20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but let’s be honest: anyone cross-shopping a 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 isn’t prioritizing saving gas. This is a snarling, hand-built V8-powered sports sedan designed to deliver thrills, not hypermiling. Instead, consider that 20 MPG a consequence, an accepted trade-off for the performance and prestige that come with the AMG badge. The target demographic here is not the fuel-conscious commuter, but the enthusiast willing to pay for a potent blend of luxury and raw power.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway show where the AMG C63 performs best, and where it doesn’t. City driving, with its stop-and-go nature, is where the big 4.0L V8 is at its least efficient. Expect plenty of visits to the gas station if your daily commute is primarily confined to urban environments. However, on the open road, at consistent speeds, the C63 can stretch a gallon a bit further, showcasing its potential for marginally better fuel economy. Even on the highway, the temptation to tap into the immense power reserves will quickly reduce fuel economy. Those numbers are a great comparison to all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Annual fuel cost

Prepare for an estimated annual fuel cost of around $2,900, according to the EPA. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, this is just an estimate, and your actual costs will vary depending on several factors, including your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is highly recommended for optimal performance and longevity), and fluctuating gasoline prices in your area. Consider the $2,900 a baseline a reminder of the ongoing expense associated with owning and operating a high-performance machine. It is definitely worth considering when browsing AMG MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a useful starting point, but real-world driving often reveals a different story. Aggressive driving in the AMG C63 will easily drop you below the EPA’s 20 MPG combined figure. Unleashing the full potential of the 4.0L V8 is addictive, and restraint is a difficult virtue to practice. However, if you adopt a gentler driving style, focusing on smooth acceleration and maintaining consistent speeds, you might be able to approach the EPA numbers, or even slightly exceed them on long highway trips. The C63 begs to be driven hard, and resisting that urge is a challenge for most owners. Expect to see numbers in the high teens in mixed driving. Owners should factor this into their ownership costs and fuel budgets.

How it compares

The AMG C63 is not alone in the realm of high-performance sports sedans, and its fuel economy figures need to be considered in context of its competition. The BMW M3, for instance, with its inline-six engine, achieves a slightly better 20 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, making it a marginally more efficient choice. The Audi RS5 Sportback, another potent contender, lands at a combined 19 MPG. These differences might seem small, but for those who log significant miles, the cumulative effect can be substantial. The decision between these vehicles comes down to more than just fuel economy. Handling characteristics, styling, and brand preference all play a significant role. For buyers who do plan on driving their C63 on longer trips, the competitor comparison may become more important.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG C63 isn’t designed for saving fuel, there are steps you can take to optimize its fuel consumption without sacrificing too much of the driving experience. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The quicker you get up to speed, the more fuel you’ll consume, and abrupt braking wastes the kinetic energy you’ve already paid for. Maintaining a smooth, consistent pace will go a long way toward improving your MPG.

Use the car’s Eco or Comfort driving modes when possible. These modes typically adjust throttle response, transmission mapping, and other parameters to prioritize fuel efficiency. The C63’s performance is still accessible in these modes, but the car becomes less eager to unleash its full power.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels indicated on the doorjamb sticker.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo in the trunk or back seat adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, which in turn increases fuel consumption. Remove any items that you don’t need on a regular basis.

Service your car regularly. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine will burn fuel more effectively.