18 MPG combined. That’s the hard truth for anyone considering a 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic wagon. But let’s be honest: If agonizing over fuel efficiency were a top priority, you wouldn’t be cross-shopping it against other powerful wagons and SUVs. This isn’t a car for the penny-pincher. It’s the ultimate “have your cake and eat it too” vehicle for the enthusiast who needs to haul kids, groceries, and the occasional set of track day tires, all while delivering supercar-rivaling acceleration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the E63 S wagon achieves 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. While these numbers might induce anxiety in Prius drivers, they’re arguably reasonable given the car’s immense capabilities. This beast packs a hand-built 5.5L twin-turbo V8, churning out a colossal 577 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. That power is routed through a seven-speed automatic transmission and, crucially, all-wheel drive (4matic in Mercedes-speak). Blasting from a standstill to 60 mph takes a scant 3.6 seconds. The relatively low highway figure reflects the reality that keeping all that power in check is tough, and the temptation to explore its upper limits is ever-present.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic wagon at $3,200. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year and uses the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which this car requires. It’s a sober reminder that enjoying the performance benefits of the AMG badge comes with a continuous fee that is likely to significantly exceed the expense of filling up a standard economy car. Accept it as part of the experience.

Real-world expectations

Consider the official EPA numbers as a baseline rather than a guarantee. Aggressive driving will quickly send your MPG plummeting, especially in the city. Conversely, careful highway cruising might yield slightly better results, but don’t expect miracles. The sheer weight of the vehicle (over 4,600 pounds) coupled with the enthusiastic nature of its engine will always demand a certain amount of fuel. Expect your mileage to fluctuate based on driving style, traffic conditions, and the ever-present urge to unleash the V8 roar.

Those who enjoy the car’s performance attributes are less likely to fret about the fuel bill and are willing to accept the cost for the joy it brings.

How it compares

The E63 S wagon has a unique appeal, but it’s worth considering some alternatives. The Audi RS6 Avant (though not directly available in the US during that time period) also delivers scorching performance and practicality, with comparable fuel consumption (expect around 15-22 MPG combined, when importing one). A Porsche Cayenne Turbo S offers similar levels of acceleration and cargo space but weighs more, contributing to a real-world MPG closer to 17 mpg combined. The BMW X5 M delivers crossover practicality with a similar MPG thanks to its turbo charged V8 (expect around 16 mpg combined). The key difference is the wagon versus SUV body style and the unique persona that comes with the E63 S.

Those in this market aren’t necessarily price-sensitive; they are choosing a lifestyle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The most effective way to improve fuel economy is to drive smoothly. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed whenever possible. The AMG E63 S’s engine is highly responsive so that you do not need to press very hard for normal driving.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which you can find on the sticker near the driver’s side door.

Eliminate unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in the car forces the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need, such as golf clubs or infrequently used tools, especially if your cargo space is normally empty.

Combine errands into a single trip. Starting a cold engine consumes more fuel than running a warm one. By grouping errands together, you minimize the number of cold starts. For more information about all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, be sure to check out our other sections. AMG also has AMG MPG across all years that has more detailed data.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed can save fuel. Cruise control helps you avoid those subtle speed fluctuations that waste gas. However, be vigilant as the transmission tends to downshift when maintaining speed, impacting fuel economy if activated on hilly roads.