18 MPG combined might make many car shoppers think twice. But the 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4matic isn’t just any car. It’s a 577-horsepower, handcrafted performance sedan designed to obliterate asphalt and pamper its occupants equally. Fuel efficiency is, frankly, a secondary concern for buyers of this car.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the E63 AMG S are 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects urban driving’s frequent stops and starts, which constantly require the heavy sedan to accelerate from a standstill. Those bursts of acceleration, even gentle ones, tap into the strong reserves of the 5.5-liter V8. On the open highway, with consistent speeds, the E63 AMG S does better, although 22 MPG is still hardly Prius territory. The 7-speed automatic transmission offers quick and precise shifts, but it’s programmed for performance, holding gears longer to keep the engine in its power band instead of prioritizing fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG S 4matic will be about $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is required for this engine, which will increase the overall cost. The $3,200 expense is a result of the E63’s potent engine. Buyers choosing this sedan will pay a premium at the pump.

Real-world expectations

Enthusiast vehicles like the E63 AMG S often don’t achieve EPA figures. Owners of these vehicles tend to drive them hard, enjoying the available power frequently. Expect the city MPG to dip below the 15 MPG estimate if you’re engaging in spirited driving. Highway MPG is likely achievable, but only if you actively try to save fuel.

The E63 comes with driving modes that affect throttle response and transmission mapping. Selecting the “Comfort” mode will soften the car’s character and promote earlier upshifts, helping to keep fuel consumption closer to the EPA estimates.

How it Compares

The E63’s fuel economy lands as expected among its contemporaries. The 2015 BMW M5, with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, delivers an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined, making it similar. Audi’s RS7, with its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, achieves a slightly better 19 MPG combined. However, the differences are small when comparing these high-performance sedans. Buyers are more likely to decide based on brand preference, styling, or performance characteristics. See all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data. If this isn’t the right year for you, consider viewing E63 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Comfort” driving mode whenever possible; this will soften the throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, keeping the engine in a more fuel-efficient range. “Sport” and “Sport+” modes are fun, but they also use more gas.

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The E63 AMG S has immense power, but every hard launch or sudden burst of speed impacts fuel consumption. Smooth and controlled acceleration will help you save fuel without sacrificing too much performance.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to higher emissions. The start/stop system can help with this, but some owners prefer to disable it.