22 MPG combined isn’t a headline figure for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E450 4matic wagon, but it’s a realistic compromise for what this car provides. This is a seriously capable and luxurious all-weather hauler with a smooth 3.0-liter inline-six, not a stripped-down economy car. The E450 wagon appeals to a specific buyer: someone who values space, safety, and understated elegance above all else and who’s willing to pay for (and fuel) it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the E450 4matic wagon break down to 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go driving, where the car’s considerable weight and the engine’s need to overcome inertia take their toll. The highway MPG is more respectable, aided by the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs and improve efficiency. However, it’s still a far cry from a dedicated fuel-sipper.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA pegs the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz E450 4matic wagon at $2,650. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, and uses the national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how and where you drive, as well as fluctuations in gasoline prices. For E450 buyers, this is likely a known and accepted expense, factored into the overall cost of ownership for a vehicle of this caliber.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, your real-world fuel economy with the E450 wagon will depend heavily on your driving style and conditions. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will negatively impact your MPG. In contrast, a smooth and consistent driving style, especially at highway speeds, will help you approach or even slightly exceed the EPA’s 26 MPG estimate. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and fluid checks, is also critical for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency. Don’t expect hybrid-like numbers, but keeping the car properly maintained will help to keep the fuel bills down.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the E450 4matic wagon lands somewhere in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. Consider the Volvo V90 T6 AWD, another premium wagon that delivers slightly worse fuel economy at 22 combined/21 city/32 highway. Then there’s the Audi A6 allroad, with its comparable 22 combined/20 city/26 highway MPG. These figures underscore that premium wagons, with their focus on performance and refinement, typically prioritize those characteristics over outright fuel efficiency. Buyers considering the E450 should also look at E450 MPG across all years, noting that the model has changed through the years. For those seeking better fuel economy within the Mercedes-Benz range, exploring other models or even considering one of the hybrid offerings would be a better fit. You can see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on this site. The trade-off is often a less spacious and versatile vehicle.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the E450’s driving modes. Selecting “Comfort” or “Eco” mode will adjust the throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance. While “Sport” and “Sport+” modes are great for spirited driving, they will naturally consume more fuel.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and maintain it consistently.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be restarted efficiently, so turning off the engine during extended stops, such as at traffic lights or in parking lots, will save fuel. The E450’s auto start/stop feature assists with this, use it!

Plan your trips and avoid peak traffic hours whenever possible. Stop-and-go traffic significantly reduces fuel economy. By opting for routes with fewer traffic lights and less congestion, you can improve your MPG.

Lighten the load. Removing unnecessary items from the car, such as sports equipment or extra luggage, reduces weight and improves fuel economy. The E450 wagon is designed to carry a lot, but the lighter you travel, the better the fuel economy.