18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, and it won’t attract buyers looking for less gas. The 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT S isn’t about sipping fuel; it’s about raw, visceral driving pleasure. This is a car for those who prioritize performance, sound, and the thrill of a twin-turbo V8 over maximizing every last drop of premium gasoline.

City and highway performance

The AMG GT S gets an EPA-estimated 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. While these numbers aren’t appalling for a high-performance sports car, they do reflect the engine’s potent nature. Stop-and-go traffic will predictably hurt fuel economy, because the 4.0L V8 is always eager to deliver its power. The highway figure is more respectable, but only if you’re careful with the throttle. The temptation to exploit the engine’s capabilities on open stretches of road is strong, and doing so will quickly diminish that 22 MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

Owners can expect an annual fuel bill of approximately $3,200, according to the EPA. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using then-current national average fuel prices and the vehicle’s combined MPG rating. For buyers of the AMG GT S, this cost is often considered a necessary expense. The thrill of driving a high-performance machine like this outweighs the financial burden of frequent trips to the gas station.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving habits. Frequent hard acceleration, spirited backroad driving, and extensive city commutes will likely result in figures below the official estimates. Conversely, conservative highway driving might yield slightly better results. Understanding that the 18 MPG combined rating is an ideal scenario is important for managing your fuel budget.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance sports cars of its era, the AMG GT S’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. The Porsche 911 Carrera S (991.2 generation) with the PDK transmission manages around 23 MPG combined, a noticeable improvement, but it arguably doesn’t deliver the same strong punch as the AMG GT S’s V8. A Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, with its supercharged V8, struggles to achieve even 18 MPG combined. Even within the all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data catalog, the AMG GT S sits near the bottom of the list, prioritizing power over efficiency. Comparing the AMG GT S to other AMG models reveals this design choice which can be seen through AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The AMG GT S is an inherently thirsty machine but some techniques can help improve fuel economy.

Gentle acceleration is critical. Avoid stomping on the accelerator pedal unless necessary. Gradual increases in speed will minimize fuel consumption and prevent unnecessary downshifts.

Use the car’s driving modes intelligently. The AMG GT S typically offers a “Comfort” or “Eco” mode that remaps the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency. While these modes may dampen the driving experience, they can make a difference in everyday driving.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or cabin adds weight, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any items that aren’t essential for your journey. Every little bit helps.