18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards and it certainly isn’t why someone buys a 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Coupe. This car exists to deliver a visceral, exhilarating driving experience, and the hand-built 4.0L twin-turbo V8 under its long hood is central to that mission. Buyers know exactly what they’re getting: stunning looks, incredible performance, and fuel consumption that reflects both.

City and highway performance

The AMG GT Coupe’s fuel economy breaks down to 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These numbers aren’t surprising given the engine’s output and the car’s focus on performance over efficiency. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic and the engine’s tendency to deliver power readily, tempting drivers to tap into the available horsepower. The highway number is more respectable, but aggressive driving will quickly reduce it. The seven-speed automatic transmission (AM7) shifts smoothly and efficiently, but it’s ultimately tasked with managing a high-performance engine in a relatively heavy car. Anyone expecting hybrid-like efficiency in this segment is shopping in the wrong place; the AMG GT Coupe prioritizes driving dynamics above all else. If you are interested in all Mercedes-Benz fuel economy data, you can browse our listing.

Annual fuel cost

Based on the EPA’s estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT Coupe is approximately $3,200. This figure is calculated assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. Drivers who frequently engage in spirited driving or spend more time in heavy traffic will likely exceed this estimate. This cost is a substantial part of owning a high-performance vehicle such as the AMG GT, and prospective buyers understand and accept this as part of the ownership experience. If you primarily drive short distances or work from home, you might clock in significantly less and save money.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the AMG GT Coupe will vary significantly depending on driving style and conditions. Drivers who regularly exploit the engine’s performance will likely see numbers below the EPA estimates, especially in the city. Conversely, those who primarily use the car for long highway cruises and drive conservatively may achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s highway rating.

It’s important to remember that the AMG GT Coupe is designed for performance, not fuel efficiency, and driving it accordingly will impact fuel consumption. Consider these figures a realistic expectation, but don’t be surprised if your own experience differs based on how and where you drive.

How it compares

Compared to competitors, the AMG GT Coupe’s fuel economy is par for the course in the high-performance sports car segment. The Porsche 911 Carrera S, for example, achieves around 21 MPG combined with its turbocharged flat-six engine. A Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport, a more affordable but still potent rival, manages around 19 MPG combined. The Jaguar F-Type R, with its supercharged V8, posts similar figures to the AMG GT Coupe.

Buyers in this segment are generally more concerned with performance and driving experience than minor differences in fuel economy. The slight variations in MPG figures between these models are unlikely to be a deciding factor when purchasing such a car; factors like brand preference, styling, and handling characteristics typically weigh more heavily. For data on AMG MPG across all years, use our tool to research other model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG GT isn’t designed for maximum fuel economy, there are still ways to improve your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as the engine consumes more fuel when pushed hard. Gentle, consistent throttle inputs will help to optimize fuel consumption.

Use the car’s driving mode selector to your advantage. Selecting a more conservative mode, such as “Comfort,” can reduce engine responsiveness and shift points, leading to improved fuel economy. However, be aware that the system will immediately return to performance settings under heavy throttle input.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker in the driver’s side door jamb.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the car, wasting fuel and increasing emissions. The AMG GT lacks a modern auto start-stop function, so this falls to the driver.

Proper maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections ensure the engine is running efficiently. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule can help to improve fuel economy and prolong the life of the engine.