19 MPG combined is a figure that 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 4matic buyers have already accepted and likely don’t dwell upon. This isn’t a car purchased for hyper-miling; this is a 577 horsepower sledgehammer that happens to have a luxurious interior and seating for five. Fuel economy is a secondary, or even tertiary concern for the fortunate few who prioritize raw power and performance above all else.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 AMG E63 4matic achieves 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure is a direct result of the powerful 5.5L twin-turbocharged V8 needing significant fuel to overcome inertia and provide its signature rapid acceleration. Highway driving, with less frequent acceleration and more consistent speeds, allows the engine to operate more efficiently, but it is still significantly impacted by the car’s weight and aerodynamic profile.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 AMG E63 4matic at $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a percentage split between city and highway driving that reflects typical usage, and uses the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Of course, this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and current fuel prices. Drivers who frequently exploit the AMG’s power will undoubtedly exceed this figure, while those who adopt a more conservative driving style could potentially spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy for the AMG E63 4matic is highly dependent on driving style. Drivers who regularly engage in spirited acceleration, use the car’s launch control feature, and spend a significant amount of time in stop-and-go traffic can expect to see numbers closer to the city rating, or even lower. On the other hand, those who primarily use the car for long highway trips, and exercise restraint with the throttle, could potentially achieve figures closer to, or slightly above, the EPA’s highway estimate. Finding the right balance to enjoy bursts of speed while maintaining decent fuel consumption is the key. You can compare these expectation to AMG MPG across all years.

How it compares

In the realm of high-performance luxury sedans, fuel economy is rarely a top priority, but it’s still a factor for some buyers. The 2016 BMW M5, with its 4.4L twin-turbo V8, offered similar performance but slightly improved fuel economy, rated at 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Cadillac CTS-V, with its supercharged 6.2L V8, was closer in performance and MPG, with a rating of 14 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. The Audi RS7, with its 4.0L twin-turbo V8, also provided comparable performance and delivered an estimated 16 City / 25 Hwy MPG. These comparisons highlight where the AMG E63 4matic sits within its competitive set, acceptably thirsty, but not wildly out of line given its power output. Shoppers can compare this model to all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data as well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG E63 4matic is not designed for low fuel consumption, there are still steps you can take to improve efficiency without sacrificing too much performance. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The AMG’s strong engine and heavy curb weight require significant fuel to overcome inertia, and frequent bursts of speed quickly deplete the fuel tank.

Ensure the car is properly maintained, including regular tire inflation and oil changes. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, while old or dirty oil reduces engine efficiency. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep the engine running optimally.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods, such as when waiting in traffic or running errands, wastes fuel. Modern engines generally do not need to be warmed up for more than a minute or two before driving, even in cold weather.

Use cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can significantly improve fuel economy. However, be mindful of hills and traffic conditions, as the cruise control may downshift aggressively to maintain speed, negating some of the fuel savings.

Consider using the car’s “Comfort” or “Eco” driving mode, if equipped. These modes typically reduce throttle response and shift points, promoting more fuel-efficient driving. While these modes may slightly tame the AMG’s ferocious performance, they can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption, particularly in city driving.