24 MPG combined. Fuel economy probably isn’t a high priority for buyers attracted to the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4matic Coupe. This car prioritizes style and image, while still providing reasonable running costs. The coupe profile sacrifices some practicality compared to the standard GLC SUV, so the slight decrease in fuel economy is part of the cost for its sleek shape.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 GLC300 4matic Coupe are 22 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect stop-and-go traffic compared to consistent cruising speeds. City driving requires the engine to work harder, accelerating and decelerating frequently, which impacts fuel consumption. On the highway, the 9-speed automatic transmission can settle into a higher gear, allowing the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine to operate more efficiently. However, the transmission’s tuning, designed to keep the engine in its powerband, can sometimes prevent it from shifting into the highest gears at lower speeds, reducing some of the highway fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 4matic Coupe at $2,400. 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 at the time of calculation. Mercedes-Benz recommends regular gasoline, so the EPA uses that for its calculations. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and current fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world fuel economy often differs. GLC300 4matic Coupe owners often report figures that fall slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in congested urban areas. Driving style is important, with aggressive acceleration and braking decreasing fuel efficiency. Maintaining consistent speeds and anticipating traffic flow can help drivers get closer to the EPA estimates. The 4matic all-wheel-drive system adds weight, which can slightly reduce fuel economy.

How it compares

The GLC300 Coupe’s fuel economy is in the middle of its class. The BMW X4 xDrive30i, with a similar 2.0L turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive, also gets an EPA-estimated 24 MPG combined. The Audi Q5 Sportback 45 TFSI also achieves a 24 MPG combined rating. The Porsche Macan, offers more performance but its fuel economy drops to around 21 MPG combined. Style or brand prestige could be more important to GLC300 4matic Coupe buyers than fuel economy, but the similar fuel economy across German rivals can be reassuring. Comparing GLC300 MPG across all years might be insightful as well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the GLC300 Coupe’s Eco drive mode. This mode adjusts throttle response and transmission mapping to prioritize fuel efficiency. It might slightly dampen acceleration, but it makes a noticeable difference, especially during city driving. Use it!

Tire pressure is critical for good fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. This is true for all cars, but it bears repeating for the GLC300 Coupe.

Avoid idling unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by turning off the engine outweighs the fuel used to restart it. It also reduces emissions.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid areas with heavy traffic congestion whenever possible. Stop-and-go driving consumes significantly more fuel than consistent cruising. Navigation apps with real-time traffic updates can help you avoid congested areas, improving your fuel efficiency.

Regular maintenance is important for good fuel economy. The GLC300 Coupe needs regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and delivers better fuel economy. You can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.