20 MPG combined isn’t headline-grabbing for fuel efficiency, but for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550, it’s quietly accepted by those who value luxury and effortless performance. The MPG is a compromise from the powerful V8 engine and the car’s heavy construction, defining features of the S-Class.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 S550 are 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway, numbers that reflect the car’s behavior in different conditions. In urban settings, the 4.7L V8 works harder due to stop-and-go traffic and acceleration, resulting in lower city MPG. On the open road, the S550 shines. Its 7-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise efficiently, using its torque for respectable highway fuel economy. The S550 buyer likely isn’t focused on maximizing every mile per gallon, but the highway figure allows comfortable long-distance trips with fewer fuel stops.

Annual fuel cost

Owning a luxury sedan like the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 includes the annual fuel cost. The EPA estimates this at $2,900 per year, based on driving 15,000 miles annually with a mix of city and highway driving, using average gasoline prices. While this amount may seem high compared to more fuel-efficient vehicles, it’s an estimate. Actual fuel costs vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. S550 owners prioritize the driving experience over the relatively small operating expense.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a benchmark, real-world MPG varies based on driving style, traffic, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration, hard braking, and prolonged idling will lower fuel economy. However, smooth driving, especially on the highway, can improve upon EPA estimates. Expect figures within a +/- 2MPG range of the official numbers. To get significantly better fuel economy requires consciously modifying driving habits due to the S550’s powerful engine and weight.

How it compares

The 2016 Mercedes S550 isn’t a fuel-efficient car. It competes with other performance-focused vehicles. For example, the BMW 750i from the same model year, with its 4.4L V8, gets roughly 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Audi A8 4.0T, another competitor, gets around 19 MPG combined. Even the Porsche Panamera 4S offers similar MPG figures. Reviewing S550 MPG across all years confirms that better fuel economy in this class requires hybrid or diesel powertrains. These luxury automakers make up for fuel economy with horsepower and features. For better fuel efficiency within Mercedes-Benz, consider models like the C300 or reviewing all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to assess better options.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently. The S550 has tremendous power, but using it all the time affects fuel economy. Smooth acceleration helps the engine operate efficiently, especially in city driving, saving fuel.

Maintain consistent tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and check it regularly to maintain good fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. Idling wastes fuel. If you expect to stop for more than a minute or two, such as waiting in a parking lot, turn off the engine. The S550’s features, like its climate control system, can restart quickly.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, optimizing fuel economy on long trips. By minimizing speed changes, cruise control helps the engine operate efficiently, improving MPG on the highway.

Use premium fuel as recommended. The S550’s engine is designed for premium fuel, which has a higher octane amount. While the car may run on regular gasoline, using premium fuel helps prevent engine knocking and maintain performance and fuel efficiency.