20 MPG combined doesn’t sound like much, but it’s the price for the strong performance delivered by the 2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S. This isn’t a car bought by penny-pinchers. It’s a thunderous four-door coupe (or sedan, or wagon) designed for those who prioritize visceral thrills above all else, and they are happy to pay for the privilege of a hand-built, snarling V8.

City and highway performance

The 2015 AMG C63 S, equipped with its 4.0L 8-cylinder engine, achieves 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the nature of the beast. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to exploit the engine’s instant power take their toll. On the open road, with a steadier throttle, the C63 S can stretch its fuel a little further, but even then, the urge to downshift and unleash the fury is ever-present. The 7-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, is geared for performance rather than economy, further influencing these numbers. This car dares you to drive it efficiently, and few owners will accept that challenge for long.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using fuel prices prevalent at the time of testing. Naturally, this number will fluctuate with changes in gasoline prices; however, it provides a benchmark for prospective buyers. If you’re concerned about a $2,900 fuel bill, this probably isn’t the car for you. The C63 S driver likely budgets for premium fuel and considers it part of the cost of owning a high-performance machine.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a guideline, real-world figures can vary significantly. A driver who frequently engages in spirited driving, takes short trips in the city, or lives in an area with heavy traffic can expect to see fuel economy numbers below the EPA estimates. Conversely, someone who primarily drives on the highway at moderate speeds may be able to match or even slightly exceed the 24 MPG highway rating. The key takeaway is that the C63 S rewards restraint at the cost of its core mission, and the engine’s responsiveness can be addictive, so budget accordingly.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2015 AMG C63 S’s fuel economy is what you’d expect. The BMW M3 of the same year, for instance, delivers a similar 17 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Audi RS5, with its naturally aspirated V8, performs around 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway. These cars, like the C63 S, prioritize performance over efficiency. The Cadillac ATS-V, while boasting similar power figures, manages around 17 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, demonstrating that even with modern engineering, high-performance engines demand their pound of fuel. These differences are negligible to the buyer in this segment; people seeking better economy can review all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data for their model and year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While maximizing fuel efficiency might not be a primary concern for the C63 S owner, there are still a few ways to optimize fuel consumption without completely sacrificing driving pleasure. Avoid aggressive acceleration and maintain a smooth, consistent speed whenever possible. The AMG’s sensitive throttle responds dramatically to inputs, so a gentle foot can make a noticeable difference, especially in city driving.

Take advantage of the transmission’s Eco mode if you find yourself in bumper-to-bumper traffic. This mode will shift gears earlier and dull the throttle response, helping to conserve fuel. It won’t transform the C63 S into a Prius, but it provides a welcome respite from the engine’s raw power in mundane driving situations.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Doing this small preventative task ensures safe driving practices and better efficiency.

Consider limiting short trips. Cold starts are particularly fuel-inefficient, as the engine needs to run rich to warm up to operating temperature. Combining several errands into a single trip reduces the number of cold starts and improves overall fuel economy. If you’re curious across model years, research the AMG MPG across all years.