The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4MATIC has an EPA estimated 16 MPG combined. For buyers who want luxury, power, and a commanding presence, this fuel economy number is acceptable, not a deterrent. This vehicle is not built for ultimate efficiency; it is engineered for effortless long-distance cruising, refinement, and the ability to tow, haul, and transport in comfort, all while protecting its occupants in luxury. Its V8 engine declares its capability and Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to delivering an authentic luxury SUV experience.

City and highway performance

Looking at the EPA data, the 2025 GLS580 4MATIC gets 14 MPG in city driving and 19 MPG on the highway. In urban environments, the GLS580’s heft and the characteristics of its powerful 4.0L twin-turbo V8 mean that stop-and-go traffic will predictably lower fuel economy. However, the mild-hybrid EQ Boost system, acting as an integrated starter-generator, assists during acceleration from a standstill, marginally improving efficiency and, more importantly, providing a very smooth re-start after auto start/stop activation. On the open road, where the 9-speed automatic transmission can settle into its higher gears and the engine operates at lower RPMs, the highway rating of 19 MPG is understandable for a vehicle of this size, power, and aerodynamic profile. It’s here, on long journeys, that the GLS580 truly excels, covering miles with grace and maintaining impressive stability, even at elevated speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS580 4MATIC. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split evenly between city and highway conditions (45% city, 55% highway), and using national average fuel prices for premium gasoline. For the individual or family considering a GLS580, this annual fuel expenditure is typically a footnote in the overall cost of ownership, which includes significant depreciation, insurance, and routine maintenance associated with a flagship luxury vehicle. The decision to acquire a GLS580 is driven by factors beyond the pump; it’s about prestige, performance, safety, and a superlative ownership experience. For specific data, explore GLS580 MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

In real-world driving, owners of the GLS580 4MATIC can typically expect to see figures closely align with, and sometimes slightly vary from, the EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extensive use of features like the powerful climate control system will edge the numbers closer to the lower end of the range. Conversely, drivers with a gentle foot, who spend a significant portion of their time on open highways, might occasionally see figures nudging above the 19 MPG mark. The EQ Boost system also plays a subtle role, not just in improving efficiency, but in delivering power so smoothly that the engine often feels more efficient than its displacement suggests. The character of the vehicle encourages composed driving, which naturally contributes to better real-world fuel economy than if it were constantly pushed to its V8 limits. Discover more about all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site.

How it compares

When stacked against its direct competitors in the full-size luxury SUV segment, the 2025 GLS580 4MATIC’s fuel economy figures are right in line with expectations for a V8 powertrain. The BMW X7 M60i, for instance, with its 4.4L twin-turbo V8, delivers a combined 18 MPG (16 city/20 highway). The Range Rover P530, also with a twin-turbo V8, manages 18 MPG combined (16 city/21 highway). Even the Cadillac Escalade ESV with its larger 6.2L V8 and 10-speed automatic, offers 16 MPG combined (14 city/18 highway). For buyers in this segment, the choice between these vehicles is rarely solely about a 1 or 2 MPG difference. The buyer prioritizes brand loyalty, interior design, infotainment experience, specific driving dynamics, and often, an emotional connection to a particular marque. The GLS580 differentiates itself with its unique blend of traditional Mercedes-Benz luxury, leading-edge technology, and a driving experience that is both supremely comfortable and agile for its size. The slight variations in MPG among these V8-powered giants are marginal when viewed against their commanding purchase prices and overall running costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your GLS580 operates at peak efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the powerful V8 work harder than necessary, so check them regularly, especially before long journeys.

Use the vehicle’s driving modes wisely. While the Sport modes unleash the full potential of the 4.0L engine, Eco or Comfort modes optimize the transmission’s shift points and the accelerator pedal’s responsiveness for greater fuel efficiency, smoothing out your inputs and encouraging a more relaxed driving style.

The GLS580’s adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems can also contribute to efficiency on highways. By maintaining a consistent speed and preventing unnecessary braking and acceleration, these systems allow the V8 to operate in its most efficient RPM range for longer periods.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. While the GLS580 is designed to carry substantial loads, removing heavy items that aren’t needed for your current journey can slightly reduce the effort required from the engine, leading to small but cumulative improvements in fuel economy.

Anticipate traffic flow and practice smooth acceleration and deceleration. Hard braking and rapid acceleration are significant fuel-wasters in any vehicle, but particularly so in a powerful, heavy SUV like the GLS580. A gentle touch on both pedals allows the mild-hybrid system to recover more energy and the V8 to remain in its most efficient operating range.