19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz AMG S63 4matic Plus Coupe, it’s the price of admission to a world of handcrafted performance and opulent luxury. This isn’t a car for the budget-conscious; it’s for those who prioritize visceral thrills and exclusivity above all else. Fuel efficiency is simply lower on the list of priorities, somewhere below the Burmester surround sound system and above the color of the brake calipers.

City and highway performance

The S63 AMG Coupe’s EPA ratings break down to 16 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go conditions and the temptation to tap into the 603 horsepower and 664 lb-ft of torque produced by the hand-built 4.0L twin-turbo V8. On the open road, the 9-speed automatic transmission settles into a comfortable cruise, allowing for respectable highway mileage, assuming you resist the urge to unleash the full potential of the engine with every passing opportunity. The aerodynamic profile of the coupe contributes positively at higher speeds, but ultimately, the S63’s mass resists any attempts at hypermiling.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 AMG S63 Coupe at $3,050. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price (which fluctuates, of course). Premium fuel is required for optimal performance and longevity in this high-performance engine, which will further contribute to real-world fuel expenses. The $3,050 number provides a benchmark, but individual driving habits and fuel prices will heavily influence the final bill. For many S63 owners, this expense represents a small fraction of the overall cost of ownership, including insurance, maintenance, and potential depreciation.

Real-world expectations

Anyone buying an AMG S63 Coupe primarily for fuel economy is making a profound miscalculation. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates if you drive with restraint, but anticipate lower figures if you regularly exploit the car’s performance capabilities. Spirited driving, which is the reason for the S63’s existence, will dramatically reduce fuel efficiency. Factors such as traffic conditions, climate, and tire pressure will also impact your MPG. If you want excellent fuel economy, all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data offers better choices.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the AMG S63 Coupe’s fuel economy is squarely in line with expectations for a high-performance GT car. The BMW M8 Competition Coupe, for example, achieves a similar 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, landing it very close to the S63. The Porsche 911 Turbo S comes in at around 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway, highlighting that even sports cars with smaller engines can still struggle to deliver impressive figures when performance is prioritized. The comparison matters because these vehicles represent the competitive set, each offering a unique interpretation of high-performance grand touring. Buyers choosing between these models consider a wider range of factors than just MPG. However, looking at AMG MPG across all years helps to get a sense of how different AMG platforms perform.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the AMG S63 isn’t designed for maximum economy, adjustments can be made to reduce overall fuel consumption. Resist the temptation to constantly accelerate hard, as this is the biggest drain on fuel in a high-powered car like this. Smooth, progressive acceleration will help keep MPG numbers respectable.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check tire pressures regularly, especially with seasonal temperature changes.

Use the car’s driving modes intelligently. Select “Comfort” or “Eco” when cruising on the highway, and resist the urge to use “Sport” or “Sport+” unless you really intend to exploit the car’s performance. Those modes reprogram the transmission for more aggressive shifting, which uses more fuel.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Modern engines are designed to be efficient when running, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Plan your trips efficiently to avoid stop-and-go traffic and unnecessary detours. Routing yourself through areas with lighter traffic flow can make a noticeable difference in overall fuel consumption, as less time spent idling and accelerating means better overall MPG.