The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4matic achieves 16 MPG combined. No one buying a lavish, capable three-row SUV for well over $100,000 expects Prius-level efficiency. This vehicle is built for power, comfort, and making a statement. Fuel economy is a secondary consideration. It’s the price for luxury and performance, and the GLS580 buyer knows that.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway for the GLS580. This is due to the 4.0L twin-turbocharged V8 engine, which generates 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes-Benz’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The GLS580 accelerates quickly for its size, but that comes at the cost of frequent trips to the gas station. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving that hurts large-displacement engines, while the highway number is better due to consistent speeds and less demand on the accelerator.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4MATIC will cost drivers $3,600 in fuel annually. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This is an estimate. Your actual fuel costs can change based on your driving habits, roads, and gasoline prices. Aggressive driving, short trips, and frequent power use will all increase that annual figure.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures offer a baseline, but they rarely perfectly match real-world experiences. Expect numbers below the official ratings, especially in difficult driving conditions. City driving, towing, or a heavy foot will lower your MPG. Long highway drives at consistent speeds may yield figures closer to, or even above, the EPA estimate. Individual results will vary. If you’re curious to see GLS580 MPG across all years, research user-reported data from owners who drive in similar conditions.

How it compares

The GLS580’s fuel economy is behind some of its competitors. The BMW X7 M60i, with a V8 also, gets a similar 17 MPG combined. The Land Rover Range Rover P530, another V8-powered SUV, is in the same range. Even the six-cylinder GLS450 only gets about 3 MPG more combined. For the buyer in this segment, a few miles per gallon is often less important than the engine’s character and performance. Those seeking less gas might consider the Lexus LX 600, which manages around 19 MPG combined, but it lacks the GLS580’s performance and some features.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t exploit the V8’s power constantly. Gentle acceleration and a steady speed are important for maximizing fuel economy, especially in city driving. Driving with a light foot can yield noticeable gains, even in a large vehicle like the GLS580.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn off the engine. The GLS580 features a start/stop system that automatically shuts off the engine at traffic lights, which helps conserve fuel when the vehicle is stopped.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks ensure that your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs optimally.

Minimize cargo weight. Carrying excessive weight adds strain on the engine, leading to increased fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce its overall weight and improve fuel efficiency. You can also find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.