20 MPG combined in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560 4matic Coupe 4.0L 8-cyl shows that to enter this level of luxury you should expect a certain level of fuel consumption. This isn’t a commuter car, it’s a statement. It’s a two-door embodiment of luxury, effortless power, and advanced technology, and its drivers are usually more concerned with experiencing the finest things in life than squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. These are individuals for whom the sonorous burble of a hand-built V8 delivering nearly 500 horsepower is music, not noise. They appreciate hand-stitched leather, meticulously crafted wood trim, and a ride quality that is quiet. Fuel costs for the S560 are a rounding error on their budget.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway for the S560 Coupe. The city number reflects the inherent inefficiency of stop-and-go traffic, where the substantial weight of the car and the large displacement engine work against it. However, the highway figure is respectable, thanks to the smooth-shifting nine-speed automatic transmission. On the open road, the S560 settles into a relaxed cruise, its twin-turbo V8 barely working hard. This translates to relatively decent efficiency for a vehicle that can quickly cover a quarter mile. The all-wheel-drive system, denoted by the “4matic” designation, adds weight and complexity, slightly impacting fuel economy compared to a rear-wheel-drive variant but provides all-weather confidence many owners demand.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Mercedes-Benz S560 4matic Coupe at $2,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a 55% city and 45% highway driving split, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline. Of course, your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of gasoline you choose to use (although premium is recommended for optimal engine performance). But $2,900 provides a standardized comparison point against other vehicles in its class. Review S560 MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the S560 Coupe will likely vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper maintenance can help you achieve figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. Owners should also consider the impact of optional extras like larger wheels and performance tires, which can increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Remember, this is a performance-oriented luxury vehicle. Driving it like one will result in fuel consumption reflecting that.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the S560’s fuel economy slots into a predictable range. The BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, another high-performance grand tourer, achieves a similar 17 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. The now-discontinued Audi RS7 offered comparable power but slightly worse fuel economy, hovering around 15 MPG city. Even the Porsche Panamera, available in a wide range of trims, struggles to significantly outperform the S560 in terms of fuel efficiency in its higher-powered V8 guises. The slight differences here underscore the reality that at this level of performance and luxury, fuel economy is not a primary consideration for buyers. They simply prefer to drive these magnificent cars and accept the fuel economy penalty.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While saving gas might not be the top priority for S560 Coupe owners, there are still steps you can take to improve fuel economy without sacrificing too much performance. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The S560’s engine is incredibly responsive, but using that power excessively will significantly impact fuel consumption. Use the car’s driving modes to your advantage. The “Comfort” or “Eco” modes will optimize the engine and transmission settings for efficiency over performance.

Ensure tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels. Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo adds to the car’s overall weight, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and cabin.

Schedule regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Finally, plan your routes to avoid stop-and-go traffic. Idling in traffic consumes fuel without covering any distance, so try to plan routes that minimize congestion.