and weight of the vehicle, even with the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8’s cylinder deactivation. On the open road, things improve. The 24 MPG highway rating shows the benefits of the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise easily at lower RPMs. These numbers are reasonable for a car that provides comfortable rides and easy acceleration, but pushing the “hot V’s” turbos will lower the figures significantly.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,200 for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S580 4matic Maybach. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average premium gas price. This is a big expense, but a small one relative to the cost of the S580 Maybach and its typical buyers. The S580 MPG across all years has stayed the same, making the annual fuel cost a good benchmark for budgeting.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures are a standard, but real-world fuel economy depends on driving style, traffic, and weather. The S580 Maybach encourages a quiet ride, but the reliable engine makes fast acceleration tempting. Using the car’s power often will lower the average MPG. Long highway trips at steady speeds will improve fuel economy, while city traffic will decrease it. How you drive is very important.

How it compares

The S580 Maybach’s fuel economy is normal for ultra-luxury sedans. The Bentley Flying Spur, with its W12 engine, gets about 15 MPG combined. The Rolls-Royce Ghost also gets low- to mid-teens in real-world driving. The BMW M760i xDrive, with a V12, gets similar fuel economy to the Maybach. Maybach buyers want a balance of acceptable efficiency without losing performance or luxury. They expect to pay extra for everything, including fuel. Find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the car’s drive modes. “Comfort” or “Eco” will reduce throttle response and make the transmission upshift sooner. These settings can improve fuel economy, especially in the city, without making the car feel slow.

Keep your tires inflated. Low tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more gas. Check your tire pressures often and inflate them to the recommended levels on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel. This is important in cities with frequent stops.

Plan trips well. Combining errands minimizes cold starts, which use the most fuel. Avoiding rush hour will also reduce driving distances and times which helps save fuel.