20 MPG combined is what you get when you buy the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4matic Coupe. It’s a trade-off for those who value performance and unique styling more than saving fuel in a compact luxury SUV. You buy a GLC43 Coupe for its snarling exhaust, the quick power of the turbocharged V6, and its striking appearance.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates show decent, but not class-leading, fuel economy. Expect 18 MPG in city driving. This number is affected by stop-and-go traffic and the GLC43’s quick acceleration. On the highway, the 24 MPG rating is better and achievable when cruising at a consistent speed. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps by keeping the engine at its most efficient at higher speeds. However, accelerating quickly to pass another car or driving above the speed limit will decrease that number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4matic Coupe is $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which the GLC43’s turbocharged engine requires. Individual fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, local fuel prices, and the number of miles you drive each year. Someone who mostly drives in the city and accelerates hard will likely spend more, while a driver who mostly drives on the highway and drives more conservatively may spend closer to or even slightly less than that amount.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good starting point, real-world fuel economy often differs. The GLC43’s sensitive throttle and addictive exhaust sound encourage drivers to accelerate more than they might in a less exciting car. Combine this with traffic and wanting to drive fast sometimes, and you’ll probably see numbers close to the EPA estimates. Owners who carefully track their fuel use and try to save gas might get slightly better results, especially on long highway trips. In general, 20 MPG combined is what most drivers can expect.

How it compares

The GLC43 Coupe’s fuel economy is about average compared to its competitors. The BMW X4 M40i, which also focuses on performance, gets almost the same 21 MPG combined. The Porsche Macan S offers similar performance to the GLC43 and gets 19 MPG combined, while the Macan GTS, with its more powerful engine, gets 17 MPG combined. Audi’s SQ5 is close at 21 MPG combined. Buyers often compare these models, which makes this comparison important. The MPG differences, though not huge, can matter to buyers who care about fuel economy. For a broader comparison, see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to see how the GLC43 compares within its own brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The GLC43 has selectable driving modes. Use Comfort mode to soften the throttle and optimize the transmission for saving gas. It’s best for commuting and highway driving when you don’t need to accelerate quickly. Sport or Sport+ modes will reduce fuel economy.

Avoid constantly pressing the accelerator hard. The GLC43’s turbocharged engine provides plenty of torque at low RPM, so accelerating gently is often enough for merging and driving in traffic. Smooth, consistent throttle inputs will help save fuel.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and keep them at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. You can usually find these levels on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce extra weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack increases fuel consumption. Remove what you don’t need to reduce the vehicle’s weight and improve how air flows around it.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing changes in throttle input and improving fuel efficiency. Remember to pay attention to your surroundings and turn it off when needed.

Those searching for other performace vehicles should view the AMG MPG across all years.