16 MPG combined. Those three digits likely elicit a shrug, or perhaps even a chuckle, from the typical 2016 Mercedes-Benz S600 buyer. This isn’t a car purchased for its frugality; it’s a statement. A statement of success, of opulent comfort, and of unapologetic indulgence in a twelve-cylinder sledgehammer of an engine. Fuel economy is a distant consideration, if it’s considered at all.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this car gets 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. Keep in mind that those figures are the result of a very light foot. In actuality, battling stop-and-go traffic will likely yield numbers well below the city estimate. The S600 rewards smooth operation, but its vast reserves of power are always tempting. The highway figure, while achievable during steady-state cruising, will plummet if you frequently dip into the engine’s prodigious torque for overtaking maneuvers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz S600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with approximately 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price (which fluctuates considerably). This represents a sizable expense, but again, context is key. Someone spending well over $100,000 on a luxury sedan that offers the last word in automotive luxury and power is unlikely to balk at a few thousand dollars per year in fuel.

Real-world expectations

Owner forums reveal a wide range of reported fuel economy figures, but most S600 drivers readily admit they don’t optimize for efficiency. Aggressive acceleration is far too tempting. Expect numbers closer to 12 MPG in the city in normal use and perhaps closer to 19 MPG on the highway during extended high-speed drives. Ultimately, real-world fuel economy depends heavily on individual driving style. Regular maintenance, including properly inflated tires and quality fuel, could nudge the numbers upward slightly, but substantial improvements are unlikely.

How it compares

Consider the alternatives. A 2016 BMW 750i xDrive, with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 and all-wheel drive, manages 19 MPG combined. A similarly equipped Audi A8 achieves about 22 MPG. Even the significantly less powerful, but still luxurious, Mercedes-Benz S550 earns a combined rating of around 20 MPG. All of these vehicles occupy a similar segment, but none delivers the sheer, effortless power of the S600 and its V12 heart. The Bentley Flying Spur V8 achieves 17 MPG combined, so the S600 holds its own vs. the competition. For buyers prioritizing raw power and exclusivity, the S600’s low MPG is simply the price of entry, much like the cost considerations for a performance flagship from all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, especially when compared to other S600 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to unleash the V12’s full potential at every opportunity. Smooth, gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, and even more so in a car with this much power on tap. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking, allowing momentum to carry you whenever possible. Don’t be a rolling roadblock, but instead, strive for effortless driving, and your fuel expenditures will benefit.

Opt for “Comfort” mode when available, as it typically softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts. While “Sport” mode offers a more engaging driving experience, it also keeps the engine in a lower gear for longer, resulting in significantly increased fuel consumption. Don’t drive everywhere in “Sport.”

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. A few extra PSI can add up over time, saving a measurable amount of fuel.

Avoid short trips when possible. The engine consumes the most fuel when it’s cold, so combining several errands into one trip can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Allow the engine to warm up gradually before demanding maximum performance.

Consider the cargo and people you’re bringing along. Carrying unnecessary weight negatively impacts fuel economy. Remove any clutter from the trunk and backseat that is not essential for the journey. Carrying passengers around in the vehicle regularly when that isn’t needed also impacts fuel economy.