The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE400 4matic gets 20 MPG combined in real-world driving. While this isn’t amazing for all cars in general, it’s acceptable for a mid-size luxury SUV that focuses on a smooth and powerful driving experience. The GLE400 is for drivers who want the Mercedes-Benz brand, a comfortable interior, and the power of its turbocharged V6. For them, fuel economy is less important than the SUV’s good qualities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLE400 4matic gets 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city MPG shows what happens in stop-and-go traffic, where the SUV’s weight uses more fuel. The highway number is better, because the 9-speed automatic transmission can cruise efficiently at higher speeds. Getting 23 MPG requires a light foot and resisting the urge to accelerate. Passing other cars is easy in the GLE400, but it uses more gas.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE400 4matic at $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average national gas prices. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, the gas you use, and local gas prices. Driving fast, short trips, and using premium fuel (which is recommended, but not required) will increase how much you spend on gas each year. These costs are part of owning a luxury SUV, and GLE400 owners usually expect them. You can also compare GLE400 MPG across all years to see how changes have affected fuel costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can be different. GLE400 owners often get numbers close to the EPA estimates, but those who drive in the city a lot often see lower numbers. If you mostly drive on the highway, you might get more than 23 MPG. Driving style, tire pressure, car maintenance, and weather can change these results. Your mileage will be different, but aiming for the EPA’s range is reasonable. Don’t forget to check all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to have some context for your GLE400’s fuel economy.

How it compares

The GLE400’s fuel economy is average for a mid-size luxury SUV. A BMW X5 xDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-6, gets about the same EPA ratings, around 18 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Acura MDX, with its V6 and front-wheel-drive-based all-wheel-drive system, gets slightly better numbers, around 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway, but lacks the GLE400’s powertrain feel. Even the Lexus RX 350, known for its reliability and comfort, gets slightly better MPG at 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. This comparison is important because GLE400 buyers often consider these other cars too. Fuel economy might not be the most important thing, but it matters. The GLE400 often wins because of its interior design, brand, and driving experience. Some buyers choose the GLE350, which has slightly better MPG at an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The “Eco” mode changes how the car works to save gas. While it might make the car a little slower, it can help save gas, especially when driving in the city.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure often and make sure they are at the recommended levels, which you can find on the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. This can add 1-2 MPG.

Remove extra weight. Extra cargo makes the engine work harder and use more gas. Remove anything you don’t need to improve fuel efficiency. A clean car helps your wallet.

Watch traffic and drive smoothly. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, which waste gas. By watching traffic and driving at a steady speed, you can use less fuel. Know your route and pick the one with the fewest stops to save gas.

Follow the maintenance schedule. A well-maintained engine uses less gas. Follow the Mercedes-Benz’s maintenance schedule, including oil changes and tune-ups, to keep the car running well and save gas. Changing your oil when directed will save you more money in the long run.