18 MPG combined is the price of admission to the world of the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic. This isn’t a transportation appliance for those who are faint of heart or light of wallet. It’s a handcrafted performance sedan draped in the finest luxury, built for those who demand both blistering acceleration and opulent comfort. The buyer isn’t cross-shopping Priuses; they’re comparing this to a Bentley Flying Spur or perhaps a highly optioned Porsche Panamera. Fuel efficiency is simply a tertiary consideration, a footnote in the otherwise impressive spec sheet.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway paint a clearer picture of how this S63 is likely to be used. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, and that 5.5-liter V8 will happily gulp fuel when launching from every red light. This car encourages spirited driving, and the instant torque available means you’ll be tapping into that potent power reserve often. The highway figure is more respectable, the 7-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds get the credit. However, even on the open road, resist the urge to pass every vehicle in sight, and that number will quickly plummet. This isn’t a car that encourages restraint, and therein lies the fuel economy paradox.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic will be $3,200. This figure is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes national average fuel prices. While your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits and the prices at your local gas station, $3,200 is a good benchmark for understanding the financial implications of owning a high-performance luxury sedan. For context, that’s more than some people spend on rent each month; it’s a significant ongoing expense that potential owners should factor into their budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison point, real-world fuel economy will likely be lower, particularly for enthusiastic drivers. The S63’s performance is addictive, and few owners will resist the urge to unleash its full potential regularly. Expect to see MPG figures closer to the city estimate, even with a mixed driving style. Aggressive acceleration, frequent gear changes, and idling in traffic will all contribute to lower fuel efficiency. If you consistently drive in a spirited manner, be prepared to visit the gas station often, and factor that into your ownership experience.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2016 AMG S63’s fuel economy is typical for its class, but that doesn’t make it frugal. A comparable 2016 BMW M6 Gran Coupe achieves a similar 17 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera Turbo S, while offering slightly better performance delivers 18 MPG combined as well. The Audi S8 Plus offered a similar range with 19 MPG combined. Those slight variations in MPG are unlikely to sway the decision of a buyer in this segment. They’re looking for a specific blend of performance, luxury, and prestige. For those interested in comparing all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, there are more efficient options like the C-Class or E-Class sedans, but these do not offer the same level of performance and exclusivity. People shopping for an S63 know going in that they won’t be getting Prius-like fuel economy; they’re paying for performance, and they’re willing to accept the consequences.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern, there are ways to minimize consumption without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Avoid aggressive acceleration, especially from a standstill. The S63 produces immense torque, and gentle application of the throttle will still result in brisk acceleration while using less gas.

Use the car’s driving modes carefully. The “Comfort” mode will optimize the engine and transmission for efficiency, although it will predictably dull the throttle response. When not actively seeking performance, opting for “Comfort” can make a noticeable difference.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which puts additional strain on the engine and negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels.

Minimize idling, especially with a large-displacement engine. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Extended idling burns fuel unnecessarily and contributes to lower overall fuel efficiency. Keep in mind to check AMG MPG across all years to see improvements across generations, too.