19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any lower fuel costs awards, but that’s not the point of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic Plus wagon. This is a hand-built performance machine disguised as a family wagon, able to outperform sports cars while carrying groceries and the dog. Fuel economy is a compromise, not the main goal for buyers seeking this unique combination of practicality and unadulterated power.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the E63 S wagon at 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects frequent stops, where the big V8 works to overcome the car’s weight. The highway figure is better, showing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently when not stressed. Few E63 S wagons will spend their lives only on long, flat highway stretches. The appeal is partly the ability to unleash its fury on winding backroads, where that 23 MPG figure becomes a distant memory.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG E63 S 4matic Plus wagon is $3,050. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined fuel economy of 19 MPG. The calculation also uses national average fuel prices, which fluctuate but provide a benchmark. It’s a large fuel bill, but buyers spending six figures on a high-performance wagon are probably less sensitive to fuel costs than those shopping for a fuel-efficient car. They are paying for performance and exclusivity, with fuel economy as a secondary concern.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides an estimate, your real-world MPG will vary. Aggressive driving, short trips where the engine doesn’t reach temperature, and weather like cold temperatures can hurt fuel economy. Expect numbers slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving, especially if you frequently use the car’s power. However, smooth acceleration and consistent highway speeds could yield slightly better results. The E63 S encourages a certain driving style, so achieving much higher MPG figures will be difficult for many owners.

How it compares

The market for high-performance wagons is limited, making comparisons difficult. The Porsche Panamera Turbo Sport Turismo, while not a traditional wagon, offers similar performance and practicality. It achieves roughly 18 MPG combined, placing it near the E63 S. The lighter Audi RS6 Avant, with its own twin-turbo V8, manages a slightly better 20 MPG combined in its latest version. Within the Mercedes-Benz family, the E450 4matic wagon achieves better fuel economy, around 25 MPG combined, but lacks the E63 S’s power and hand-built AMG engine. Even the smaller AMG C63 S wagon manages only 19 MPG combined, showing that performance tuning impacts efficiency regardless of size. For those interested in exploring all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, there are many less performance oriented options available.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Understand and use the car’s driving modes. The AMG Dynamic Select system allows you to choose between modes, from Comfort to Race. Comfort mode softens the throttle, optimizes shift points, and encourages a relaxed driving style, which can improve fuel economy.

Be mindful of your right foot. The E63 S has power, and it’s tempting to use it. Hard acceleration and sudden braking will decrease your MPG. Smooth inputs will improve fuel efficiency and enhance the driving experience.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain the levels on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce weight. Carrying extra cargo adds weight, which hurts fuel economy. Remove items from the trunk or cargo area that you don’t need. Small weight reductions can add up. If interested in AMG MPG across all years, consider how features and engine sizes impact overall efficiency.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, deposits can build up in the fuel injectors, reducing their ability to spray fuel efficiently. A fuel additive can help remove these deposits and restore optimal fuel atomization, potentially improving MPG slightly.