Owning a 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible means accepting 20 MPG combined. However, fuel economy isn’t usually the main concern for buyers in this category. They want open-air excitement, refined luxury, and the easy power of a twin-turbocharged V8. The MPG is part of the cost for that lifestyle.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how much gas the engine uses in stop-and-go driving, constantly tapping into the V8’s immediate power, in short bursts. The highway number is better, showing the engine’s ability to cruise comfortably at higher speeds. The seven-speed automatic transmission tries to optimize fuel economy, and focuses on smooth and responsive gear changes. When you floor it to merge onto the highway, fuel efficiency is forgotten for instant fun.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550 Convertible at $2,900. This is calculated using 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the fuel you use, and local prices. Driving harder will increase that number considerably.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers are a starting point, and real-world fuel economy will change. Drivers who often enjoy the E550’s performance in the city will probably find that 17 MPG city is optimistic. However, those who mainly use the car for relaxed highway driving might get close to, or even slightly better than, the 25 MPG highway rating. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressures can all change your MPG, and driving hard will always cost more. Explore E550 MPG across all years to see what other owners have experienced.

How it compares

The E550’s fuel economy is in the middle for sporty luxury convertibles with strong engines. A BMW 650i Convertible from the same year, with its 4.4L V8, is rated at a similar 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. An Audi S5 convertible, with its supercharged V6, gets slightly better gas mileage, about 21 MPG combined, but doesn’t have the V8 rumble and power. Even all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data will tell you the E550 values driving excitement more than efficiency. This comparison is important because the E550 buyer is choosing between these kinds of vehicles, considering the trade-offs between performance, luxury, and costs, and finding the best balance for them.

Tips to maximize efficiency

If appropriate, use the E550’s “Eco” driving mode. It reduces throttle response a little, and optimizes the transmission’s shift points and engine management for better fuel economy, especially during normal city driving. Switching to “Sport” or “Manual” mode will cancel any fuel savings.

Make sure your tires are inflated correctly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tires regularly to maintain the recommended pressure, shown on the doorjamb sticker.

Avoid idling. Modern engines warm up quickly while driving, so idling for a long time wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine, where it’s safe and legal.

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking can maximize fuel economy. Avoid aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration and hard braking, since these actions consume much more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace when you can.

Consider using top-tier gasoline. The E550 doesn’t require premium fuel, but high-quality gasoline with detergents can help keep the fuel injectors clean and optimize engine performance, potentially improving fuel economy over time.