No one buys a 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA45 4MATIC for its 22 MPG combined. It’s a pocket rocket, a high-strung, turbocharged missile disguised as a subcompact SUV. Buyers want blistering acceleration, nimble handling, and that unmistakable AMG exhaust note, not maximizing their miles per gallon. Fuel efficiency is a tertiary concern for the person writing a check for this beast.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway for the AMG GLA45. While these figures are theoretically achievable, they require restraint that most owners will find difficult to muster. The 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a marvel of engineering, producing a staggering 382 horsepower. Using that power is incredibly addictive, and every prod of the accelerator will inevitably affect fuel consumption. Expect to see numbers closer to the city figure in mixed driving, especially if you frequently engage Sport+ mode, which sharpens throttle response and holds gears longer.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLA45 4MATIC is $2,650. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline (which is what the GLA45 requires). Keep in mind that fuel prices fluctuate significantly, and your actual fuel cost may vary depending on your driving habits and location.

Real-world expectations

Advertised MPG is one thing, but real-world performance is often quite different. As mentioned earlier, the AMG GLA45’s character encourages spirited driving, which will negatively impact fuel economy. Owners on various online forums often note figures ranging from 18 MPG to 23 MPG in mixed driving. Those who primarily drive on the highway, and who are able to resist constantly accelerating, may see figures closer to the EPA’s 25 MPG estimate. Ultimately, your mileage will vary depending on your driving style and the type of roads you typically travel.

How it compares

Compared to other performance-oriented subcompact SUVs, the AMG GLA45’s fuel economy is roughly in line with expectations. The BMW X2 M35i, for instance, is rated at 23 MPG combined. The Audi SQ3, unavailable in the US market, achieves similar figures in Europe. Even stepping up to a larger performance SUV like the Porsche Macan S (rated at 19 MPG combined) reveals the compromise made for serious performance. Those considering a GLA45 who want significantly better fuel economy might consider the standard GLA250, which offers a more palatable 28 MPG combined, and can be perused with all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Mercedes’ performance division has many options for enthusiasts. To see AMG MPG across all years is a way of understanding the marque’s dedication to performance and (relative) efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While nobody buys an AMG GLA45 for its fuel economy, there are still ways to extract a few extra miles from each gallon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and try to maintain a steady speed on the highway. The GLA45’s eagerness to surge forward at the slightest throttle input makes this challenging, but not impossible.

Use the car’s driving modes. Comfort mode softens the throttle response and optimizes the transmission for fuel efficiency. Switching to Comfort, especially in stop-and-go traffic, can make a noticeable difference in your MPG.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the car increases fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need to improve your MPG. This can even involve basic practices like emptying out the trunk of seldom-used items.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding congested areas and choosing routes with fewer stops and starts can save fuel. Consider using navigation apps that provide real-time traffic updates to avoid traffic jams.