The 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 gets 27 MPG combined, which places it in the middle of the compact luxury sedan class. It’s neither the most fuel-efficient nor the least, and that’s likely fine for most C300 buyers. This car is bought for its style, comfort, and performance, so being average in fuel efficiency isn’t a deal-breaker for those who want the prestige and driving experience of a Mercedes-Benz.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 C300 gets 23 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. This difference shows how well the nine-speed automatic transmission works, letting the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine run at lower RPMs on the highway to save fuel. City driving, with its constant stop-and-go, uses more gas. The C300’s quick acceleration also means drivers tend to step on the gas more in the city, which also lowers city MPG numbers. This is typical of turbocharged engines, which often have a large difference between their EPA city and highway ratings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz C300 is $2,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price, which changes. Premium fuel is recommended for the C300 for best performance, and its higher cost is included in this $2,150 estimate. Your actual fuel cost will depend on how you drive, the roads you use, and the fuel prices in your area. To compare this to all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, look at vehicles within the same class and model year to understand the relative fuel cost implications.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a starting point, but your fuel economy will likely be different. The C300’s turbocharged engine responds well and is fun to drive. If you accelerate often and drive aggressively, your MPG will be lower than the EPA estimates. But if you drive carefully, anticipating traffic and avoiding hard braking, you might get close to, or even slightly better than, the EPA ratings, especially on long highway trips.

How it compares

The C300’s 27 MPG combined is competitive for its class. The BMW 330i, for example, gets 28 MPG combined. The Audi A4, with its 2.0-liter turbo, gets about 27 MPG combined. The Lexus IS 300, with its base engine, gets less, at 24 MPG combined. Buyers who are thinking about the C300 often look at these other cars. The MPG difference may not seem like much, but it can add up over a year, especially since premium fuel is required. However, fuel economy is rarely the only reason to buy one of these vehicles. It’s a mix of performance, features, brand, and driving experience. Compare the C300 MPG across all years to determine the best model year for your budget and needs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the C300’s Eco drive mode. This mode changes the engine and transmission settings to focus on fuel efficiency instead of quick acceleration. It might feel a little slower, but it can help, especially in stop-and-go traffic. Use cruise control on the highway. Keeping a steady speed is more efficient than speeding up and slowing down.

Make sure your tires have the right amount of air. Tires with low air pressure increase resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and fill them to the level the manufacturer recommends. You can find this on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Even a small change in pressure can help; sometimes the simple things make a difference.

Don’t carry extra weight in the car. Extra cargo in the trunk or back seat will reduce fuel economy, though not as much as with a fully loaded truck. Take out anything you don’t need to make the car lighter. Doing so will increase your MPG, even if only a little, which is always a good thing.

Avoid driving aggressively. Accelerating quickly and braking hard use more fuel than accelerating slowly and stopping smoothly. Watch the traffic and keep a steady speed when you can, and leave enough space between you and the car in front of you. This will save fuel and make driving more relaxing.

Think about the route you take. In cities, routes with fewer stoplights or driving during less busy times can save fuel by reducing idling. Plan your trips to combine errands to reduce the number of cold starts, which are the least fuel-efficient part of driving.