19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but in the realm of opulent, V8-powered, all-wheel-drive coupes, it’s almost beside the point. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic Coupe isn’t bought by penny-pinchers; it’s purchased by individuals who value effortless performance, cutting-edge technology, and undeniable presence above all else. Fuel efficiency is a tertiary concern at best, a detail overshadowed by the sensory experience this car delivers. This is motoring for the elite, where the cost extends far beyond the initial sticker price.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S550 Coupe at 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the 4.7-liter V8 is working harder to overcome the car’s weight. The highway number shows the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently when given the space. The seven-speed automatic transmission plays a critical role here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band for both performance and fuel conservation. Aggressive use of the throttle will quickly send these figures plummeting. The S550 encourages spirited driving, and succumbing to that temptation will exact a predictable cost at the pump.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic Coupe at $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing against other vehicles, but individual driving habits and local fuel prices can significantly alter this number for any given owner.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the S550 Coupe is highly dependent on driving style. A driver who frequently exploits the V8’s power will likely see numbers closer to the city rating, or even lower. Conversely, a driver who prioritizes smooth acceleration and highway cruising can potentially exceed the EPA’s highway estimate. Consider checking out S550 MPG across all years to see trends in MPG across various years of the model.

The availability of different driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport) offers some control over fuel consumption, allowing drivers to tailor the car’s behavior to the driving situation. However, restraint remains the key factor in achieving optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the S550 Coupe’s fuel economy is broadly in line with other large, powerful luxury coupes. For example, the 2016 BMW 650i xDrive Coupe, also packing a V8 and all-wheel drive, achieves EPA ratings of 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Audi S7, with its turbocharged V8, manages around 17 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. These differences are relatively minor, and likely won’t be a deciding factor for buyers in this segment. Someone considering this vehicle is unlikely to cross-shop it with, say, a hybrid Lexus where fuel efficiency is a top priority.

They are comparing it against other vehicles which also have eight-cylinder engines and offer similar levels of luxury and performance. The fuel economy differences are likely negligible to this buyer.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Eco” driving mode when possible, especially during city driving. This mode remaps the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance. It can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption without sacrificing too much driving enjoyment in everyday situations, and ensure that the tires are properly inflated.

Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly impacts fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level specified on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The S550’s powerful engine is always eager to respond, but rapid acceleration burns fuel quickly. Practice smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize hard braking. Consider also that the 7-speed automatic transmission is refined and smart. Let it do its job. Don’t manually downshift aggressively unless absolutely necessary.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or back seats reduces fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential for the current trip. While the S550 is designed for comfort and luxury, it is still subject to the laws of physics.

Ensure that the car is properly maintained. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures that the engine is running at its optimal efficiency. Addressing any mechanical issues promptly can prevent them from negatively impacting fuel economy. Use only the recommended premium fuel, as specified by Mercedes-Benz. Premium fuel is formulated to prevent knocking and maintain optimal engine performance, which can contribute to better fuel efficiency. If you are interested in all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, be sure to check it out for more ways to save on fuel.