16 MPG combined. Let’s be frank: nobody buys a 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S65 expecting Prius-level fuel efficiency. This is a twelve-cylinder land yacht churning out 621 horsepower and enough torque to alter the Earth’s rotation. The fuel economy is simply what you pay to get into a very exclusive club, a club where effortless power and opulent luxury are important, and where trips to the gas station are a mere inconvenience, not a financial burden.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the AMG S65 are 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s great thirst during stop-and-go driving, also affected by the car’s weight. The comparatively “decent” highway figure comes from engaging the overdrive gears in the 7-speed automatic transmission, allowing the engine to relax and sip fuel…relatively speaking, of course. Don’t expect to achieve those numbers if you’re constantly unleashing the full potential of that V12. Consider the highway MPG a theoretical maximum, achievable only under very restrained driving conditions. See all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz AMG S65 at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of fuel used. While this is undoubtedly a significant expense, it’s a figure that the typical S65 owner likely considers negligible compared to the vehicle’s initial purchase price and other ownership costs. It’s a cost of doing business when your business is automotive excess.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the AMG S65 will almost certainly be lower for most drivers. The temptation to exploit the engine’s power is simply too strong to resist. Expect to see numbers closer to 10-12 MPG in mixed driving, especially if you frequently accelerate quickly or spend a significant amount of time in urban environments. Those who primarily use the S65 for long highway cruises at moderate speeds might achieve something closer to the EPA’s 22 MPG, but even then, resisting the urge to pass everything in sight will be a constant challenge. See AMG MPG across all years.

How it compares

Comparing the AMG S65’s fuel economy to other vehicles is somewhat absurd, given its unique combination of performance and luxury.

However, for the sake of context, consider these alternatives: The 2017 BMW M760i xDrive, with its 6.6L V12, achieves a slightly better 17 MPG combined. The Audi S8 Plus, with its 4.0L V8, manages 19 MPG combined. Even a more practical option like the Mercedes-Benz S550 4Matic, with its 4.7L V8, achieves 20 MPG combined. The S65 buyer, however, isn’t cross-shopping these cars based on fuel economy. They want the ultimate expression of Mercedes-Benz performance and luxury, and they’re willing to pay the price at the pump.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While extracting Prius-like mileage from the AMG S65 is impossible, there are still some techniques to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The V12 is immensely powerful, and gentle inputs will still deliver plenty of thrust without drastically impacting fuel economy.

Use the car’s driving modes. The “Comfort” mode will prioritize fuel efficiency by softening throttle response and shifting to higher gears earlier. While it won’t transform the S65 into an economy car, it can make a noticeable difference in everyday driving.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, consider turning off the engine.

Service the engine according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements will ensure the engine is running efficiently and prevent potential fuel economy issues.