Mercedes-Benz SL550
20 MPG The 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL550 is EPA-rated at 20 MPG combined (17 city / 25 highway). Over 15,000 miles a year that is about 750 gallons, $2400 a year in fuel, or $0.160 per mile at $3.20/gal.
Across its full 2007–2020 run it averages 18.5 MPG, improving by 4 MPG over 13 model years.
Running cost at different fuel prices and mileages
The figure everyone actually wants, and the one the EPA does not publish — because it depends on a fuel price no agency will commit to.
| Fuel price | Per mile | 10,000 mi/yr | 15,000 mi/yr | 20,000 mi/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2.50/gal | $0.125 | $1250 | $1875 | $2500 |
| $3.00/gal | $0.150 | $1500 | $2250 | $3000 |
| $3.20/gal | $0.160 | $1600 | $2400 | $3200 |
| $3.50/gal | $0.175 | $1750 | $2625 | $3500 |
| $4.00/gal | $0.200 | $2000 | $3000 | $4000 |
| $4.50/gal | $0.225 | $2250 | $3375 | $4500 |
| $5.00/gal | $0.250 | $2500 | $3750 | $5000 |
Every model year
| Year | Combined | City | Highway | EPA fuel cost/yr | CO₂ g/mi | Trims |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 20 MPG | 17 | 25 | $3850 | 435 | 1 |
| 2019 | 20 MPG | 17 | 25 | $3850 | 435 | 1 |
| 2018 | 20 MPG | 17 | 25 | $3850 | 442 | 1 |
| 2017 | 20 MPG | 17 | 25 | $3850 | 442 | 1 |
| 2016 | 19 MPG | 16 | 24 | $4050 | 465 | 1 |
| 2015 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3850 | 442 | 1 |
| 2014 | 20 MPG | 18 | 24 | $3850 | 442 | 1 |
| 2013 | 20 MPG | 17 | 25 | $3850 | 448 | 1 |
| 2012 | 17 MPG | 14 | 22 | $4550 | 523 | 1 |
| 2011 | 17 MPG | 14 | 22 | $4550 | 523 | 1 |
| 2009 | 16 MPG | 13 | 21 | $4800 | 555 | 1 |
| 2008 | 16 MPG | 14 | 21 | $4800 | 555 | 1 |
| 2007 | 16 MPG | 13 | 21 | $4800 | 555 | 1 |
Where a model year offered several engines or drivetrains, the figure is the average across all EPA-tested trims that year — the trim count is shown so you can see how much averaging is involved.
How it compares in its class
Among the 105 two seaters models tracked here, the Mercedes-Benz SL550 ranks 46 on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG.
Closest more-efficient alternatives in the same class: Acura NSX Hybrid (21), Honda S2000 (21), Jaguar F-Type S AWD Convertible (21), Jaguar F-Type S AWD Coupe (21), Mercedes-Benz SLK230 Kompressor (21).
Tailpipe CO₂ is rated at 435 grams per mile, which works out to roughly 6.5 tonnes a year at 15,000 miles.
Questions
What MPG does the Mercedes-Benz SL550 get?
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz SL550 is rated at 20 MPG combined by the EPA — 17 city and 25 highway. Across all 13 model years in the database it averages 18.5 MPG, ranging from 16 to 20 depending on year and trim.
How much does a Mercedes-Benz SL550 cost in fuel per year?
At 20 MPG and 15,000 miles a year, it burns about 750 gallons — roughly $2400 a year with fuel at $3.20 a gallon, or $0.160 per mile. The EPA's own published annual figure for the 2020 model is $3850.
Has the Mercedes-Benz SL550 become more efficient over time?
Yes. It has gone from 16 MPG in 2007 to 20 in 2020 — an improvement of 4 MPG, or 25% across 13 model years.
Is the Mercedes-Benz SL550 efficient for its class?
It ranks 46 of 105 in the Two Seaters class on current figures, against a class average of 21.4 MPG. That is 1.4 worse than typical for the class.
EPA test figures from fueleconomy.gov. Cost per mile and annual fuel spend are computed at a reference price of $3.20 per gallon — use your own price. Estimates based on official test figures and average fuel prices. Real-world consumption varies with driving style, load, terrain and maintenance.