The 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA45 4matic gets 23 MPG combined, but that number doesn’t really capture what this high-performance coupe is all about. Let’s be honest, people don’t buy a CLA45 for its gas mileage. They buy it for the quick acceleration, the race-inspired handling, and the attention-grabbing style. Fuel efficiency is a distant consideration, a tradeoff for the thrills this AMG provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the CLA45 gets 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These figures show the car’s two different sides. Stop-and-go city driving, with all the accelerating and braking, puts a strain on the turbocharged 2.0L engine, which results in the lower city MPG. However, out on the open road, the CLA45 becomes more efficient. While 28 MPG is possible if you drive carefully, the temptation to use the engine’s power means you’ll probably see figures closer to the low 20s on real-world highway drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLA45 is $2,500. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is required for the best performance and reliability, so those average prices are for the more expensive fuel. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and gas prices in your area.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Driving hard, frequently using the car’s performance modes, and short trips where the engine doesn’t warm up properly will all hurt fuel consumption. Owners who care more about performance than efficiency will likely see MPG numbers below the EPA estimates. But, those who drive more conservatively and mainly use the car for longer highway trips might get slightly better figures.

How it compares

The AMG CLA45 is unique. Its closest competitors, in terms of performance and price, are other high-performance compacts and sporty sedans. The Audi RS3 sedan, with its distinctive five-cylinder engine, only gets 20 MPG combined. The BMW M240i xDrive coupe, while not as powerful, gets a better 26 MPG combined. Even the less powerful Mercedes-AMG CLA35 4MATIC gets just 25 MPG combined. These comparisons show that the CLA45’s fuel economy is typical of cars that prioritize performance; customers looking at AMG MPG across all years don’t usually focus on fuel savings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the main thing for CLA45 owners, you can still reduce fuel consumption. Avoid accelerating hard and braking suddenly. The turbocharged engine responds quickly, but using the throttle too much wastes fuel.

Carefully choose which driving mode you’re in. “Comfort” mode optimizes for fuel efficiency by reducing throttle response and shifting to higher gears sooner. Save the more aggressive modes for fun driving on suitable roads.

Make sure your tires are inflated properly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Remove extra weight from the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary items adds weight, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Remove anything you don’t need regularly.

Consider using cruise control on long highway journeys. Maintaining a constant speed can improve fuel economy compared to constantly speeding up and slowing down. Be aware of traffic and adjust your speed for safety. For all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, remember the CLA45 is built for performance, not economy.