18 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic Plus expecting Prius-like efficiency. This is a hand-built, fire-breathing, all-wheel-drive super sedan cloaked in relatively understated luxury. Fuel economy is not the priority for the buyer who wants the thrill of a 603-horsepower V8 capable of launching this executive sedan to 60 mph in a mind-bending 3.3 seconds. Its existence isn’t about maximizing miles; it’s about maximizing grins per mile.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG E63 S at 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These numbers, while seemingly low in today’s world of hybrid and electric vehicles, are respectable when you consider the performance. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the AMG E63’s power is mostly kept in check. The highway number suggests that the car can be relatively efficient when cruising at a steady speed, due in part to its 9-speed automatic transmission. However, even the slightest prod of the accelerator can quickly see that MPG figure plummet as the turbos spool up.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic Plus to be $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This cost should be viewed as a best-case scenario; drivers who are heavy-footed, or those who spend more time in congested urban environments, can expect to exceed that amount substantially. It’s also crucial to remember that this car requires premium fuel, further adding to the cost. Someone considering all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data already understands that high performance demands a high price, both at the dealership and at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the AMG E63 S can vary significantly based on driving style and conditions. Driving with enthusiasm, which is almost unavoidable with this car, will drastically reduce fuel efficiency. Expect to see numbers closer to 12-13 MPG in the city and potentially even lower if you frequently engage in hard acceleration.

On the highway, achieving the EPA’s 23 MPG is possible, but requires disciplined driving and a conscious effort to resist the temptation of the car’s immense power. Those exploring AMG MPG across all years will consistently find performance trades off against fuel economy. The typical AMG E63 S owner likely accepts that the thrill of driving this car outweighs any concerns about fuel costs.

How it compares

The 2020 AMG E63 S occupies a niche where performance and luxury are important, and fuel economy is secondary. Competitors like the BMW M5 Competition deliver similar performance with comparable fuel economy around 17 MPG combined. The Audi RS 7, with its similar horsepower numbers, comes in at around 18 MPG combined. Even the Porsche Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid, despite being a hybrid, only manages around 22 MPG combined when factoring in electric-only driving and 19 MPG combined when running on only gasoline. These numbers highlight that high-performance sedans and coupes, regardless of drivetrain technology, remain relatively thirsty machines. The buyer in this segment prioritizes power and driving dynamics over saving gas, a compromise baked into the ownership experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The AMG E63 S has tremendous power available with even moderate throttle input. A gentle touch on the accelerator, especially when starting from a stop, can significantly improve fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and coast whenever possible, allowing the car to decelerate naturally rather than relying on hard braking.

Use the car’s driving modes. The “Comfort” or “Eco” modes, if equipped on your model, will remap the throttle response and shift points for more efficient driving. While these modes may diminish the car’s aggressive character, they can improve fuel economy during everyday commuting.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The AMG E63 S has a quick-starting engine, so restarting it is not a significant inconvenience.

Consider a less aggressive driving style. This may seem obvious, but constantly exploiting the car’s power and pushing it to its limits will inevitably result in poor fuel economy. Reserve spirited driving for occasional bursts of fun and adopt a smoother, more relaxed style for daily driving.