20 MPG combined. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S isn’t about sipping fuel. It’s about raw, visceral performance from a hand-built 4.0L V8. Economy is a distant consideration for the buyer drawn to this car’s snarling soundtrack and blistering acceleration. They’re after an intoxicating blend of luxury and unadulterated power, and the C63 S delivers that. This is a driver’s car first, a fuel-sipper a very, very distant last.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 AMG C63 S reveal the realities of its character. 18 MPG in the city reflects stop-and-go driving where the V8’s power is constantly being tapped, even if only momentarily. The responsive 7-speed automatic transmission tries to find the right gear, but its efforts do little to tame the engine’s inherent thirst when accelerating from every traffic light. On the open road, the C63 S fares somewhat better, achieving a rated 24 MPG on the highway. This figure is more achievable during steady-state cruising, where the engine isn’t constantly called upon to unleash its fury. Even at highway speeds, a heavy foot will quickly negate any fuel-saving potential.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 S at exactly $2,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline, which the C63 S requires. For owners who primarily drive in urban environments or those who frequently indulge in spirited driving, the actual annual fuel expenditure will likely exceed this figure. While the $2,900 figure is an estimate, it gives prospective buyers a tangible understanding of the financial commitment beyond the initial purchase price.

Real-world expectations

Expect fuel economy that hovers around, or even dips below, the EPA estimates in real-world driving scenarios. The C63 S is a performance machine, and its owners are likely to exploit its capabilities, leading to more frequent and harder acceleration. The car’s aggressive exhaust note and immediate throttle response are simply too tempting to ignore. Consequently, achieving the EPA’s 24 MPG highway figure requires conscious effort and restraint, something many C63 S drivers will struggle to practice. Short trips, cold starts, and enthusiastic use of the car’s performance features will all negatively impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

Compared to rivals in its class, the AMG C63 S’s fuel economy is typical for a high-performance sedan. For example, the 2016 BMW M3, with its turbocharged inline-six engine, achieves a slightly better 20 MPG combined and 17 city/26 highway. The Audi RS5, available with a naturally aspirated V8 in 2016, lands close to the C63 S, with estimates in the high teens for combined mileage. These comparisons illustrate a simple truth: high performance demands fuel consumption. Buyers cross-shopping these models likely prioritize performance and driving experience over ultimate fuel efficiency; otherwise, they would be looking at sedans outside of the performance category. For a broader view, you can check all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG C63 S isn’t designed for fuel efficiency, owners can take some measures to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these driving habits significantly reduce MPG. The sensitive throttle makes it easy to use more fuel than necessary, so practice gentle inputs whenever possible. Also, a C63 S can be very engaging to drive aggressively, so consider going for long drives in the country rather than doing stop and go city driving.

Ensure the car is properly maintained, including regular oil changes and tire inflation. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, and properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance; both contribute to improved fuel economy. Tire choice matters too. Switching to low rolling resistance tires for parts of the year could also provide marginal gains.

Use the car’s driving modes. The “Comfort” mode, if equipped, will soften throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, promoting fuel-efficient driving. However, avoid hypermiling tactics, as these can be dangerous and detract from the driving experience. The AMG C63 S comes equipped with a 7-speed automatic transmission that does a better job of managing fuel economy than a driver trying to force it, so stick to driving modes.

Limit idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate stopping for an extended period, it’s best to turn off the engine. This is often overlooked but can make a noticeable difference over time, especially during city driving.

Plan your trips to avoid peak traffic times. Stop-and-go traffic drastically reduces fuel efficiency. Opt for routes with fewer traffic lights and congestion, and try to travel during off-peak hours whenever possible. For a look at the AMG lineup, explore AMG MPG across all years.