23 MPG combined from the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e 3.0L 4-cyl isn’t going to win any green awards, and frankly, it’s not intended to. This is a flagship luxury sedan, a rolling statement of success and technological prowess. Fuel efficiency is secondary to opulence, performance, and the ability to transport occupants in near-silent, electrically-assisted comfort.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 21 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway for the S560e. The city figure might seem low, but this S-Class has a plug-in hybrid system. The vehicle can travel a limited distance on electric power alone, helping reduce fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic. Once the electric range is depleted, the vehicle reverts to gasoline propulsion, where the fuel economy is less impressive. Highway performance is more predictable, with the 9-speed automatic transmission keeping the engine at its most efficient at cruising speeds, assuming you resist the urge to exploit its considerable power reserves. Explore S560E MPG across all years to see how this compares.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,500 for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz S560e. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specified percentage of those miles driven in the city versus on the highway, and assumes national average fuel prices. Your actual costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and how frequently you use the plug-in hybrid system.

Real-world expectations

Drivers of the S560e likely have wildly varying experiences with fuel economy. Someone who consistently plugs in and primarily uses the car for short commutes could see significantly better numbers than the EPA estimates, especially if they drive mostly within the vehicle’s electric range. On the other hand, an owner who frequently travels long distances and rarely plugs in will likely see fuel economy closer to the highway rating, or even lower if they frequently drive aggressively. The S560e’s fuel economy is highly dependent on driving style and charging habits.

How it compares

The S560e competes with other luxury sedans offering a blend of performance, technology, and plug-in hybrid capability. The BMW 745e xDrive, another plug-in hybrid, is rated at 22 MPG combined, placing it roughly in the same ballpark as the S560e. The Lexus LS 500h, a hybrid but not a plug-in, achieves 25 MPG combined, offering slightly better economy, but it lacks the all-electric range of the Mercedes. A non-hybrid competitor like the Audi A8 posts around 22 MPG combined with its standard engine. The S560e buyer may not hyper-focus on MPG, but its plug-in ability can differentiate it from other luxury flagship models to support lower fuel costs with high luxury transportation. Compare all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to put these figures in perspective.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Prioritize plugging in. The benefits of the S560e’s hybrid system are drastically reduced if you don’t regularly charge the battery. Make it a habit to plug in at home or at public charging stations whenever possible to maximize your electric-only driving range, particularly for short trips.

Use the different drive modes strategically. The S560e offers various drive modes like “Electric,” “Hybrid,” and “E-Save.” Select “Electric” for short commutes to maximize electric range. Use “Hybrid” for longer trips, allowing the car to intelligently manage the electric and gasoline power sources. “E-Save” mode preserves the battery charge for later use, such as in a city center with restricted emissions.

Anticipate traffic flow. Smooth and predictable driving minimizes the need for hard acceleration and braking, which consumes more fuel and drains the battery faster. Look ahead, anticipate traffic conditions, and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess weight in your S560e increases fuel consumption, regardless of whether you’re running on gasoline or electricity. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and cabin to lighten the load.