Hybrid or Diesel? The Most Fuel-Efficient Mercedes-Benz Cars in South Africa
Fuel prices aren’t getting cheaper, so picking the right car matters as much as how you drive it. While full EVs may still be a bridge too far for many, hybrids and diesels offer a smarter middle ground. Mercedes-Benz gives you both options, from the ultra-frugal (but ultra-pricey) S580e plug-in hybrid to the surprisingly economical diesel range. Here are the three most fuel-efficient Mercedes models to keep your fuel bill in check.
In a time where excess appears to be celebrated, many of us still need to be mindful of where our money goes. Even if we've elected to shop on the more premium side of the market, wasting fuel is an unnecessary burden that is best avoided. While driving styles and habits can help you reduce your monthly fuel bill, choosing the right car is even more critical. Electrification helps reduce fuel bills, but many are not yet ready to switch to full-electric vehicles (EV). Hybrids offer the best of both worlds, reducing fuel consumption and removing the anxiety associated with EVs.
Related: Driving tips to improve fuel consumption/efficiency
The Mercedes-Benz range offers petrol, diesel, and a single plug-in hybrid, available in the Mercedes-Benz S580e. We hear what you're saying; we've forgotten about the C63S E Performance and its friends. No, we haven't, but that is a Mercedes-AMG, and is excluded from this list. So which one is the most fuel-efficient, the diesel or the hybrid? Let's find out.
Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Fuel Consumption.
As mentioned, the only plug-in hybrid on offer in South Africa is the S580e. This luxury sedan is powered by a 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine that produces 270 kW and 500 Nm on its own. The electric motors provide an additional 110kW and 440Nm for a combined total of 375kW and 750Nm. Sprightly indeed!
With a fully charged battery, the claimed fuel consumption is 2.1 L/100km on the combined cycle and 8.0-9.0 L/100km without the electrical assistance. While this is great, it's entirely offset by the R3.2 million price tag.
| Model | Claimed Consumption |
| Mercedes-Benz S580e | 2.1 L/100km |
Mercedes-Benz Diesel Fuel Consumption.
Mercedes-Benz has a wide variety of diesel-powered models, ranging from Vito vans to large SUVs, with something for everyone, it seems. Below, you will find the most frugal diesel offerings in each model. Many will share similar figures between trim levels. The most fuel-efficient derivative has been listed only.
| Model | Claimed Consumption |
| Mercedes-Benz Vito 114 CDI panel van Pro auto | 5.8 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz A200d sedan | 4.5 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz CLA220d | 4.4 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLA200d | 5.1 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz C220d | 4.7 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLB220d 4Matic | 5.1 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic | 5.2 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz E220d | 5.0 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLC220d coupe 4Matic | 5.1 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLE300d 4Matic | 6.8 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz V300d | 7.0 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz GLS450d 4Matic | 7.5 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz S350d L | 6.3 L/100km |
| Mercedes-Benz G450d | 9.4 L/100km |
Top 3 Fuel-Efficient Mercedes-Benz Models
Topping the charts for fuel efficiency is the Mercedes-Benz 580e Hybrid: it's hard to beat that 2.1 L/100km claim! However, after that, several diesel models also sip fuel. Here are your top three Mercedes-Benz models to consider if you're looking for something light on fuel with a three-pointed star.
1. Mercedes-Benz S580e: 2.1 L/100km
2. Mercedes-Benz CLA220d: 4.4 L/100km
3. Mercedes-Benz A200d: 4.5 L/100km
