98 MPG combined is the headline figure for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 Plus, a bold declaration of efficiency that instantly marks this vehicle as an outlier. It is fundamentally different in its energy consumption. This isn’t just about sipping fuel; it’s about redefining what a full-size luxury sedan can achieve when liberated from the internal combustion engine. For the buyer of an EQS 450 Plus, 98 MPG translates directly into reduced environmental impact, a quiet driving experience unburdened by frequent stops at the pump, and a significant statement about their priorities in sustainable luxury.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the EQS 450 Plus at 98 MPG for both city and highway driving, a uniform figure that speaks volumes about its electric powertrain’s inherent efficiency. Unlike gasoline vehicles, where stop-and-go city traffic often penalizes fuel economy more severely than steady highway cruising, the electric motor in the EQS thrives in both environments. In urban settings, regenerative braking recaptures energy that would otherwise be lost, effectively extending range and maintaining that impressive 98 MPG. On the highway, the EQS benefits from its exceptionally aerodynamic design, allowing it to glide with minimal resistance. This flat 98/98 MPG rating reinforces the vehicle’s suitability for a broad spectrum of driving conditions, from the daily commute through congested urban landscapes to extended cross-country tours. The smooth, single-speed automatic transmission (A1) ensures power delivery is always optimized, contributing to this consistent efficiency profile.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA’s estimated annual fuel cost for the 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 Plus stands at an estimated $750 per year. This figure is calculated based on an assumption of 15,000 miles driven annually, using national average electricity prices. For the typical EQS 450 Plus owner, this $750 represents a tangible benefit, a fraction of what they would spend fueling a comparable gasoline-powered luxury sedan. It’s an advantage of ownership, offering not just environmental responsibility but also a significant reduction in day-to-day running costs. This calculation underscores the financial advantage of transitioning to electric mobility, particularly for a vehicle in this premium segment.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA’s 98 MPG figure provides a clear benchmark, real-world efficiency in the EQS 450 Plus can fluctuate based on a few key factors. Aggressive driving, frequent use of climate control, and colder ambient temperatures will inevitably reduce the effective range and, by extension, the per-mile cost of electricity. Conversely, temperate weather, a gentle driving style, and strategic use of pre-conditioning (heating or cooling the cabin while plugged in) can push efficiency even higher. The EQS 450 Plus is engineered with battery management and thermal systems designed to optimize performance in varying conditions, but driver habits remain the most significant variable. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration, maximize regenerative braking opportunities, and avoid unnecessary high-speed cruising will find their real-world experiences closely align with, or even surpass, the EPA’s impressive estimates. The vehicle’s advanced navigation system also integrates route-based energy consumption predictions, helping drivers to manage their driving style for optimal efficiency.

How it compares

Comparing the 2026 Mercedes-Benz EQS 450 Plus to its direct competitors highlights its dominant position in terms of efficiency. Take the Tesla Model S Long Range, a perennial benchmark in the EV space, which typically achieves an EPA estimated 120 MPGe combined. While the Model S technically surpasses the EQS 450 Plus on paper, the difference of 22 MPGe is less significant to the ultra-luxury buyer than the EQS’s superior refinement, build quality, and brand prestige. Conversely, traditional gasoline-powered luxury flagships like the BMW 740i, with its 28 MPG combined, or the Audi A8 55 TFSI at 26 MPG combined, are simply in a different universe of efficiency, consuming several times more energy for the same distance. Even hybrid alternatives such as the Lexus LS 500h (29 MPG combined) cannot approach the EQS’s level of energy economy. The EQS 450 Plus buyers prioritize silent operation, instant torque, and the environmental benefits of zero tailpipe emissions, making its 98 MPG a strong justification for choosing it over any combustion-engine rival. For those interested in all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, the EQS range often leads the pack. You can also explore EQS MPG across all years for a complete picture.

Tips to maximize efficiency

To get the most out of your EQS 450 Plus, use its advanced regenerative braking. Instead of relying solely on the friction brakes, learn to anticipate stops and allow the vehicle to coast, letting the electric motors convert kinetic energy back into electricity for the battery. This not only extends your range but also reduces wear on brake components.

Pre-condition the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged in. Using grid power to heat or cool the interior before you depart drastically reduces the energy draw from the battery during your journey, preserving more of its capacity for propulsion, especially in extreme temperatures.

Use the EQS’s various driving modes. The “Eco” mode, specifically, will soften throttle response and prioritize energy conservation, making it ideal for daily commutes where maximum range is desired rather than immediate acceleration.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the electric motors to work harder and consuming more energy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially as seasons change, to ensure optimal efficiency and safety.

Consider your charging habits. While fast charging is convenient, frequently charging to 100% and allowing the battery to deplete below 20% can impact battery longevity and overall efficiency. For daily use, charging to 80% or 90% is often recommended to maintain battery health.