15 MPG combined. That’s the stark reality facing anyone considering the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S Coupe. It’s a number that would typically send fuel-conscious buyers running, but for those drawn to this aggressively styled and powerfully built machine, it’s arguably a secondary concern. These buyers prioritize thunderous acceleration, coupe-like looks on an SUV body, and the prestige of the AMG badge above all else. Fuel efficiency? That’s just the price of admission to a very exclusive club.

City and highway performance

Breaking down that 15 MPG figure reveals the details of the GLE63 S Coupe’s thirst. The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, constantly demanding power from the 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8. The highway figure is slightly more palatable, but the heavy curb weight and permanent all-wheel drive still affect the mileage, even at a steady cruising speed. This isn’t a vehicle designed for maximizing efficiency; it’s engineered for delivering relentless performance, and those two objectives rarely align.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,850 for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S Coupe, based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. This is a significant sum, reflecting both the vehicle’s low MPG and its requirement for premium fuel. This cost represents a substantial ongoing expense, but for owners already considering the six-figure purchase price of this high-performance SUV, it might be viewed as a manageable part of the overall ownership experience. The calculation assumes a roughly even split between city and highway driving; those who predominantly drive in the city should expect to exceed this figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the GLE63 S Coupe often varies depending on driving style and conditions. A heavy foot will quickly send MPG figures plummeting below the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. Conversely, conservative highway cruising might yield slightly better results. However, it’s unlikely that most owners will consistently achieve the EPA’s 18 MPG highway rating, given the temptation to exploit the vehicle’s power whenever possible. For these drivers, filling up the fuel tank every few days is simply part of the lifestyle that comes with owning such a specialized vehicle. You can see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on this site.

How it compares

The GLE63 S Coupe doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Comparing it to other high-performance SUVs highlights its relative fuel consumption. The 2016 BMW X6 M, a direct competitor, achieves a similar 16 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, another performance-focused option, delivers a nearly identical 15 MPG combined. Even within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the standard GLE SUV with a smaller engine, but not an AMG engine, offers significantly better fuel economy. For example, the GLE450 manages around 20 MPG combined. But those vehicles lack the performance and aggressive styling of the AMG GLE63 S Coupe, which is the entire point for its target buyer. Even comparing AMG MPG across all years shows this model is a relative gas guzzler. It’s a question of priorities, and for GLE63 S Coupe owners, performance trumps efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While outright fuel efficiency might not be the primary concern, there are still steps owners can take to reduce the GLE63 S Coupe’s thirst. One key strategy is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, which can significantly affect fuel consumption. Instead, focus on maintaining a steady speed and anticipating traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops and starts.

Regular maintenance is also critical. Ensuring that the engine is properly tuned, the tires are correctly inflated, and the air filter is clean can help optimize fuel efficiency. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, while properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance. Neglecting these basic maintenance tasks can lead to a gradual decrease in fuel economy over time.

Use the vehicle’s driving modes strategically. The GLE63 S Coupe typically offers various driving modes, such as Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. Selecting Comfort mode can prioritize fuel efficiency by adjusting engine and transmission settings. While it might slightly reduce performance, it can make a noticeable difference on longer journeys.

Consider limiting short trips. Cold starts are particularly detrimental to fuel economy, as the engine operates less efficiently until it reaches its optimal temperature. Combining multiple errands into a single trip can help minimize the number of cold starts and improve overall fuel consumption.