16 MPG combined. The 2016 Chevrolet SS doesn’t win any fuel economy awards, but that’s the point. This is a rear-wheel-drive, four-door sedan with a Corvette-derived 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 415 horsepower. People buy an SS for its sleeper status—a comfortable, unassuming sedan that can outrun most vehicles on the road with a tap of the accelerator. Fuel economy is a necessary evil, the price of LS3 power.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Chevrolet SS gets 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The automatic transmission, while offering quick shifts, doesn’t necessarily help the SS’s MPG. Some owners feel manual models achieve slightly higher MPGs in real-world conditions. The 2016 SS is large and heavy. This, combined with its powerful V8 engine, means low-speed stop-and-go fuel efficiency suffers.

On the open road, the SS cruises more easily and can get close to its 20 MPG EPA rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet SS is $3,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. Plan to pay more if you drive aggressively or live where gas prices are high.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers are benchmarks, but real-world driving often differs. Most SS owners report getting closer to EPA estimates on the highway, especially during long trips. City driving is where the MPG can drop. If you spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic, expect 12-13 MPG. The SS rewards smooth driving, and aggressive acceleration and frequent braking hurt fuel economy. The reward is readily available power.

How it compares

The 2016 Chevrolet SS is typical for a naturally aspirated V8 performance sedan. A similar-year Dodge Charger R/T with the 5.7L V8 gets around 19 MPG combined, according to EPA estimates, making it slightly more fuel efficient. The 2016 BMW M5 gets around 17 MPG combined, also better than the SS, but costs significantly more. If you are cross-shopping a 2016 Chevrolet SS with other performance-oriented sedans, expect similar fuel costs, even though all Chevrolet fuel economy data may not suggest it.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The best way to improve fuel economy in your SS is to drive more smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Anticipate traffic and maintain a steady speed. The less you engage the 6.2L V8, the better your fuel economy.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the driver’s side door jamb.

Regular maintenance can help. A well-maintained engine will run more efficiently and burn less fuel, so be sure your engine is properly tuned and your air filter is clean. Don’t skip oil changes or other scheduled maintenance.

Minimize idling. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute or two. Excessive idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions.

Consider the fuel grade. While the 2016 Chevrolet SS owner’s manual may not require premium fuel, using it may improve performance and fuel economy. Experiment to see if you notice a difference, and weigh the benefits against the higher cost. Check SS MPG across all years to see if there’s any correlation.