20 MPG combined won’t win any eco-awards, but for a mid-size luxury coupe with a twin-turbo V8 and all-wheel drive, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 4matic isn’t a gas guzzler. This car combines performance, luxury, and distinctive style, and its fuel economy, while not stellar, is a price many buyers pay for the driving experience and prestige the CLS550 offers.

City and highway performance

The 2017 CLS550 4matic officially gets 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The difference between these figures shows how driving style affects fuel consumption. Stop-and-go traffic and aggressive acceleration will quickly lower the city MPG, while consistent highway cruising can get you close to, or even above, the EPA’s estimate. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps optimize efficiency on the open road compared to older transmissions that were available in this class of vehicle.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS550 4matic. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Fuel costs will vary based on local fuel prices, driving habits, and the percentage of city versus highway driving. However, $2,900 provides a benchmark for understanding the cost of ownership for this vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a comparison tool, real-world MPG often differs. Weather conditions, tire pressure, and cargo weight can impact fuel efficiency. Owners who frequently use the CLS550’s performance capabilities should expect figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below. Conscientious drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic can likely achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. For all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, you can check our other pages.

How it compares

The CLS550’s fuel economy sits in a specific niche. A comparable BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe from the same model year typically gets around 19 MPG combined, putting it in the same ballpark. A less powerful Audi A7 with the supercharged V6 can yield combined MPG in the low 20s. The Porsche Panamera, depending on configuration, can be more efficient in hybrid form, or equivalent in V8 trim. The CLS550 buyer likely accepts that fuel economy is a secondary consideration compared to the car’s aesthetics and performance. If you want to investigate CLS550 MPG across all years, we offer additional specific data too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use premium fuel as recommended. The CLS550’s engine is designed to run on higher octane gasoline, and using lower grades can negatively impact both performance and fuel economy.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires create increased rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume more fuel, decreasing your MPG. Practice smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary energy expenditure.

Consider using the “Eco” driving mode, if equipped. This mode typically softens throttle response and optimizes transmission behavior for fuel efficiency, sacrificing some performance.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly, and excessive idling wastes fuel.