19 MPG combined is the price of driving the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63. It’s a figure that won’t win any awards for less gas, but it accurately reflects this high-performance roadster. This isn’t transportation for everyone; it’s a statement, a visceral experience, and a showcase of engineering. The kind of buyer considering an AMG SL63 likely has multiple cars and sees this vehicle as a weekend escape, not a daily commuter.

City and highway performance

The official EPA estimates break down to 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the SL63’s thirsty 5.5L biturbo V8 and the stop-and-go conditions where its power is constantly restrained. The highway number is more respectable, although still not class-leading, suggesting that at a steady cruise, the engine isn’t working too hard. This difference highlights that the SL63 will perform best on open roads, living up to its grand touring aspirations. The 7-speed automatic transmission helps highway efficiency by finding the optimal gear, but the prodigious power output comes at a cost.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz AMG SL63 will be $3,050. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a roughly 55/45 split between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. It’s a considerable sum, and owners should consider it in the overall cost. It’s also a reminder that choosing performance comes with financial implications that extend beyond the initial purchase price. To compare these figures with the rest of the brand, consult all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving style and conditions. Expect to see numbers below 16 MPG in spirited city driving, especially with frequent bursts of acceleration. On long highway journeys, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 25 MPG rating is possible with careful throttle control. But, resist the urge to exploit the engine’s full potential, and your mileage will suffer. Most AMG SL63 owners don’t obsess over fuel economy, but understanding these factors will give you a realistic picture of what to expect.

How it compares

The 2018 AMG SL63 is in a competitive segment where performance and status often outweigh fuel efficiency. A Porsche 911 Carrera S, while not directly comparable in body style, offers similar performance with better fuel economy, achieving around 22 MPG combined. A BMW M6 Convertible, another powerful drop-top from the same era, posts similar MPG numbers, around 17 city, 24 highway. A Jaguar F-TYPE R Convertible, known for its driving experience, manages roughly 18 MPG combined. These comparisons matter to the buyer who wants to weigh performance against operating costs even within a select group of high-performance vehicles. If you’re curious about the fuel economy trends in this specific line of cars, you can view AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the AMG SL63’s performance focus, fuel savings requires effort. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The biturbo V8 responds quickly to throttle inputs, so a gentle approach to acceleration will reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Correct tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and adjust them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This is crucial given the SL63’s high performance capabilities, where optimal tire pressure is key for both safety and efficiency.

Use the car’s driving modes intelligently. The AMG SL63 offers different driving modes that can impact fuel economy. Selecting a more conservative mode, such as Comfort, will tame the engine’s response and encourage earlier upshifts, leading to better fuel efficiency. Save the Sport and Sport+ modes for those occasions when performance is important.

Keep up with maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Ensure that your AMG SL63 receives regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other scheduled maintenance according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A properly tuned engine delivers optimal performance and fuel economy.