18 MPG combined. Let’s be brutally honest: nobody buys a 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S wagon for its fuel economy. This is a fire-breathing, meticulously engineered performance machine disguised as a practical family hauler, bought by affluent parents who need to get their kids to soccer practice… yesterday. Fuel consumption takes a backseat to unrelenting power and the sheer joy of driving a vehicle that can embarrass most sports cars on a twisty road.

City and highway performance

The EPA pegs the E63 S wagon at 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers, while seemingly low, are fairly representative of what you can expect in real-world driving. The city figure will be lower if you frequently exploit the AMG’s strong torque at every stoplight. The highway number is achievable if you resist the urge to blast past slower traffic with a downshift and a roar. In reality, a heavy right foot will significantly impact both figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 AMG E63 S wagon is $3,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important to recognize that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how much you drive, where you drive, and how aggressively you drive. Given the E63 S wagon’s performance potential, expect that $3,200 to be a baseline figure, and realistically, be prepared to spend more.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized measure, real-world fuel economy for the E63 S wagon is heavily dependent on driving style. Owners who frequently engage the car’s performance capabilities will likely see figures below the EPA estimates. Conversely, those who mostly cruise on the highway and avoid aggressive acceleration might achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the 22 MPG rating. The key takeaway is that the E63 S wagon’s fuel economy is directly proportional to how much you use its 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance wagons, the E63 S’s fuel economy is in line with expectations. For example, the Audi RS6 Avant, its closest competitor, offers similar performance and also hovers in the high teens for combined MPG. Performance SUVs, such as the BMW X5 M (around 16 MPG combined) offer similar practicality but typically come with a higher fuel penalty due to their increased weight and less aerodynamic shape. For buyers considering value, it’s important to also explore all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data and even AMG MPG across all years to understand the trade-offs between performance and efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing every last mile out of a gallon might not be the primary concern for E63 S wagon owners, there are steps you can take to improve fuel economy. Avoid unnecessary idling. The 4.0L V8 consumes a significant amount of fuel at idle, so turning off the engine during extended stops can make a difference.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your E63 S wagon.

Use a lighter foot. Smooth and consistent acceleration and braking will conserve fuel compared to abrupt starts and stops. The E63 S wagon’s traction control system can help you maintain grip and control, even with a less aggressive driving style.

Take advantage of drive modes. The E63 S wagon offers various drive modes that can impact fuel economy. Selecting a more conservative mode like “Comfort” or “Eco” will optimize engine and transmission settings for efficiency, although it does somewhat diminish the car’s performance potential.

Service the vehicle on time. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures that the engine is running optimally and efficiently. A well-maintained engine will deliver better fuel economy than one that is neglected.