15 MPG combined. You don’t buy a 2015 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe with its naturally-aspirated 6.2L V8 to save fuel. You buy it for the thunderous soundtrack, the immediate throttle response, and the sheer visceral thrill that only a big, powerful engine can deliver. Fuel economy is simply not a top priority for someone signing on the dotted line for this particular piece of German muscle.

City and highway performance

The EPA ratings for the C63 AMG Coupe break down to 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the engine is frequently accelerating from a standstill. The highway number, while still low by modern standards, is attainable if you can resist the urge to bury the throttle and experience the intoxicating rush of acceleration. Maintaining a steady speed on the open road will yield closer to the advertised 19 MPG, but realistically, a lead foot will quickly negate any attempts at fuel conservation. This isn’t a car that lends itself to gentle cruising.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG Coupe is $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, actual fuel costs can vary significantly depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Given the C63 AMG’s thirst for premium gasoline, prices at the pump are going to sting more than with a typical economy car. This is a cost of ownership many C63 buyers are willing to accept.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the C63 AMG Coupe often falls short. Enthusiastic driving, which is almost impossible to avoid in this car, will drastically reduce those numbers. Expect combined figures in the low teens, and potentially single digits if you frequently indulge in spirited acceleration and track days. The sheer temptation to unleash the engine’s power will constantly fight against any attempts at fuel conservation. Remember that all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data demonstrates a range of efficiency, and the C63 sits at the low end. You can see C63 MPG across all years to understand the historical context.

How it compares

Compared to its contemporaries, the 2015 C63 AMG Coupe is undeniably thirsty. BMW’s M4 of the same year, with its turbocharged inline-six, boasts a much more respectable 20 MPG combined. Even the Audi RS5, with its naturally-aspirated V8 (albeit a smaller displacement one), managed around 18 MPG combined. The Cadillac ATS-V, with its twin-turbo V6, also offered better fuel economy. However, these competitors deliver a different driving experience. The C63’s naturally aspirated engine provides a level of responsiveness and a characteristic engine note that many find irreplaceable, even if it comes at the cost of efficiency. For many buyers, the trade-off is well worth it.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While outright fuel efficiency is not the C63 AMG’s strong suit, there are steps you can take to minimize fuel consumption. Avoiding rapid acceleration and braking can help squeeze a bit more mileage out of each tank. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a smooth, consistent speed whenever possible.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust as needed to maintain the recommended levels.

Limit idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.

Remove any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra weight puts additional strain on the engine, leading to increased fuel consumption. Clean out any unneeded items from the trunk and cabin to reduce the overall load on the car.