24 MPG combined likely won’t be a major concern for the average Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 4matic Plus buyer. This vehicle isn’t bought primarily for its fuel efficiency. It’s a calculated trade-off, a mix of exciting performance, luxurious features, and a reasonably affordable cost to own. The E53 appeals to successful individuals and families who appreciate both a fun driving experience and everyday usability, knowing that great fuel economy isn’t the main priority.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the E53 gets 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the car’s basic design. In cities, the frequent stopping and starting reduces fuel economy, as the engine works harder to accelerate the relatively heavy car. The 3.0L inline-six, with its electric auxiliary compressor and mild-hybrid system, tries to minimize this, but physics still matters. On the highway, the E53 cruises more efficiently, benefiting from a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission and relatively low engine speeds. The 29 MPG highway number is respectable, allowing long trips without too many fuel stops.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 4matic Plus at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, combining city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price when the EPA tested the car. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you live, and gas prices. Still, the $2,400 provides a useful estimate for potential owners, representing a realistic yearly fuel expense for this performance car. For someone spending six figures on the car itself, this is a manageable ongoing cost. Owners can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on this site.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers give a standard comparison, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who accelerate hard, especially those who often use the E53’s quick acceleration, can expect lower numbers than the EPA estimates. However, drivers who are smooth and careful and use the different driving modes may get results closer to, or even slightly better than, the official numbers. The weather, traffic, and tire pressure also affect fuel consumption. Expect around 20 MPG overall if you enjoy the car’s performance, and closer to the combined number if you drive carefully.

How it compares

The AMG E53’s fuel economy is similar to other performance sedans. The BMW M550i xDrive, a direct competitor, gets about 25 combined MPG, but slightly lower 28 MPG on the highway. An Audi S6 gets around 22 MPG combined. These small fuel economy differences probably won’t decide which car most buyers choose. The decision usually depends on how the cars drive, their styling, and the brand image. If fuel economy is very important, the non-AMG E-Class models with smaller engines offer better efficiency. Browse AMG MPG across all years to view other options within the sub-brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the E53’s ECO driving mode can improve fuel economy, especially in the city. This mode changes the throttle response and shift points to focus on efficiency instead of all-out performance. In this mode, the car makes the accelerator pedal less sensitive and upshifts early, helping you save gas.

Regularly check your tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and keep your tires inflated to that level.

Avoid accelerating and braking hard. Smooth driving saves fuel and makes the ride more comfortable. Anticipate how traffic will flow and keep a steady speed when you can.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopping for more than a minute, it’s usually more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, so restarting saves fuel.

Consider cruise control on the highway. Cruise control keeps a constant speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which saves fuel on long trips. This works best on flat roads with little traffic.