18 MPG combined is likely something most 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 4matic Plus owners overlook, if they consider it at all. This isn’t a car purchased for being economical. It’s a high-performance SUV that’s made for backroad drives and loud exhaust, built to deliver an thrilling experience first. Fuel efficiency is secondary to raw power and driving dynamics here.

City and highway performance

The GLC63’s EPA estimates are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows how much gas the engine uses in stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, conditions where the turbocharged V8 rarely operates efficiently. The highway number is better, but even when cruising, the GLC63 has so much power that drivers will accelerate, which hurts fuel consumption. Drivers interested in seeing all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data might be surprised by these figures, but the people who buy this vehicle expect it.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC63 4matic Plus is $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate, your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving, fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. The GLC63’s high-performance engine needs premium fuel, additionally contributing to higher costs.

Real-world expectations

Getting the EPA estimates in real-world conditions with the GLC63 is possible, but you have to drive carefully. The temptation to use the engine’s power often leads to worse fuel economy. Drivers who spend most of their time in cities or drive aggressively can expect to see figures closer to the city MPG rating. Careful drivers with long highway commutes might get close to the 22 MPG highway figure, but driving at the speed limit and gentle acceleration are important.

How it compares

The AMG GLC63 is in a competitive class of performance SUVs where efficiency isn’t usually a priority, but comparisons are still made. The BMW X3 M Competition, another high-performance SUV, gets a similar 16 MPG city and 19 MPG combined. The Porsche Macan Turbo, while not as powerful, gets a slightly better 17 MPG city and 19 MPG combined. These small differences probably won’t change the minds of buyers interested in the GLC63’s character and performance potential, but it does provide context amidst seeing AMG MPG across all years. Buyers who want the AMG GLC63 are choosing its combination of practicality and speed over better fuel efficiency. They understand the trade-off and will pay the cost of owning it.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t constantly use the engine’s power. The turbocharged V8 responds quickly and is fun to drive, but accelerating hard will hurt fuel economy a lot. Gentle acceleration and predicting traffic are important to saving fuel.

Use the “Comfort” or “Eco” driving modes when you can. These modes reduce throttle response and shift points, but they can greatly improve fuel efficiency in everyday driving. Keep the more aggressive modes for when performance matters.

Keep the correct tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more gas. Regularly check your tires and inflate them to the correct pressure to improve efficiency.

Avoid idling. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’re stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The GLC63’s engine management system can handle frequent starts and stops easily.