While 22 MPG combined might not be the biggest selling point of the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG C43 4matic, a buyer considers it. This isn’t a Prius; it’s a luxury performance sedan with an AMG badge. It promises engaging driving and a refined ownership experience, and those priorities are reflected in the fuel consumption. The buyer knows performance has a price, and they’ve planned for it. They appreciate the technological advancements that allow for performance and acceptable fuel economy to coexist, even if stellar efficiency isn’t the main goal.

City and highway performance

The AMG C43 gets 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects the stop-and-go of city driving, which strains fuel efficiency, especially in turbocharged engines. The highway number shows the engine’s efficiency when cruising at consistent speeds. The nine-speed automatic transmission is key here, keeping the engine at lower RPMs on the highway, improving fuel economy. However, aggressive acceleration and frequent overtaking, common behaviors for C43 drivers, will decrease that 26 MPG figure. It’s a car that encourages assertive driving, which always hurts fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 AMG C43 at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split evenly between city and highway driving, and assumes average national fuel prices. This is an estimate. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the type of fuel you use (premium is recommended), and fuel prices in your area. Someone who drives in congested city environments with hard acceleration will exceed this. Someone who uses the car for long highway trips may see a lower annual fuel expense. This annual cost is a benchmark for evaluating the C43’s ownership expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard test, real-world fuel economy often differs. The aggressive driving style that the AMG C43 encourages will likely mean a combined MPG closer to 20 MPG for most owners. Shorter trips where the engine doesn’t reach its best operating temperature will also hurt fuel economy. The AMG C43’s engine management system and small engine help it achieve decent efficiency, but it’s still a performance car, translating into fuel consumption. Drivers who prioritize performance will see lower numbers.

How it compares

The AMG C43’s fuel economy puts it in a segment of high-performance compact sedans. The BMW M340i, for example, achieves a combined 26 MPG with its inline-six engine, offering better efficiency. The Audi S4, with its turbocharged V6, manages 24 MPG combined. These differences matter to buyers comparing these vehicles, especially those sensitive to running costs. While the AMG C43 offers a driving experience and design, its fuel economy is slightly behind some competitors. Buyers should also consider AMG MPG across all years to understand the brand’s performance. Before deciding, check all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to see if another model meets your needs better.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive more smoothly. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, anticipate traffic to maintain consistent speeds. The MPG gauge can help you learn how your driving affects fuel consumption. Gentle acceleration and a steady foot on the highway will give you the best results.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on the driver’s side door jamb. This improves fuel economy.

Remove weight. Extra cargo in the trunk or back seats adds weight, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need for driving. The less the engine has to haul, the better the fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing throttle input and improving fuel efficiency. Be mindful of terrain and adjust your speed. In hilly areas, it’s better to disengage cruise control and manage the throttle to avoid unnecessary downshifts.

Use the “Comfort” driving mode when performance isn’t needed. The AMG C43 offers driving modes that adjust engine and transmission settings. “Comfort” mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by optimizing throttle response and shift points. Using this mode when commuting can help save fuel without sacrificing driving enjoyment.