At 26 MPG combined, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 4matic Coupe isn’t likely to win any fuel economy awards. This stylish two-door is designed for a specific buyer: one who prioritizes aesthetics and a premium driving experience over saving money at the pump. It delivers respectable, if not outstanding, fuel efficiency for a small luxury coupe with all-wheel drive. The real draw is its design and sporty character.

City and highway performance

The C300 4matic Coupe achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure is adequate, reflecting start-and-stop driving conditions where the 2.0L turbocharged engine works harder. The highway number highlights the effectiveness of the 9-speed automatic transmission, which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, maximizing fuel economy on longer journeys. If your typical driving involves mostly city commutes, expect to be closer to the 23 MPG mark. Those who frequently drive on the highway will likely see numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s 32 MPG estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz C300 4matic Coupe at $2,250. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes the vehicle will be fueled using the national average fuel price. Individual fuel costs may vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. This number is a good starting point for budgeting, but remember that the price of premium fuel can fluctuate quite a bit, so it’s wise to factor in some buffer.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary substantially based on driving style and environmental conditions. The C300 4matic Coupe is sensitive to aggressive driving. Frequent hard acceleration will lower your MPG. Similarly, prolonged idling or consistent use of the air conditioning can negatively impact fuel economy. The all-wheel-drive system improves traction and handling but also adds weight and complexity, which can contribute to slightly lower efficiency compared to a rear-wheel-drive model.

How it compares

When cross-shopping within the luxury coupe segment, it’s helpful to consider how the C300’s fuel economy compares to its rivals. The BMW 430i xDrive Coupe, with its 2.0L turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, achieves a similar 26 MPG combined. The Audi A5 Coupe Quattro, also equipped with a 2.0L turbo and AWD, delivers an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined. These differences are relatively minor and often come down to individual driving habits. For buyers considering a step up in performance, the Mercedes-AMG C43 Coupe prioritizes power over fuel economy, offering significantly quicker acceleration but sacrificing MPG in the process. The choice depends on whether the buyer is willing to trade some fuel efficiency for gains in performance. For more information on all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, see our database.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Adopt a smooth driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will significantly reduce fuel consumption. The C300 4matic Coupe’s engine is responsive, but it doesn’t require excessive throttle input for daily driving. Also, regularly check your tire pressure.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved highway fuel economy. The C300 4matic Coupe’s adaptive cruise control system can further enhance efficiency by automatically adjusting speed to maintain a safe following distance.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. The C300 MPG figures can be improved with this technique. For more information on C300 MPG across all years, see our model information pages.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and reduces fuel efficiency. Avoid carrying around items that aren’t needed for daily use. This is especially true with heavy items in the trunk or back seat, since it effectively increases the C300’s load.

Use the “Eco” driving mode. This mode optimizes the vehicle’s engine and transmission settings for maximum fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce throttle response, it’s an effective way to save fuel during everyday commutes.