16 MPG combined is what you’ll get with a new Mercedes-Benz GLS600 Maybach. Buyers of this lavish car won’t compare it to a Prius, and they likely won’t worry about gas prices either. They’re buying a quiet space on wheels, a status symbol, and strong performance. The fuel economy is just one item in a large budget. This is a car for those who value exclusivity, opulence, and effortless power, and the GLS600 Maybach delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLS600 Maybach gets 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the demands of moving a vehicle of this size and weight, especially one powered by a reliable 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 550 horsepower. The city MPG shows the impact of stop-and-go traffic on gas usage, where the engine often idles or runs inefficiently. On the other hand, the highway MPG benefits from consistent speeds and better engine load, though wind resistance still matters.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS600 Maybach is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using premium fuel, which is recommended. The calculation uses the national average fuel price when the EPA tested the car. However, individual fuel costs can change based on driving habits, location, and fuel prices. For owners who mainly drive their GLS600 Maybach on short trips or in busy cities, the actual annual fuel cost could be higher.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard measure of fuel economy, but real-world MPG can vary based on driving conditions and habits. Fast acceleration, hard braking, and long idling will lower fuel efficiency. The GLS600 Maybach’s all-wheel-drive system improves traction and stability, but it also increases gas usage. Owners who accelerate smoothly and keep consistent speeds are more likely to get close to the EPA estimates. Given the thirst of a high-performance V8 engine in a heavy luxury SUV, consistent fuel-sipping is unlikely.

How it compares

The GLS600 Maybach’s fuel economy is similar to other ultra-luxury SUVs. The Bentley Bentayga, with its W12 engine, gets around 14 MPG combined. A similarly equipped Range Rover reports around 18 MPG combined. The Rolls-Royce Cullinan also sits around 14 MPG combined. Choosing immense power and opulent luxury in a large SUV means compromises in fuel efficiency, but buyers are more focused on other features and performance, so this is a small worry. You can research all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site to see how Mercedes’ complete lineup shakes out.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Even though lower fuel costs might not be a main concern for GLS600 Maybach owners, some things can help use less gas. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, since these use the engine a lot and lower efficiency. Instead, accelerate smoothly and watch traffic to reduce sudden stops.

Make sure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which leads to higher gas usage. Check tire pressure often and adjust it to keep good efficiency. Also, use the recommended fuel grade to keep the engine running well.

Keep idling time short. Letting the engine idle for a long time uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, which makes this an easy way to save fuel.

Reduce weight inside the car. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s weight, which increases gas usage. Remove anything from the trunk or passenger area that isn’t needed for the trip. You can also research GLS600 MPG across all years to see if there is a difference in fuel economy between model years of the platform.