If you want flamboyant style and engaging performance in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4Matic Coupe, expect 19 MPG combined. This car isn’t for the budget-conscious. It’s a statement, a compromise between practicality and outright fun, designed for people who want driving enjoyment and distinctive looks but need some SUV versatility. This is for the buyer who likely already owns a more economical vehicle and considers this a weekend thrill, not a daily commuter.

City and highway performance

The official EPA figures estimate 16 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure is telling. The AMG-tuned 3.0L V6 demands fuel to deliver its 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. Expect higher fuel consumption in stop-and-go traffic where the nine-speed automatic transmission constantly juggles gears. The GLC43 Coupe does better out on the open road, thanks to the tall top gears and relaxed engine speeds at cruising speeds. Even here, the engine’s eagerness to respond to throttle inputs can easily cause fuel economy to dip below the official rating. These figures are a best-case scenario achieved under controlled conditions. Aggressive driving, which this car encourages, will greatly impact its fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

Get ready to pay, because the EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,050 for the 2022 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLC43 4Matic Coupe. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline, which this high-performance engine requires. Given current fuel prices, the actual cost could easily exceed this estimate, especially if you drive hard frequently or live in an area with higher-than-average gas prices. This is a critical factor for potential buyers: can you really afford to feed this performance machine?

Real-world expectations

Advertised MPG numbers are just starting points, not guarantees. If you push the GLC43 Coupe hard, as its AMG pedigree suggests, expect to see numbers below 19 MPG. Conversely, if you use hypermiling techniques (which defeats the purpose of owning an AMG), you might approach the EPA combined figure. Most drivers will be somewhere in between. Remember that factors like driving style, tire pressure, weather, and even the terrain can influence fuel economy. Be realistic about your driving habits and environment when you consider this vehicle.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the AMG GLC43 Coupe isn’t very efficient. The BMW X4 M40i, another performance-oriented coupe SUV, gets a slightly better 21 MPG combined. If you need more practicality with similar performance, the Porsche Macan S achieves nearly identical fuel economy with 19 MPG combined. For those who want to sacrifice some sporting credentials for more savings at the pump, the Audi SQ5 delivers a more respectable 21 MPG combined. These competitors lack the visual drama and distinctive silhouette of the GLC43 Coupe. The buyer choosing the GLC43 is prioritizing style and the AMG brand, often at the expense of pure efficiency. Check out all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data for more comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the nine-speed automatic transmission. In Comfort mode, it will upshift early and often, keeping engine revs low and reducing fuel consumption. Don’t always drive in Sport or Sport+ mode, which prioritize performance over efficiency.

Monitor your tire pressures regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check the sticker on your doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure and maintain it for the best fuel economy and handling.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time consumes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when ready.

Anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking and rapid acceleration. Smooth, consistent driving is key to getting the most fuel efficiency in any vehicle, but especially one like the GLC43 Coupe. Each burst of acceleration drains the fuel tank faster. See AMG MPG across all years for more insight.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a constant speed can help you get better fuel consumption, especially on flat stretches of road. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic and adjust your speed as needed.