20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but that’s what you get with the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350. This V6-powered luxury SUV is for a specific buyer: someone who values space, comfort, and the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz badge more than saving gas. Fuel efficiency isn’t the main concern, but it’s still crucial to understand what to expect.

City and highway performance

The ML350’s EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the inherent inefficiencies of stop-and-go driving, made worse by the ML350’s weight of over 4,500 pounds. The 3.5L V6 engine, while smooth and responsive, needs to work harder to get the vehicle moving frequently. On the highway, the 7-speed automatic transmission helps the ML350 settle into a more relaxed cruising speed. This results in the marginally better 23 MPG figure. However, even on the open road, aerodynamic drag and overall weight limit its fuel-sipping potential.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Mercedes-Benz ML350 at $2,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. This $2,900 figure is a benchmark. Individual expenses will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel costs. It’s still vital to consider this number when budgeting for the ML350’s overall ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standard measure, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact the ML350’s MPG. On the other hand, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds may yield slightly better results than the EPA’s 23 MPG.

Expecting significantly better fuel economy than the official ratings is unrealistic. The ML350 isn’t designed for hypermiling; it’s designed for comfortable, confident transportation, and its fuel consumption reflects that priority.

How it compares

The ML350’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. A 2015 BMW X5 xDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-six, gets a similar 21 MPG combined. The Acura MDX, known for its practicality, achieves a slightly better 20 MPG combined with front-wheel drive and 19 MPG combined with all-wheel drive. The Infiniti QX60, another popular three-row option, gets 21 MPG combined, mirroring the X5. These comparisons show that most luxury SUVs in this class value performance and comfort more than the best possible fuel efficiency. Exploring all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data reveals that more recent models using newer engine technologies can achieve better figures, but the 2015 ML350 sits within an accepted range for its age and class. If fuel economy is a top priority, consider alternatives or research ML350 MPG across all years to see if newer versions offer improvements.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The ML350’s V6 engine responds well to smooth, gradual inputs. Rapid acceleration and slamming on the brakes waste fuel and put unnecessary stress on the powertrain.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Removing any unnecessary items from the cargo area can improve fuel economy, even if only slightly. Every extra pound requires the engine to expend more energy.

Use cruise control on the highway where appropriate. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption. Cruise control minimizes fluctuations in speed, leading to more efficient operation, especially on relatively flat stretches of road.

Service the vehicle according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine is a more fuel-efficient engine.