19 MPG combined is what you get when choosing a 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic. This isn’t a startlingly low number, given the car’s purpose: effortless power, supreme comfort, and technological innovation in a package that shows success. This car isn’t for fuel misers; it’s for the executive who values a quiet commute and easy cross-country trips, not worried about small fuel costs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2015 S550 4matic gets 16 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. That range reflects the twin-turbocharged 4.7L V8’s nature. In cities, stop-and-go traffic causes frequent turbo boost, which impacts fuel consumption. But on the open road, the S550’s engine settles into a relaxed cruise. The seven-speed automatic transmission finds the best gear, and the abundance of torque allows easy passing without much throttle. The all-wheel drive system enhances grip and stability, it also adds a small amount of drag that slightly affects fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic at $3,050. This number is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. It’s a standard estimate for easy comparison between vehicles. S550 owners often consider this cost a relatively small expense. Local fuel prices and individual driving habits can change this figure.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a valuable benchmark, but real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and long idling times will all decrease fuel economy. On the other hand, careful acceleration, watching traffic, and consistent highway cruising can sometimes bring results closer to or even slightly above the EPA’s estimates. The S550’s weight also affects efficiency. Carrying extra passengers or cargo will have an impact, too. The car’s drivetrain management system optimizes engine performance for current conditions, to maximize fuel efficiency without losing quickness.

How it compares

The 2015 S550 4matic’s fuel economy is in line with its competitors. The BMW 750i xDrive, with its similar engine, has nearly identical EPA ratings, and the Audi A8 4.0T quattro achieves similar numbers. The Lexus LS 460 is known for reliability, but gets 19 mpg combined in its rear-wheel drive form, and less with all-wheel drive, it can be beat by the S550. For the S550 buyer, performance, luxury, and relative efficiency within its class outweigh outright fuel savings. Shoppers can find S550 MPG across all years on this site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

On the highway, use cruise control when you can. The S550’s adaptive cruise control system keeps a constant speed and following distance, which reduces quick accelerations and decelerations that waste fuel. Its predictive features can slow the car down for sharp turns or exit ramps, and increase efficiency.

Make sure tires are properly inflated. The correct tire pressure minimizes rolling resistance and improves MPG. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure. Check the pressure regularly, especially when the temperature changes, tire pressure decreases in cold weather.

Keep idling to a minimum. The S550’s engine uses fuel even when stopped. Avoid unneeded idling, such as when waiting in parking lots or drive-thrus. If you expect a long stop, turn off the engine. The car’s electronic systems will stay on for a short time thanks to the auxillary battery.

Reduce the load. Remove extra items from the trunk and cabin. Extra weight increases the engine’s job and reduces fuel efficiency, especially during acceleration and hill climbing. For information about the S-Class and all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data check our website.

Think about which driving mode you’re using. The S550 has “Comfort” and “Sport” drive modes. “Comfort” prioritizes fuel efficiency, while “Sport” allows for a more aggressive engine and transmission mapping, which wastes fuel. “Comfort” should be selected if it does not interfere with safety.