19 MPG combined might make you think twice if you’re also looking at hybrid crossovers, but it’s surprisingly reasonable for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE43 4MATIC. This isn’t just a typical family SUV; it’s a performance-focused luxury SUV, and the AMG badge sets high expectations for performance. The GLE43 appeals to those who want a luxurious, sporty driving experience and aren’t extremely concerned about maximizing fuel mileage. They value the feeling of readily available power and the AMG brand’s reputation more than ultimate fuel efficiency.

city and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLE43 4MATIC gets 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the reality of urban driving, where the turbocharged 3.0L V6 engine manages its weight and power. The highway number is more optimistic, based on consistent speeds where the 9-speed automatic transmission settles into its highest gears. However, expect the highway MPG to decrease if you frequently accelerate aggressively. The 23 MPG highway is a best-case scenario under ideal conditions.

annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE43 4MATIC at $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average premium gasoline prices at the time of the estimate. Real-world fuel costs will vary with driving habits, local fuel prices, and the mix of city and highway driving. This figure is a benchmark for comparison against other vehicles, but your personal expenses could be higher or lower.

real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a useful starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect to see some variation from the official numbers, particularly if you drive in heavy traffic or frequently tap into the GLE43’s performance. Hard acceleration, spirited driving, and altitude can all affect fuel consumption. Drivers with a smooth and steady style will likely see numbers closer to the EPA estimates compared to those who regularly use the engine’s full power potential. Also, remember the cost of maintaining a performance vehicle: premium fuel is required, and AMG parts are often more expensive for maintenance and repairs than standard Mercedes-Benz models.

how it compares

The 2018 AMG GLE43’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors among performance SUVs. For example, the 2018 BMW X5 xDrive50i, with its V8, gets around 17 MPG city and 22 MPG highway. The Porsche Cayenne S delivers slightly better numbers, around 19 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, but it often has a higher price. Even some more fuel-efficient competitors, like the Acura MDX SH-AWD, get around 19 MPG/27 MPG, but they lack the AMG tuned V6 of the GLE43, and buyers in this class often trade a few MPG for performance and prestige. AMG MPG across all years is consistent, so buyers looking at older models may find similar numbers.

tips to maximize efficiency

The AMG GLE43 isn’t designed for maximizing MPG, but you can still improve its fuel efficiency by avoiding fast acceleration and hard braking because these habits really increase fuel consumption. Select the “Comfort” or “Eco” driving mode, which adjusts the engine and transmission for better efficiency.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s specifications; the sticker is often found inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the load, making the engine work harder and burning more fuel. Remove any non-essential items.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Idling burns fuel without covering distance. Use navigation apps to find routes that minimize congestion, even if they are a little longer.

Consider checking all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data for other models in the brand’s lineup; there may be a better fit for your lifestyle, and regular engine maintenance is critical for its upkeep.