The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic Coupe gets 20 MPG combined. This is what you should expect when buying one and gaining access to effortless power, opulent luxury, and undeniable presence. This isn’t a car for those hyper-focused on saving gas; it’s for the executive who values a quiet and rapid commute, or the enthusiast who prioritizes a sonorous V8 soundtrack over saving money at the pump. Fuel economy is secondary; the experience is important.

City and highway performance

The S550 Coupe’s 17 MPG in the city reflects the challenge of moving a nearly 4,600-pound car through stop-and-go traffic. The 4.7L twin-turbo V8 performs best when it has room to breathe, and short bursts of acceleration are rarely done efficiently. Highway driving, however, is where this car excels, and the 25 MPG EPA estimate is often achievable, aided by the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The S550 Coupe transforms long journeys into relaxing experiences, effortlessly gliding along at high speeds with minimal driver input.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S550 4matic Coupe. 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. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits and prevailing fuel prices. $2,900 provides a useful benchmark for understanding the cost of ownership. Potential buyers should consider it an inherent part of owning such a refined and powerful machine.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, your actual fuel economy may differ. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all negatively impact your MPG. Residents of hilly areas might also see lower numbers. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and take longer highway trips will likely get closer to the EPA estimates. Using premium fuel consistently, as recommended by Mercedes-Benz, is critical for optimal performance and fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The S550 Coupe’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect for its class. A comparably equipped 2017 BMW 650i xDrive Coupe with its 4.4L V8 offered a similar 17 city / 25 highway MPG. The Audi S7, with its smaller 4.0L V8, managed a slightly better 17 city / 27 highway MPG. Even the Porsche Panamera 4S, another performance-oriented luxury coupe, had similar figures. These differences are minimal in the context of the vehicle’s overall cost and are less likely to be a deciding factor for this buyer compared to aspects like design, technology, and brand prestige. You can find S550 MPG across all years on our website. Our all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data offers even more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The S550 Coupe features multiple drive modes, including an “Eco” mode. This mode adjusts throttle response, transmission shift points, and climate control settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. Using “Eco” mode, especially during city driving or in stop-and-go traffic, can noticeably improve your fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure; you can find it on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, particularly during temperature changes.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. The S550’s start/stop system does this automatically in certain situations, saving you fuel without sacrificing comfort.

Reduce your overall weight. Extra cargo in the trunk or rear seats adds to the vehicle’s overall mass, requiring more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any unnecessary items from your car to improve fuel efficiency, even if it’s slightly.

Smooth and consistent driving habits are key to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Gentle throttle inputs and gradual deceleration will minimize fuel consumption.