21 MPG combined isn’t going to break any records, but it’s perfectly acceptable for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe. This car prioritizes effortless power, luxurious features, and distinctive styling over hypermiling. The buyer interested in an E550 Coupe wants a smooth, potent engine and a comfortable ride over saving money at the gas pump. They want a refined grand touring experience, and they’re willing to pay for it, both in terms of the vehicle’s price and its fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The E550 Coupe’s EPA estimates are 18 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality that the 4.7L V8 works harder in stop-and-go traffic, which reduces some of the efficiency possible with the seven-speed automatic transmission. On the open road, however, the E550’s engine cruises easily, making the 26 MPG highway number a reasonable expectation. That highway figure is important for owners who use this coupe for longer journeys, where comfort and effortless passing power are critical.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe is $2,750. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel prices. This expense is a significant consideration, but E550 Coupe buyers probably already factored it into their ownership costs. They understand they’re paying a premium for performance and luxury, and willingly accept the fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a useful benchmark, but real-world MPG can vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and prolonged idling can all significantly reduce fuel economy. Smooth acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper vehicle maintenance can help drivers achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates, and possibly exceed them. Understanding driving habits can help owners estimate their individualized fuel costs.

How it compares

The 2016 E550 Coupe’s fuel economy is similar to some of its direct competitors, but slightly behind others. A 2016 BMW 650i Coupe, with its 4.4L V8, achieves similar numbers, around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. However, a 2016 Audi S5 Coupe, equipped with a supercharged V6, gets better gas mileage at 18 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. The slightly better MPG, but less powerful Audi might be the choice for someone who wants slightly less power and spends less money at the pump. This comparison highlights the trade-offs in this class of vehicle. Buyers must decide whether they prioritize outright performance, styling, or fuel efficiency. See E550 MPG across all years for a view of the model’s fuel economy history. Owners concerned about efficiency might also want to review all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to explore alternative models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Optimize tire pressure for better fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended pressure, and ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces MPG, and causes premature tire wear.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a steady speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can significantly improve fuel economy. The E550 Coupe’s smooth engine and well-damped ride make it perfect for long-distance cruising, and cruise control helps with this.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The E550’s powerful V8 is tempting, but driving smoothly and anticipating traffic flow will reduce fuel consumption. Gentle acceleration and careful planning can make a difference in MPG.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and a properly tuned engine contribute to optimal fuel efficiency. Neglecting maintenance can lead to decreased performance and reduced MPG.

Consider using premium fuel as recommended by Mercedes-Benz. While not always required, using the recommended fuel grade can ensure optimal engine performance and potentially improve fuel economy. Consult the owner’s manual for specific fuel recommendations.