14 MPG combined might induce sticker shock on many vehicles, but on the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G550, it’s almost a badge of honor. This isn’t a car for budget-conscious commuters; it’s a statement, a rolling declaration of capability and exclusivity. The G550 is bought by those who value its uncompromising off-road ability, its distinctive design, and its undeniable presence. Fuel economy is simply not a primary concern for its clientele.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates reflect what you might expect from a large, heavy SUV powered by a potent 4.0L V8 engine. The Mercedes G550 achieves 13 MPG in the city and 17 MPG on the highway. These figures are a direct result of the vehicle’s considerable weight, full-time four-wheel-drive system and its boxy, aerodynamic profile that cuts through the air with the grace of a brick. The 9-speed automatic transmission does its best to optimize fuel use, but ultimately, physics wins. Few owners focus on the mileage they are getting while driving, and simply enjoy the throaty exhaust of the V8 engine.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz G550 is estimated to be $4,150. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Owners should factor this high fuel cost into their budget, as it is a significant expense. If you are concerned about this number, you are not the intended buyer of the G550. Of course, if someone wants to investigate all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, they can do so, but this probably will not change someone’s mind about buying the G550.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving habits and conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-road excursions, and prolonged idling will all lead to lower MPG. Conversely, gentle highway cruising might yield slightly better results than the EPA estimate, but don’t expect miracles. For the vast majority of G550 owners, fuel consumption is a secondary consideration compared to the driving experience and the sheer enjoyment of owning such an iconic vehicle. If you want to compare G550 MPG across all years, you can do so.

How it compares

Compared to other luxury SUVs with similar performance capabilities, the G550 sits at the lower end of the fuel economy spectrum. For example, the Land Rover Range Rover P525 with its supercharged V8 manages around 16 MPG combined, a slight improvement. The BMW X7 M50i, another powerful SUV, achieves around 18 MPG combined. Even the Cadillac Escalade, known for its size and power, can reach around 17 MPG combined in its 6.2L V8 configuration. These comparisons highlight the G550’s unapologetic focus on off-road ability and iconic design, prioritizing these attributes over outright fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be a primary concern, there are still a few steps G550 owners can take to improve their MPG. Gentle acceleration and coasting whenever possible can make a noticeable difference, especially in city driving. This vehicle responds poorly to heavy acceleration.

Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, impacting fuel economy. Many G550 owners may not know or think about this, but it can improve mileage slightly.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary, so turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute. This is good for the environment in general and, although it has a small impact, it is worth doing.

Consider using premium fuel as recommended by Mercedes-Benz. While not directly impacting MPG, it ensures optimal engine performance and prevents potential issues that could indirectly affect fuel efficiency. Using regular fuel can diminish the driving experience and may impact fuel economy, even though this is a high-performance engine.

Service your vehicle at the recommended intervals. Making sure a trained mechanic has inspected your vehicle can make sure that the engine is running optimally. Dirty air filters or old spark plugs can impact fuel economy greatly, especially with turbocharged automobiles.