18 MPG combined. Fuel economy is likely the last thing on the mind of anyone seriously considering the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4Matic Convertible. This isn’t a car bought for its frugality. It’s purchased for its ferocious power, opulent luxury, and the sensory experience of top-down motoring with an AMG-tuned V8 soundtrack. The S63 Convertible buyer prioritizes exhilarating performance and exclusivity above all else, accepting the associated thirst for premium unleaded as simply the cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the S63’s fuel economy at 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These numbers, while seemingly low in today’s world of hybrid and electric vehicles, are what you can expect from a high-performance, hand-built V8 engine propelling a substantial luxury convertible. The urban figure reflects the stop-and-go driving conditions where the engine is working harder to overcome the car’s weight, while the highway number suggests that even with all that power on tap, the S63 can achieve reasonable efficiency when cruising at a constant speed. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal range, balancing performance and fuel consumption as best it can.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4Matic Convertible at $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using the EPA’s projected national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Consider this a baseline; aggressive driving, higher local fuel prices, or increased mileage will all significantly increase your yearly fuel expenditure. The reality is that for a car of this caliber, fuel costs aren’t a primary concern for most owners. They are paying for performance, prestige, and the sheer thrill of driving a flagship AMG model.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can fluctuate considerably based on driving style and conditions. In city driving, aggressive acceleration and frequent stops will undoubtedly push fuel consumption well below the 15 MPG mark. Conversely, on long highway journeys with a gentle right foot, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 24 MPG rating is possible. However, it’s unlikely that many S63 Convertible owners will prioritize fuel efficiency above the car’s performance potential. Expect to see numbers closer to the combined rating in most scenarios.

How it compares

When viewed against its direct competitors, the 2018 AMG S63 Convertible’s fuel economy shows performance-focused priorities rather than efficiency. For instance, the BMW M850i xDrive Convertible, while not a direct AMG competitor, offers a similar blend of performance and luxury and achieves around 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Bentley Continental GT Convertible, a true ultra-luxury competitor, typically returns even lower figures, landing around 15 MPG combined. Checking AMG MPG across all years shows a trend of performance over efficiency. Buyers in this segment acknowledge that exceptional performance comes at a price, and fuel economy is often a secondary consideration compared to the driving experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the main focus, some strategies can help minimize fuel consumption in the AMG S63 Convertible. Smooth acceleration and avoiding unnecessary hard braking are critical. The powerful V8 responds directly to throttle input, modulating the accelerator pedal will significantly impact fuel usage.

Use the car’s driving modes appropriately. The “Comfort” mode, if available, will soften throttle response and encourage earlier upshifts, resulting in better fuel economy compared to the “Sport” or “Sport+” modes. Choosing the right mode for the driving conditions can yield noticeable benefits.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check and maintain the recommended tire pressures outlined in the owner’s manual.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Removing excess items from the trunk and passenger compartment reduces the burden on the engine, leading to marginal improvements in fuel economy. While the effect is small, every little bit helps.

Consider longer trips. Short trips with a cold engine are less efficient than longer journeys when the engine has reached its optimal operating temperature. Combining errands into a single trip can improve overall fuel consumption. For all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, compare similar models to see how efficient the S63 really is.