20 MPG combined from the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe 4.0L 8-cyl isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards. However, that’s not the point. This is a snarling, high-performance machine designed to deliver thrills first and foremost. Its fuel consumption, while certainly a factor for some, is less important than the intoxicating sound of its hand-built V8 and the raw power it unleashes. This isn’t just transportation; it’s a statement. The buyer of this vehicle seeks a visceral experience, a connection to the road, and the bragging rights that come with owning a true performance icon.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA figures, the AMG C63 Coupe achieves 17 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic. The C63’s eager throttle response and potent low-end torque beg to be unleashed, traits that inevitably lead to higher fuel consumption. The highway number, while more respectable, is still a far cry from the efficiency of a hybrid or even a more mainstream sedan. The C63’s aerodynamic profile, though sleek and attractive, is not optimized for maximum fuel efficiency. Power is prioritized above all else.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG C63 Coupe. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price for premium fuel at the time of calculation. However, it is crucial to recognize that this is merely an estimate. Actual fuel costs can vary significantly based on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific type of driving undertaken. Someone who frequently engages in spirited driving or lives in an area with high fuel prices will likely exceed this estimate. It’s a baseline, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

Owners of the AMG C63 Coupe rarely achieve the stated EPA figures in real-world driving. The temptation to use the car’s performance capabilities is simply too strong. Aggressive acceleration, frequent downshifts, and higher speeds are all inherent parts of the C63 ownership experience. Expect to see figures closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even slightly below, if you regularly indulge in the car’s performance potential. The fuel light will become a familiar friend.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the AMG C63’s fuel economy is typical. The BMW M4 Competition manages roughly 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, which isn’t a significant advantage. The Audi RS5 Coupe, known for its slightly more restrained character, yields around 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway. The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, with its monstrous supercharged V8, comes in even lower. For those truly seeking a more efficient option in this segment, the mild-hybrid offerings from BMW like the M440i xDrive Coupe return an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. But that buyer is looking for a different kind of experience. The C63 Coupe emphasizes raw power and emotional engagement, a trade-off some drivers are happy to make.

Tips to maximize efficiency

If you want to improve MPG, while the AMG C63 Coupe is not designed for ultimate fuel efficiency, there are steps owners can take. Smooth acceleration and gentle braking can make a noticeable difference, especially in city driving. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The 9-speed automatic transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy when driven conservatively, so let it do its job.

Use the car’s driving modes wisely. Comfort or Eco modes can improve fuel efficiency during everyday commuting, limiting throttle response and optimizing shift points. Save the Sport and Sport+ modes for those occasions when you want to fully use the car’s performance potential. The difference in fuel consumption between these modes can be substantial.

Regular maintenance is key to optimal performance. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and that the engine is running smoothly. A well-maintained engine is a more efficient engine. Skipping oil changes or delaying other routine maintenance can negatively impact fuel economy.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. This is especially true in modern cars with advanced starting systems.

Consider your routes carefully. Choosing routes with less stop-and-go traffic can significantly improve your fuel economy. This may involve taking slightly longer routes, but the savings in fuel can often outweigh the added time. Avoiding rush hour congestion is a simple way to reduce fuel consumption.
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