24 MPG combined is what you can expect from the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG. It’s a compromise for a driving enthusiast who wants AMG performance but isn’t ready for the C63. This buyer wants all-weather capability from the C450’s standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive and the car’s technology. Fuel economy is a consideration, but not the main reason for buying.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the C450 AMG are 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the turbocharged V6 works harder. The highway number shows the benefits of the 7-speed automatic transmission that keeps the engine efficient for cruising. Use the C450’s passing power, and that 28 MPG will drop. The engine note and acceleration are tempting, and restraint takes effort.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz C450 AMG is $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city and 45% highway driving, and national average fuel prices. It’s a benchmark, but your spending depends on your driving and where you live. If you drive in congested cities, expect to exceed $2,400. If you drive mostly on the highway, you might spend less.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a baseline, the real-world fuel economy of the C450 AMG often varies. Aggressive driving and frequent use of Sport+ mode will hurt fuel consumption. Owners on forums suggest around 22 MPG combined is typical in mixed driving. Some get closer to the EPA estimate with careful driving, while others see closer to 19 MPG. The C450 AMG rewards a measured driving style, but resisting the urge to use its power is hard.

How it compares

The C450 AMG’s fuel economy is similar to its rivals. The BMW 340i xDrive, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves around 23 MPG combined. The Audi S4, another all-wheel-drive competitor, is also in the same range. The Lexus IS 350 AWD is less powerful, but offers similar fuel efficiency. But comparing the C450 to its older, less-powerful Mercedes siblings is less generous. Checking C450 MPG across all years and the Mercedes C300 reveals only a slight increase in consumption for the extra horsepower. The V8 in the C63 AMG is different: expect lower numbers in all situations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the C450 AMG’s driving mode selector. Comfort mode reduces throttle response and optimizes gear shifts for efficiency. It may not be exciting, but it can help fuel consumption, especially during commutes. Treat the Comfort setting as a compromise between fun and saving money.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressures and ensure they are at the levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Use the recommended tire pressure settings from Mercedes, not the maximum pressure on the tire.

Avoid unnecessary weight. Extra cargo in the trunk adds to the vehicle’s mass, impacting fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need regularly, such as sports equipment or tools. The lighter you travel, the lower your fuel bill will be.

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize braking and acceleration. Smooth driving is more efficient than accelerating and braking. Look ahead, maintain a safe following distance, and try to anticipate traffic lights and speed changes. This minimizes wasted energy.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a speed. Cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, avoiding acceleration that can waste fuel. While not ideal in stop-and-go traffic, it can improve fuel efficiency on long highway drives. This function, compared with the cost-savings of other Mercedes offerings, becomes more apparent when accessing all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.