15 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards; it’s thirsty. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S focuses on raw performance alongside Mercedes-Benz luxury. This SUV, with its hand-built 5.5L V8, moves you and your family with serious power, shrinking distances. Fuel efficiency is a low priority for buyers of this AMG.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLE63 S at 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These numbers show what happens when a heavy vehicle with a powerful engine navigates stop-and-go traffic. City MPG suffers from constant acceleration and braking. The highway number, while not stellar, is achievable if you resist using the V8’s passing power. These are estimates, and your mileage will vary based on driving style and traffic. Frequent launch control will result in much worse fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S annual fuel cost at $3,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the EPA’s fuel economy estimates and assuming national average fuel prices. It’s expensive, but the target owners, those who prioritize performance and luxury, likely factor this cost into the ownership experience. They understand a high-performance AMG isn’t budget-friendly at the pump.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect miracles. Some drivers might get slightly better highway mileage, but you’ll likely see numbers around the EPA estimates, or lower if you accelerate quickly. The GLE63 S’s weight, combined with the engine and transmission tuning, ensures significant fuel consumption. Tire pressure, temperature, and accessories like air conditioning influence real-world fuel economy.

How it compares

The BMW X5 M, a direct competitor, offers similar performance and luxury, but its fuel economy is scarcely better at an EPA-estimated 16 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo, known for its handling, manages 17 MPG combined. Even the Range Rover Sport SVR, with a powerful engine, gets around 15 MPG combined. These high-performance SUVs consume a lot of gas. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S is not for those looking to save money on fuel. Anyone genuinely concerned with fuel economy would be better served looking at a standard GLE or even a hybrid SUV, but that’s a different car market. You can browse through all AMG MPG across all years to confirm that fuel economy is not a focus for the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The GLE63 S is tempting to drive hard, but smooth inputs will help. The power is available, but resist unless needed. Anticipate traffic and maintain a consistent speed.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the specifications listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle.

Schedule regular maintenance. A maintained engine is more efficient. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug services.

Use premium fuel as recommended. The GLE63 S requires premium gasoline for performance and fuel efficiency. Using a lower grade can decrease performance and potentially damage the engine.