22 MPG combined might seem a modest figure at first glance, but for a 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4Matic+ Convertible, it represents a strong blend of exhilarating performance, open-air motoring, and daily usability. This isn’t a four-cylinder econobox, but a substantial, luxurious grand tourer designed to devour autobahn miles with speed and deliver visceral thrills on demand. The 3.0L inline-six, fortified with AMG’s electrical assistance and turbocharging, pulls with an urgency that belies its stated efficiency. Buyers of this machine aren’t prioritizing ultimate MPG above all else; they are, however, aware of the overall running costs and appreciate when a potent performance car doesn’t demand frequent visits to the fuel pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the AMG CLE53 at 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. In urban environments, those 19 city MPG figures reflect the inherent demands of stop-and-go traffic on a powerful powerplant, even one bolstered by mild-hybrid technology. The Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) on the CLE53’s 3.0L straight-six does its best to smooth out auto start/stop functions and provide an electric boost, mitigating some of the fuel-sapping characteristics of dense city driving. However, the sheer mass of the vehicle, combined with its instantaneous throttle response begging to be exploited, means frequent acceleration will inevitably dip fuel economy. On the open road, the 26 highway MPG rating becomes far more attainable. This is where the CLE53 truly shines as a cruiser, effortlessly maintaining triple-digit speeds with minimal fuss and impressive efficiency for its class. The 9-speed automatic transmission plays a critical role here, keeping revs low at cruising speeds, allowing the engine to operate within its most efficient RPM range. Long distances are dispatched with a sense of refined urgency, meaning fewer fuel stops disrupt the journey.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,650 for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz AMG CLE53 4Matic+ Convertible. This figure is calculated based on an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. For a vehicle of this caliber, offering 443 horsepower and the undeniable prestige of an AMG badge, this annual spend registers as a palatable component of the overall ownership experience. Buyers of the CLE53 know they’re not purchasing a budget vehicle, and the fuel cost aligns with the premium nature of the car and its performance capabilities. It’s a transparent and predictable cost within the broader context of luxury performance car ownership.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the AMG CLE53 Convertible can expect to see figures closely aligned with, or slightly below, the EPA estimates, depending heavily on driving style. The character of this vehicle, with its intoxicating exhaust note and instant torque delivery, encourages spirited driving, which will naturally reduce fuel efficiency. If you’re constantly exploiting the 443 horsepower and the additional 23 hp from the ISG, expect to be closer to the 19 MPG city figure, even on mixed routes. Conversely, disciplined highway cruising with the top down on an extended road trip will likely see you hitting or even exceeding the 26 MPG highway rating. The 4Matic+ all-wheel drive, while delivering exceptional traction and handling, does introduce a marginal efficiency penalty compared to a purely RWD equivalent, but its contribution to all-weather performance and driver confidence is invaluable for this clientele. The key takeaway for the AMG CLE53 buyer is that while the engine is capable of respectable economy, especially on long hauls, its primary mission is performance and engagement, and driving it as intended will lean towards the lower end of the MPG spectrum.

How it compares

The 2025 AMG CLE53 operates in a segment where performance and luxury often outweigh absolute fuel economy, but its 22 MPG combined figure holds its own. Consider immediate rivals. The BMW M440i xDrive Convertible, another inline-six mild-hybrid offering, achieves a nearly identical 24 MPG combined (21 city/29 highway using its 3.0L turbo six with 382 hp). The AMG CLE53’s superior horsepower output with essentially matching efficiency is due to its powertrain. Moving to something like the Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet, with its base 3.0L twin-turbo flat-six, it registers 20 MPG combined (18 city/25 highway), demonstrating that the AMG’s integrated mild-hybrid system does offer tangible benefits in efficiency without compromising outright power. Even looking at something like an Audi S5 Cabriolet, with its 3.0L turbo V6, delivers around 23 MPG combined (20 city/28 highway). The competitive landscape clearly shows that the AMG CLE53’s 22 MPG combined is not an outlier; it’s a strong showing for a potent, luxurious convertible. For buyers considering all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, the CLE53 sits as an efficient choice within the AMG performance hierarchy, particularly when looking at AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG CLE53 is built for exhilaration, driving can nudge its fuel economy upwards. Smooth acceleration and braking are important; avoid aggressive throttle inputs and hard stops, which waste fuel and generate unnecessary wear on components. Engaging the “Comfort” or “Eco” driving modes will soften throttle response and optimize transmission shift points for efficiency, making a noticeable difference in city driving particularly.

Maintaining consistent speeds on the highway, ideally within speed limits, allows the 9-speed automatic to settle into its highest gears and keeps the engine operating at its most efficient rev range. Using the adaptive cruise control can help achieve this consistency and smooth out speed fluctuations.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly checking and adjusting pressures is a simple, yet effective, measure.

Minimizing unnecessary weight in the trunk or rear seat areas also contributes to improved efficiency. While seemingly minor for a car of this size, every pound the engine doesn’t have to move translates to less fuel consumed over time. Be mindful of roof racks or other aerodynamic add-ons, which can significantly increase drag.

Plan your routes to avoid heavy traffic and extended idling. Idling burns fuel at a rate of approximately 0.5 to 0.7 gallons per hour, and the CLE53’s mild-hybrid system, while effective, can only do so much to negate the impact of prolonged stationary periods.