While 26 MPG combined won’t break any fuel efficiency records, it’s a reasonable trade-off for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz E350. This is a mid-size luxury sedan, not a hybrid or economy car. Buyers often prioritize a smooth ride, elegant interior, and the Mercedes-Benz brand over maximum fuel efficiency. They accept slightly lower MPG for the overall experience a Mercedes-Benz offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the E350 gets 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. The lower city MPG reflects the frequent stops and starts where the engine idles and accelerates more. On the highway, the E350’s 9-speed automatic transmission allows the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder to operate efficiently. While larger engines are available on higher E-Class trims, the base engine provides enough power for most drivers, balancing performance and fuel economy. Understanding these figures helps potential buyers estimate their fuel costs depending on their driving habits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz E350 at $2,250. This calculation uses 15,000 miles per year and current national average fuel prices. This is a good point of comparison when considering the E350’s running costs against other vehicles. Real-world fuel costs will vary depending on driving style, local fuel prices, and the proportion of city versus highway driving. The $2,250 figure is simply the EPA’s standardized estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a useful starting point, actual fuel economy can change. Aggressive driving, extra weight, and using accessories like air conditioning all impact MPG. Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and oil changes, is critical for good fuel efficiency. Since many E350 owners live in suburban areas and frequently drive on highways, achieving more than the EPA’s 31 MPG highway estimate is possible with careful driving. See E350 MPG across all years for data on past model years.

How it compares

The 2023 E350’s fuel economy is competitive among its rivals. The BMW 530i, with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder, achieves about 27 MPG combined. The Audi A6 45 TFSI, also powered by a 2.0L turbo, gets around 28 MPG combined. The Lexus ES 350, with its V6 engine, achieves 26 MPG combined, matching the E350 despite the larger engine. Small differences are important for drivers who prioritize fuel efficiency. Hybrid versions of some competitors offer much better fuel economy, but cost more initially. Buyers considering the entire Mercedes Benz selection can browse all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The E350’s 9-speed automatic transmission is designed for efficiency, so avoid accelerating quickly which causes frequent downshifts. Gradual throttle input helps the transmission stay in higher gears, maximizing fuel economy. Paying attention to traffic flow minimizes braking and maintains consistent speed.

The E350’s “Eco” mode changes vehicle settings for better fuel efficiency, often adjusting throttle response and shift patterns. It may slightly reduce performance, but can improve fuel consumption, especially during city driving. Experiment with different drive modes to balance performance and economy.

Regular maintenance is essential for fuel economy. Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance. Following the recommended service schedule for oil changes and other maintenance keeps the engine running smoothly.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load and reduces fuel economy. Removing unnecessary items lightens the E350 and improves its efficiency, even if the impact is small.