The 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK350, with its 24 MPG combined rating, understands its mission perfectly: deliver open-air thrills with a touch of understated luxury, not set any fuel efficiency records. This isn’t a car for the hyper-miler. It’s for the enthusiast who appreciates a smooth-revving V6, a responsive chassis, and wind-in-your-hair motoring, and who accepts a moderate fuel bill as the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The SLK350’s split personality is reflected in its EPA fuel economy ratings. You can expect 21 MPG in the city, a figure typical for a naturally aspirated V6 of this displacement. The 7-speed automatic transmission works smoothly to keep the engine in its sweet spot, but stop-and-go traffic inevitably takes its toll. Out on the open road, the SLK350 fares better, achieving 28 MPG on the highway. Here, the transmission’s taller gears allow the engine to cruise effortlessly, minimizing fuel consumption. This makes it perfectly suited for weekend getaways, where winding roads and scenic vistas take precedence over squeezing out every last mile per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Mercedes-Benz SLK350 will be $2,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes current national average fuel prices. This number provides a useful benchmark for comparing the SLK350’s running costs to other vehicles. However, your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. SLK350 owners who prioritize spirited driving may see numbers slightly lower than the official ratings. Those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and spend more time on the highway could achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Driving conditions such as hills or inclement weather will also play a role. The important thing to remember is to drive according to the conditions, and keep the driving style smooth. The SLK350 rewards a smooth, consistent driving style, and driving smoothly not only adds to the luxury driving experience, but also helps fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The SLK350 occupies a unique niche in the roadster market, blending performance and luxury in a relatively compact package. To put its fuel economy in perspective, consider some of its rivals. The BMW Z4 sDrive35i, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves around 20 MPG combined. The Porsche Boxster, known for its exceptional handling and mid-engine layout, manages around 22 MPG combined with its base engine. The Audi TTS with its smaller turbocharged four-cylinder, is closer in fuel economy, reaching around 25 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that the SLK350’s fuel economy is in line with other performance-oriented roadsters. The choice between these models ultimately comes down to personal preference, with each offering a distinct driving experience and styling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The SLK350’s engine responds very well to smooth inputs. Gentle acceleration and avoiding harsh braking will drastically improve MPG. Use the car’s cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary throttle adjustments.

Proper tire inflation plays an important role in fuel efficiency. Regularly check your tire pressures and inflate them to the recommended levels. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can noticeably decrease your MPG.

The SLK350’s 7-speed automatic transmission will automatically select the most efficient gear depending on the driving conditions. Do not manually select gears unless completely necessary, as the system is designed to maximize fuel economy automatically.

Remove any unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo increases fuel consumption. If you don’t need it, leave it at home.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements can all contribute to improved fuel economy. For further information on all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, click here. You can also find information about SLK350 MPG across all years.