18 MPG combined is likely not a primary consideration for someone buying a 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic Coupe. This car is purchased for its impressive presence, intoxicating mix of luxury and power, and the statement it makes. Fuel economy is a secondary concern, at best.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S63 Coupe at 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the inherent inefficiencies of a large, hand-built AMG engine working with a conventional automatic transmission. In stop-and-go traffic, the 5.5-liter V8 works hard to move the car’s weight, resulting in considerable fuel consumption.

On the open road, the situation improves, but even then, the S63’s shape is not designed for maximum efficiency. The seven-speed automatic, while smooth, isn’t as advanced as the nine-speeds in newer Mercedes vehicles, which also affects highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 Coupe at $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes average national fuel prices. If premium fuel costs more in your region, this number will increase. Aggressive driving will also push real-world fuel costs higher. Many owners will likely exceed the $3,200 estimate.

Real-world expectations

Forget the EPA numbers, many 2017 S63 Coupe owners report lower real-world fuel economy, especially if they regularly use the car’s performance capabilities.

Frequent hard acceleration, Sport+ mode, and track days will reduce fuel efficiency. If you spend most of your time in city traffic, expect to see 12-13 MPG. While some owners might achieve the EPA highway estimate on long trips, the temptation to enjoy the V8’s power often leads to lower averages.

How it compares

The 2017 AMG S63 Coupe doesn’t compare well to its competitors in fuel economy. The BMW M6 Gran Coupe claims 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, giving it a slight edge, even though real-world numbers are similar. The Audi RS7, with its quoted 15 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, is also slightly more economical. The Porsche Panamera Turbo, especially newer models with hybrid powertrains, offers much better fuel economy, with some achieving over 20 MPG combined.

These comparisons are unlikely to sway an S63 buyer. The AMG’s unique mix of force and luxury places it in a class of its own, where fuel efficiency is less important than the driving experience and the AMG character. You can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site, including AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy isn’t a top priority, S63 Coupe owners can take steps to improve it slightly. Keep the car in Comfort mode for daily driving. This softens throttle response, encourages earlier upshifts, and reduces fuel consumption compared to Sport modes. Avoid aggressive acceleration; smooth inputs yield better MPG.

Regular maintenance is important. A properly tuned engine with correctly inflated tires and a clean air filter will optimize combustion and reduce strain on the engine. A well-maintained engine is more efficient.

Anticipate traffic and avoid hard braking. Maintaining consistent speed requires less energy than accelerating and decelerating. This also reduces wear on the brakes and tires.

Consider cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control maintains consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. Be mindful of traffic and adjust as needed.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Removing heavy items from the trunk can help improve fuel economy a small amount. Every little bit helps.