23 MPG combined won’t make the Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 Coupe a champion of lower fuel costs, but it’s perfectly acceptable for a stylish, performance-oriented coupe with a strong all-wheel-drive system and a turbocharged engine. This isn’t a grocery-getter; it’s a statement. The buyer isn’t prioritizing ultimate efficiency above all else. They want a car that looks good, feels special, and offers thrilling performance, and they’re willing to make a small compromise at the pump to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the AMG E53 Coupe achieves 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the car’s weight and the need to repeatedly accelerate use fuel. However, the smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission and the engine’s stop-start system do their best to reduce the losses. On the open road, at a steady cruising speed, the E53 Coupe reveals its more efficient side, thanks to optimized gear ratios and reduced load on the engine. The highway MPG is where the advanced drivetrain really shines, allowing for relaxed and relatively economical long-distance journeys. And don’t forget, this is with a punchy turbocharged engine offering effortless overtaking ability.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG E53 Coupe at $2,500. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, at current national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and the prevailing gas prices in your area. Individuals residing in areas with higher fuel costs may see this annual estimate increase.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates, especially with performance-oriented vehicles like the AMG E53 Coupe. Enthusiastic drivers who frequently tap into the car’s considerable power reserves will likely see figures closer to the city MPG, if not slightly lower. Conversely, those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and spend a significant amount of time on the highway may be able to match or even slightly exceed the EPA’s highway estimate.

Factors like traffic conditions, weather, and tire pressure also play a role. The E53’s trip computer provides real-time fuel economy data, allowing you to monitor your consumption and adjust your driving habits accordingly.

How it compares

The AMG E53 Coupe occupies a unique space in the market, blending performance and luxury in a stylish package. Competitors like the BMW M440i xDrive Coupe achieve a similar 25 MPG combined, emphasizing how close these performance coupes are. If you want to see all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data, please use the link. Those looking for even higher performance might consider the Audi RS5 Coupe, rated at 21 MPG combined, acknowledging that more power often comes at the expense of efficiency. Conversely, buyers prioritizing fuel economy above all else might consider a non-AMG version of the E-Class Coupe, likely sacrificing some performance but gaining a few MPGs in the process. While the E53 Coupe isn’t the most efficient choice in its class, its blend of performance, style, and technology makes its fuel economy acceptable to its target demographic. You can also review AMG MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the AMG E53’s driving modes. The “Comfort” or “Eco” modes prioritize fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response, shift points, and other parameters. Using these modes during everyday driving can noticeably improve your MPG, whereas Sport or Sport+ modes favor performance at the expense of fuel.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. This is particularly important on a car with wide performance tires like the E53.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Smooth, progressive inputs are key to maximizing fuel economy. Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste energy and dramatically decrease MPG. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible, using the cruise control on highway drives.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods burns fuel without moving the car. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The AMG E53’s engine stop-start system helps with this, automatically shutting off the engine at stoplights, but you can manually turn it off if desired.