16 MPG combined is what you get with the 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus. This isn’t a vehicle bought by people agonizing over fuel costs. It’s a statement, a blend of strong power, opulent luxury, and undeniable road presence. The fuel economy is simply a factor, a necessary evil to be tolerated rather than a primary concern for the affluent buyer seeking a sledgehammer disguised as a luxurious SUV. They’re buying the hand-built AMG engine, the ferocious acceleration, and the exclusivity, and they know exactly what they’re getting into.

City and highway performance

The EPA numbers reveal a split personality: 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving where the GLE63 S’s considerable weight and the engine’s thirst become readily apparent. The highway number, while not exceptional, is at least attainable with careful throttle control. The nine-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, but there’s no hiding the fact that a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 requires a significant amount of fuel any time it’s working.

Annual fuel cost

The estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz AMG GLE63 S 4matic Plus is $3,600. This figure is calculated by the EPA based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes a national average fuel price, which fluctuates, meaning your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on where you live and current fuel prices. The $3,600 is therefore a benchmark, a clear signal that owning this performance SUV is not for those worried about money, particularly when premium fuel is mandated.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world MPG will vary significantly based on driving style. Frequent use of the accelerator to experience the AMG’s immense power will lead to lower fuel economy, while a more relaxed approach, especially on the highway, might get you closer to the EPA’s 19 MPG estimate. Though let’s be honest, the GLE63 S isn’t bought to toddle around in eco mode. Expect to see numbers closer to the city figure in combined driving if you enjoy even moderate use of the available performance. And if you track it, forget about anything resembling efficiency.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the AMG GLE63 S’s fuel economy is predictably similar, but not identical. The BMW X5 M, with its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8, achieves an EPA-estimated 15 MPG combined. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo, another formidable contender, lands around 17 MPG combined. The Land Rover Range Rover Sport P530 First Edition with its V8 engine also gets around 16 MPG combined. These numbers show a consistent trend: high-performance SUVs with powerful engines are inherently thirsty. The slight variations generally don’t significantly sway purchasing decisions within this segment; the choice often comes down to brand preference, styling, and specific performance characteristics rather than a mile or two per gallon.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While hypermiling the AMG GLE63 S is, frankly, against its spirit, there are a few techniques that can help you eke out slightly better fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The GLE63 S’s heavy curb weight means that it takes a lot of energy to get it moving, so smooth inputs are key.

Take advantage of the adaptive cruise control system on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed helps to minimize fuel consumption. Keep in mind the ECU is often still trying to keep you close the posted speed limits if you set it even slightly above the mark, and this burns more fuel.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Keep an eye on tire pressure and adjust as needed, especially during temperature changes. And use the recommended premium fuel.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute or two. And consider using the auto start/stop system, though on some models this can be too clumsy and negatively affect driving enjoyment, ironically causing the user to accelerate far more once the system restarts it.

Finally, regularly check and replace air filters. A clean air filter ensures that the engine receives the proper amount of air, optimizing combustion and improving fuel economy. An additional option is to check AMG MPG across all years to understand its fuel economy history across model years. You can also use all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data to get a sense of the brand’s overall efficiency.