21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe, it’s part of the price. This isn’t a car bought by penny-pinchers looking for maximum fuel efficiency. Instead, it’s a car for those who prioritize effortless power, stylish design, and a luxurious driving experience above all else. The E550 Coupe buyer wants the twin-turbo V8 rumble and the confident surge of acceleration, and they’re willing to accept mid-pack fuel consumption as a tradeoff.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates reflect the E550 Coupe’s dual nature. Around town, the 4.7L V8 manages 18 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic, combined with the engine’s displacement and the car’s weight, takes its toll. However, out on the open road, the E550 displays surprising efficiency for its class, achieving 26 MPG. This suggests that the engine is relatively unstressed during highway cruising, and the 7-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel consumption at higher speeds. The highway number is respectable, allowing for comfortable and relatively economical long-distance journeys, assuming you restrain yourself from constant bursts of acceleration.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year at current national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. The E550 requires premium fuel, which typically commands a higher price at the pump, further contributing to the overall running costs. Someone who drives mostly in the city, and has a “heavy” foot, will almost certainly exceed this estimate. Someone who drives mainly highway miles and focuses on maximizing economy could potentially do better, though the car’s character encourages spirited driving.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Factors like aggressive driving, frequent short trips (where the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature), and even tire pressure can impact fuel efficiency. Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s 26 MPG highway figure if you frequently use the car’s power. The E550 is designed to provide a thrilling driving experience, and the temptation to exploit its performance capabilities can be difficult to resist, inevitably leading to lower fuel economy. Owners of the E550 Coupe should view the EPA estimates as a best-case scenario, with the understanding that real-world figures will likely be somewhat lower, especially in city driving.

How it compares

The 2015 E550 Coupe wasn’t exactly swimming in direct competitors back in its day, and those close competitors had their own tradeoffs. The BMW 650i Coupe, for example, offered similar performance and luxury but generally delivered slightly worse fuel economy, hovering around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Audi S5 Coupe, while sportier in character, packed a supercharged V6 and achieved a more respectable 18 MPG city and 28 MPG highway, although it lacked the E550’s raw power. The choice often came down to priorities: ultimate power (E550), a balance of sport and efficiency (S5), or overall driving dynamics (650i). See E550 MPG across all years for more detailed year-by-year comparisons. These are the kinds of minor differences that buyers consider before buying. They want to know they’re getting the best option for their specific tastes.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The E550 Coupe’s twin-turbo V8 responds well to smooth, deliberate acceleration. Avoid jerky starts and hard braking, as these actions waste fuel and reduce efficiency. Gentle acceleration allows the turbochargers to spool up more gradually, minimizing fuel consumption without sacrificing performance. Let the engine do the work without stomping the accelerator pedal.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your E550 Coupe’s tires are properly inflated, as under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, decreasing fuel efficiency. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A clean engine runs more efficiently.

Take advantage of the E550’s cruise control system on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel economy. This is especially effective on long, flat stretches of road.

Minimize idling, especially during warm-up. Modern engines don’t require extended idling to warm up. Simply start the engine and begin driving gently. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions.

Plan your routes carefully to avoid congested areas and stop-and-go traffic. Traffic congestion significantly reduces fuel economy. Consider using navigation apps to find alternative routes that minimize traffic delays. For information on a broader selection of this brand’s models, see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.