18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, and it certainly won’t impress your Prius-driving neighbor. But the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic isn’t about winning awards for fuel efficiency. It’s about effortless power, opulent luxury, and a driving experience that borders on the sublime, and for the clientele who purchase this car, fuel costs are a distant consideration behind the thrill of the twin-turbocharged V8.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG S63 at 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The large difference between those numbers tells a story. In urban environments, stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to unleash the 5.5-liter V8’s fury at every green light will punish your fuel economy ruthlessly. However, out on the open road, cruising at a steady speed, the S63 settles down, its engine management system optimizing for efficiency where possible, and delivering comparatively reasonable mileage. The seven-speed automatic transmission also plays a role here, offering smooth shifts and keeping the engine in its sweet spot.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic is $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. It’s a substantial sum, and a clear indicator that this car is not for the budget-conscious. However, those who can afford the six-figure price tag of the S63 are likely less concerned with the cost of premium gasoline and more concerned with the performance it enables.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and even the weather. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you frequently indulge in spirited driving or spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic. Conversely, those who primarily use the S63 for long highway journeys and prioritize fuel efficiency may achieve figures closer to or even slightly above the 23 MPG highway rating. Realistically, most owners aren’t buying this car to hypermile; they are buying it for the experience. You can see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to directly compare fuel sippers and gas guzzlers.

How it compares

Considering the performance on offer, the AMG S63’s fuel economy is arguably justifiable, but it’s worth considering how it stacks up against its competitors. The BMW M760i xDrive, with its V12 engine, achieves a slightly lower 16 MPG combined. The Porsche Panamera Turbo, another performance-oriented luxury sedan, manages around 19 MPG combined, giving it a slight edge. Even the less performance-focused Mercedes-Benz S560 manages a better 22 MPG combined, thanks to its smaller engine and different tuning. These differences, though seemingly small on paper, can add up over time and are something potential buyers should consider, even if fuel costs aren’t their primary concern. To look at AMG MPG across all years can provide more context for this specific performance division.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG S63 isn’t designed for maximum fuel efficiency, there are steps you can take to improve your mileage. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The S63’s massive power output is tempting to use, but gentle and gradual acceleration will conserve fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, helping to optimize fuel consumption during long drives. The S63’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe following distance.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels specified on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight in your car puts additional strain on the engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk and cabin to lighten the load.