17 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, but within the world of high-performance coupes like the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R, it’s simply the price you pay. This isn’t a car purchased by commuters looking for less gas; it’s a statement of speed, power, and track-ready capability. Its drivers prioritize apexes and acceleration over fuel efficiency. The GT R’s mission is clear: deliver visceral thrills, and the 4.0L twin-turbo V8 under its long hood fulfills that mission with strong force. Considering MPG figures might seem almost disrespectful to what the GT R truly represents, yet understanding the costs associated with owning this beast is a valid consideration.

City and highway performance

The AMG GT R’s EPA ratings break down to 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The difference between city and highway isn’t particularly dramatic, suggesting that the engine’s thirst is relatively consistent. Stop-and-go city driving rarely allows the turbos to spool up fully, meaning consumption is dictated by the sheer size and displacement of the V8. On the open highway, at consistent speeds, the GT R likely benefits from its aerodynamic profile and carefully calibrated gearing, extracting every mile possible from each gallon, however, the temptation to exploit the ample power will always be a factor in real-world highway MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT R at $3,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Given that the GT R demands premium fuel, this figure isn’t surprising. Potential owners should heavily consider that number and understand that even aggressive driving, or higher-than-average gas prices could result in considerably higher costs at the pump. It’s a serious premium, but a premium that’s expected from a car in this class.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers offer a baseline, real-world MPG for the AMG GT R will largely depend on driving style. Those who frequently unleash the car’s ferocious acceleration and spend time on the track are likely to see figures below the EPA averages. Conversely, drivers who primarily use the car for longer cruises and resist the temptation to floor the accelerator might achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s estimates. However, even when driven conservatively, the laws of physics dictate that moving nearly 3,600 pounds of high-performance car requires a considerable amount of fuel. For more information about all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data then check out our database.

How it compares

Compared to other high-performance coupes, the AMG GT R’s fuel economy is within the expected range. For example, a 2020 Porsche 911 Turbo S, while slightly more efficient thanks to its engine design, still manages only 15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway, reflecting how difficult it is to achieve high MPG with so much power. The V8 powered Chevrolet Corvette C8 Z06 manages 12 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. These figures emphasize that cars like the GT R exist to deliver performance, and fuel economy is a secondary consideration. Exploring the AMG MPG across all years will reveal how the broader lineup fares in this regard.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While outright fuel efficiency isn’t the AMG GT R’s strong suit, that doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to minimize consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these habits significantly impact fuel economy. Smooth, progressive throttle inputs are key to keeping the turbos from constantly spooling up.

Ensure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly, especially before longer trips.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine, although this is more practical in normal cars. In this car, the need to showcase the exhaust note will probably override rational judgement.

Use the car’s driving modes judiciously. The AMG GT R offers various driving modes, and selecting a more economical mode can help to optimize fuel consumption during regular driving. Reserve the more aggressive settings for when you truly want to exploit the car’s dynamic potential.

Consider combining trips and planning routes to avoid traffic congestion. Stop-and-go traffic dramatically reduces fuel economy. Combining errands into a single trip and choosing less congested routes can help to improve your overall MPG.