The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4matic gets 24 MPG combined. This may not seem outstanding, but consider that the GLC300 aims to be a luxurious, comfortable, and capable compact SUV with all-wheel drive. Buyers in this segment want a refined driving experience and the Mercedes-Benz brand, often accepting slightly lower fuel efficiency. They’re willing to pay more for the GLC300’s features.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLC300 4matic gets 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder to accelerate. The 9-speed automatic transmission helps fuel economy on the highway, allowing the engine to run at lower RPMs when cruising. While the highway number is reasonable, achieving it requires careful driving and avoiding speeding. If you consistently drive over 75 mph, expect lower MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4matic will cost about $2,400 per year in fuel. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using a national average fuel price. Your costs will vary with location and driving style. Drivers in congested urban areas or who accelerate quickly will likely exceed this estimate. However, those who drive mostly on highways and drive efficiently might spend less. This figure gives consumers a benchmark for budgeting their transportation expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized rating, but real-world fuel economy can differ. Driving habits, traffic, weather, and tire pressure can influence your actual MPG. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and idling will hurt fuel efficiency. Cold weather can also lower MPG, as engines need more fuel to reach operating temperatures. Expect your personal driving conditions will result in a different MPG than the EPA rating.

How it compares

The GLC300 4matic’s fuel economy is about average for its class. The BMW X3 xDrive30i also gets 24 MPG combined, with identical city/highway splits. The Acura RDX SH-AWD gets 23 MPG combined. Some competitors offer slightly better fuel economy, like the Lexus NX 300h AWD hybrid at 31 MPG combined, but with a different driving experience and potentially higher initial cost. For those considering fuel economy, it may be useful to review GLC300 MPG across all years to see trends and variations in fuel efficiency across older models. These small MPG differences might be less important than brand prestige, interior, and driving for the typical GLC300 buyer. You can also review all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to better understand the brand’s lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One easy way to improve fuel economy in the GLC300 4matic is to drive more smoothly. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, anticipating traffic and maintaining a consistent speed. The GLC300’s 9-speed transmission is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient range, so let it do its job by driving predictably.

Regular maintenance is also important. Make sure your tires are inflated to the correct pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled oil changes and other maintenance, as a well-maintained engine will operate more efficiently. Use the recommended grade of fuel and consider high-quality synthetic oil, which can reduce friction and improve MPG.

Keep extra weight out of the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or on the roof rack increases the load on the engine, hurting fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need and only use the roof rack when necessary. Even small amounts of extra weight can impact MPG, especially in city driving.

Consider using the GLC300’s drive mode selector to choose “Eco” or “Comfort” mode, if available. These modes often adjust engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency. While you might lose some responsiveness, you can see a better MPG, especially during longer commutes or highway driving.