17 MPG combined for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus Coupe 4.0L 8-cyl is not a compromise; it’s a consequence, a direct result of extracting 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque from a hand-built twin-turbo V8, channeled through an all-wheel-drive system and a chassis engineered for brutal speed and astounding dynamics. This is not a vehicle purchased with frugality in mind, but rather by those who demand unfettered performance, a commanding driving position, and a coupe-like aesthetic in their high-end SUV. The buyer of an AMG GLE63 S Coupe understands and accepts that a vehicle capable of 0-60 in 3.7 seconds, with the luxurious trappings expected of a modern Mercedes-Benz, will consume premium fuel with a voracious appetite. Their driving experience is important, and the occasional trip to the pump is simply the toll for admission to this exclusive club of hyper-SUVs.

City and Highway Performance

The EPA rates the 2026 AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus Coupe at 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. These figures paint a clear picture: in urban environments, where the potent 4.0L V8 is frequently starting, stopping, and accelerating through traffic, fuel consumption naturally climbs. The weight of the vehicle, the drag of its wide tires, and the sheer power on tap all contribute to this city-cycle reality. On the open highway, however, the picture improves. The 9-speed automatic transmission actively seeks its taller gears, allowing the engine to settle into a more efficient cruising RPM. Here, the aerodynamics of the coupe body style, combined with the engine’s ability to loaf along with significant power reserves, yield a more respectable, if still performance-oriented, fuel economy. The 21 MPG highway figure is impressive for a vehicle of this size, power, and capability, demonstrating modern engine management and transmission design balancing exhilarating performance with reasonable long-haul efficiency.

Annual Fuel Cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus Coupe at precisely $3,400. This figure is derived from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven per year, split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. For the typical owner of this vehicle, this cost is a line item in a much larger budget for ownership, including depreciation, insurance, and routine maintenance that align with a high-performance luxury automobile. The individual who opts for a 603-horsepower AMG SUV is not typically scrutinizing fuel expenses down to the last dollar; rather, they understand that exceptional performance and exclusivity come with a commensurate operating cost. This $3,400 annually is simply the expected consequence of owning and driving a vehicle of this caliber.

Real-World Expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the AMG GLE63 S Coupe should anticipate varying significantly from the EPA estimates, largely influenced by driving style. The very nature of this vehicle invites spirited driving. Frequent, hard acceleration to fully exploit the 603 horsepower will see city MPG drop closer to the low teens, or even single digits, for brief bursts of exhilaration. Similarly, sustained high-speed cruising, particularly if paired with dynamic driving through twisty sections, will keep the engine operating at higher loads, reducing highway efficiency. Conversely, a disciplined driver using cruise control on long, flat highway stretches, perhaps in the vehicle’s Comfort drive mode, might even nudge slightly above the 21 MPG highway rating. The mild-hybrid EQ Boost system, while not designed primarily for fuel economy, does offer some assistance in stop-and-go traffic by allowing for smoother restarts and providing a small electric assist. Ultimately, the AMG GLE63 S Coupe’s fuel economy is a reflection of how much an owner taps into its formidable performance reserves.

How It Compares

When stacked against its direct competitors, the 2026 AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus Coupe’s 17 MPG combined rating positions it squarely within its high-performance segment. The BMW X6 M Competition, for example, with its 617-horsepower twin-turbo V8, returns an identical 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway / 17 MPG combined. Similarly, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo Coupe, armed with 631 horsepower, also achieves 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway / 17 MPG combined. The Audi RS Q8, though slightly less powerful at 591 horsepower, mirrors these figures precisely. Even the more exotic Lamborghini Urus, a natural cross-shop for some, manages 14 MPG city / 19 MPG highway / 16 MPG combined. These comparisons show a consistent ceiling for vehicles that combine this level of engine output, substantial weight, all-wheel drive, and a focus on ultimate driving performance. For this specific class of buyer, a 1 MPG difference here or there is largely irrelevant; they are purchasing a brand experience and a performance envelope, not a fuel sipper. Explore AMG MPG across all years for a broader perspective on their performance-oriented lineup.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is a foundational step. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the powerful 4.0L V8 to work harder, especially noticeable in city driving and during aggressive cornering that the AMG GLE63 S Coupe is designed for. Adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures ensures optimal contact patch and minimizes friction.

Aggressive driving is the primary antagonist to fuel economy in a vehicle like the AMG GLE63 S Coupe. While irresistibly tempting, avoiding frequent wide-open throttle applications and abrupt braking will significantly improve consumption. Using a smoother driving style, anticipating traffic flow, and maintaining consistent speeds are key.

For highway journeys, engaging the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control and selecting the ‘Comfort’ drive mode allows the 9-speed transmission to optimize gear selection for efficiency. This prevents the powertrain from holding lower gears longer than necessary, letting the large V8 settle into its most economical RPM range.

Minimize unnecessary weight. While the AMG GLE63 S Coupe is a heavy vehicle to begin with, removing heavy items from the trunk or cabin when not needed can offer a marginal improvement. Every pound adds to the engine’s workload, and in a high-performance vehicle, even small reductions can contribute to overall efficiency.

Consider the benefits of lighter wheels if performance upgrades are on your radar. Reducing unsprung mass not only improves handling and acceleration but can also have a subtle, positive impact on fuel economy by lessening the energy required to rotate the wheels. For more about Mercedes-Benz’s overall efficiency, check out all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.