21 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for flagship luxury sedans like the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560, those figures are almost an afterthought. Buyers of this vehicle prioritize opulent comfort, cutting-edge technology, and effortless power over maximizing miles per gallon. They’re seeking a quiet and refined driving experience, and the S560 delivers that. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, but rarely the deciding factor.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 S560 are 17 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands placed on the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 in stop-and-go traffic, as the S560’s weight comes into play. On the open road, however, the S560 shines, thanks to the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission that allows the engine to cruise at low RPMs. That highway number is respectable for a car of this size and performance capability. Drivers should remember that aggressive acceleration, even in Comfort mode, will significantly and negatively impact both city and highway figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,750 for the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary widely depending on your driving habits, location, and prevailing fuel prices. If most of your miles are in congested city environments, expect to exceed this estimate. Conversely, primarily highway driving might result in lower annual spending on fuel. Those interested in S560 MPG across all years should also note that these figures are estimates.

Real-world expectations

Owners of the 2018 S560 can expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions. In a purely urban environment with frequent stops and starts, achieving 17 MPG consistently might be a challenge. However, a balanced mix of city and highway driving should yield results within a reasonable range. Some drivers have reported exceeding the EPA highway figure during long road trips, demonstrating the engine’s efficiency when operating at a steady speed. The key is to drive smoothly, avoid harsh acceleration, and use the car’s driving modes to optimize for fuel economy when appropriate. Checking all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data can provide further insight regarding other models.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz S560 occupies a typical position in terms of fuel economy. For example, the BMW 750i xDrive, with its 4.4L V8, achieves an EPA-rated 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The Audi A8 L 3.0T, with its supercharged V6, delivers around 19 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The Porsche Panamera 4S, with its 2.9L twin-turbo V6, posts figures closer to 19 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. While there are small variances, the S560 isn’t a significant outlier in this segment. These comparisons show that vehicles prioritizing performance and opulence typically don’t lead the fuel economy charts. Buyers considering vehicles in this class understand they are making trade-offs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the car’s “Comfort” or “Eco” driving mode in routine driving. These modes typically soften throttle response and adjust transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance. The S560’s advanced technology improves efficiency, and these modes allow them to function optimally.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, gradual inputs are more fuel-efficient than sudden bursts of speed followed by hard braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy compared to manually modulating the throttle. This is especially beneficial on long, relatively flat stretches of road.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, increasing fuel consumption. Declutter your trunk and remove any items that you don’t need on a regular basis.