17 MPG combined. Those are the numbers you’re facing with the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Coupe. It’s a figure that might give pause to someone cross-shopping family crossovers, but for the intended audience of this hand-built, snarling performance machine, it’s less a deterrent, more a badge of honor. This isn’t about minimizing trips to the pump; it’s about maximizing adrenaline on every drive.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG GT C Coupe will achieve 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. That spread reflects the reality of ownership. Stop-and-go traffic in urban environments will punish the fuel tank, forcing the twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 to constantly spool up and down, drawing heavily from its reserves. Open stretches of highway, however, allow the engine to settle into a more efficient rhythm –relatively speaking. The temptation to exploit the engine’s impressive power will always be present. Drivers expecting to routinely hit that 20 MPG highway figure should possess a higher-than-average level of self-control.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT C Coupe is $3,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with the assumption that 45% of those miles are driven in the city and 55% on the highway, and calculated using national average fuel prices when the vehicle was originally rated. For owners living in areas with higher fuel costs or who drive significantly more or primarily in city environments, that number could increase substantially.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy in the AMG GT C Coupe is highly dependent on driving style. Forget the EPA estimates. Treat the throttle with respect, and you might see numbers close to the EPA’s. But succumb to the car’s intoxicating power, the deep rumble of the exhaust, the explosive acceleration available at a moment’s notice, and fuel consumption will plummet.

The AMG GT C is often bought by seasoned performance enthusiasts who enjoy spirited driving and track days are not concerned too much about fuel costs. Those who buy this car expect to feed the beast regularly, making frequent stops at premium fuel providers, and consider it part of the ownership experience.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance coupes, the fuel economy of the AMG GT C Coupe is pretty typical. A Porsche 911 Carrera S, offers slightly better efficiency, netting around 20 MPG combined. The Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, with its supercharged V8, is roughly equivalent with the AMG GT C at around 18 MPG combined. The BMW M8 Coupe will also achieve closer to 18 MPG combined, making these vehicles quite similar in fuel economy. This is because these cars are built for performance, and fuel efficiency tends to be secondary.

For a prospective buyer of an AMG GT C Coupe, this means more time can be spent weighing the performance and styling differences rather than strictly fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the “Comfort” driving mode during routine commutes. While it won’t transform the AMG GT C into a Prius, the reduced throttle response and earlier gear shifts will noticeably reduce fuel consumption compared to the more aggressive “Sport” or “Sport+” modes. The lower modes do affect the dynamic nature of the vehicle in turning and acceleration.

Avoid short trips with a cold engine. The AMG GT C, like most high-performance vehicles, is less efficient when the engine is cold. Combining several errands into a single longer trip allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature, improving fuel economy and preventing unnecessary wear.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s side door placard or in the owner’s manual). This also helps with safety ratings and stability for such a powerful car.

Anticipate traffic flow and practice smooth acceleration and braking. Avoid abrupt starts and stops, which waste fuel. By carefully planning your driving and maintaining a consistent speed, you can minimize fuel consumption and allow the automatic transmission to operate more smoothly.

Consider monitoring fuel economy via the trip computer. While not a primary focus for most AMG GT C drivers, tracking your MPG over time can provide valuable insights into your driving habits and identify areas where you can improve efficiency. You can also find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our website.