15 MPG combined is never going to win any awards for frugality, but for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Coupe, it’s an expected detail. This is a car of thunderous V8 power, gullwing doors, and a singular focus on performance. Its buyer isn’t cross-shopping with hybrids; they’re acquiring a modern classic, a visceral experience, and a head-turning statement. Fuel economy is a distant consideration at best.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the SLS AMG GT Coupe break down to 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go inefficiencies inherent in urban driving, made worse by the car’s large displacement engine and relatively heavy curb weight. The highway number is more palatable, suggesting a degree of cruising efficiency that’s possible when the engine is operating at a more consistent load. However, resist the urge to bury the throttle, and you’ll have a better chance of approaching that 19 MPG figure. The AMG’s 6.2-liter V8 is always urging you to unleash its power, regardless of the posted limit.

Annual fuel cost

Based on these MPG figures, the EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,850 for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG GT Coupe. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using prevailing national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate. Drivers who spend more time in dense urban areas, or those with a heavy foot, can expect to exceed this amount. Similarly, those who drive fewer miles per year will likely spend less. Fuel costs may also be higher in certain states due to state taxes. For drivers passionate about Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, you can see how this vehicle compares to others at SLS MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy for the SLS AMG GT Coupe is highly driver-dependent. Those who frequently indulge in the car’s prodigious acceleration and enjoy spirited drives on winding roads will likely see figures significantly lower than the official numbers. The SLS is not a car that encourages restraint. Its soundtrack alone is enough to provoke a heavy right foot. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic, and spend more time on open highways may find themselves closer to the EPA estimates. One thing is certain: nobody buys an SLS MPG Coupe to save money at the pump. They buy it for the experience.

How it compares

For context, consider some potential alternatives from 2015. The Ferrari 458 Italia Coupe, a direct competitor in terms of performance and exclusivity, had an EPA-estimated combined MPG of 15, mirroring the SLS AMG GT Coupe. The Porsche 911 Turbo S, another high-performance option, fared slightly better at a combined 19 MPG. Even the contemporary BMW M6 Gran Coupe, a more practical four-door option with similar performance aspirations, achieved a combined 17 MPG. The SLS delivers similar economy to other supercars. These figures reflect the SLS’s focus on raw power over efficiency. While the Porsche offers a notable advantage, the Ferrari is closely matched, reflecting the tradeoffs inherent in extracting immense performance from a naturally aspirated engine.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing maximum MPGs from an SLS AMG GT Coupe might seem like a fool’s errand, there are a few strategies that can help minimize fuel consumption. The car’s transmission offers various driving modes, including an “Efficiency” setting. Using this mode can temper throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, resulting in lower fuel consumption.

Smooth and steady acceleration is key to minimizing fuel usage, regardless of the vehicle. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, and try to anticipate traffic flow to maintain a consistent speed. The SLS AMG GT Coupe’s powerful engine is particularly susceptible to rapid fuel consumption under hard acceleration.

Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal fuel economy. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check your tires regularly.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the car’s overall weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any items from the trunk and cabin that are not essential. While this impact is most pronounced in smaller cars, it can still help in the SLS.