In an automotive landscape increasingly dominated by hybrid powertrains and fuel-efficient small engines, it is easy to assume that all modern sedans are designed with economical travel in mind. However, beneath the surface of innovation, a distinct segment of the market continues to prioritize unbridled power, expansive luxury, and exhilarating performance, often at the expense of fuel efficiency. This divergence creates a clear divide: on one side are the ‘quiet champs’ that sip fuel with remarkable restraint, and on the other, the ‘loud guzzlers’ that consume it with an almost unapologetic appetite. Understanding where these models stand is critical for any consumer, especially commuters, looking to make informed decisions that align with both their driving preferences and their long-term financial and environmental considerations.
For the daily commuter, the choice of vehicle extends far beyond initial purchase price or aesthetic appeal. Fuel economy plays a pivotal role in the ongoing cost of ownership, directly impacting weekly budgets and the frequency of inconvenient trips to the gas station. While many prioritize efficiency, a notable portion of the market values raw power, prestige, or a blend of both, often leading them towards sedans with formidable engines and luxurious appointments. These vehicles, while offering an unparalleled driving experience or a cocoon of comfort, come with specific fuel economy specifications that can significantly influence a driver’s financial outlay over time. It is precisely these specifications, revealed by agencies and through manufacturers’ own data, that warrant closer inspection.
This in-depth article aims to separate fact from assumption, providing a rigorous, data-driven look at some of the most gas-guzzling sedans currently available. Drawing exclusively from the provided context, we will scrutinize the reported fuel economy figures and relevant engineering details of these vehicles. Our objective is to furnish consumers with clear, actionable insights, enabling them to comprehend the practical implications of selecting a high-consumption sedan. By examining key models, we offer a comprehensive overview that can guide purchasing decisions, ensuring that buyers are fully aware of the fuel costs associated with their preferred blend of performance, luxury, and driving dynamics.
1. **2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing**Standing as a formidable testament to American engineering and a particular kind of automotive passion, the 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing holds a unique and increasingly rare position in the market. It is proudly hailed as “America’s last manual transmission, rear-wheel-drive sedan,” a designation that immediately places it in a category of its own. This isn’t merely a performance car; it’s a statement, a nod to a “dying breed” of driver-focused machines that emphasize direct engagement and visceral feedback over ubiquitous automation.
At the heart of this powerful sedan is a hand-built supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, a masterpiece of internal combustion that is engineered for one primary purpose: delivering immense power. This formidable powerplant cranks out a staggering “668 horsepower,” an output figure that places the CT5-V Blackwing firmly in the realm of super sedans. Such immense power translates directly into exhilarating acceleration and dynamic driving capabilities, appealing to enthusiasts who prioritize outright performance and a thrilling experience behind the wheel above all else.
However, this exceptional performance comes with an expected, yet notable, trade-off in fuel efficiency. The official figures confirm what its specifications suggest: the 2024 Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing delivers “dismal fuel economy.” Specifically, it achieves “just 15 mpg combined with the six-speed manual.” For commuters, this figure underscores a significant ongoing cost. Daily drives, especially in stop-and-go traffic, will see frequent visits to the fuel pump, reflecting the vehicle’s design philosophy that prioritizes output and driver engagement over economical operation. This fact is a critical consideration for any prospective owner assessing the long-term practicality of such a high-performance machine.
The CT5-V Blackwing, therefore, is not a sedan for the frugal or the purely practical commuter. It is designed for those who cherish the art of driving, who appreciate the mechanical symphony of a supercharged V8, and who are willing to invest significantly in fuel to experience that level of engagement and performance. Its low combined MPG is an inherent characteristic of its high-octane personality, a conscious choice made by Cadillac to deliver an uncompromised driving experience for a niche but dedicated audience.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: Cadillac CT5
Caption: 2024 CT5-V
Manufacturer: General Motors
Production: November 2019–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Assembly: Lansing, Michigan,SAIC-GM
Designer: Josh Thurber,
Class: Mid-size,luxury car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Platform: GM Alpha platform
Related: Chevrolet Camaro (sixth generation),Cadillac CT4
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout,FMR layout
Engine: ubl
Transmission: Tremec TR-6060 transmission,Ford-GM 10-speed automatic transmission
Wheelbase: 116.0 in
Abbr: on (Luxury RWD)
Length: {{convert,193.8,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Width: 74.1 in
Height: {{convert,57.2,in,mm,0,abbr=on
Weight: 3660 lb
Predecessor: Cadillac CTS
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles with short description, Cadillac vehicles
Summary: The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury car manufactured and marketed by General Motors under the Cadillac brand since 2019. It is the replacement for the Cadillac CTS.
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Brand: Cadillac Model: CT5-V Blackwing
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
Read more about: Beyond the Hype: The 15 Overpriced Cars and Brands That Experts Say You Should Absolutely Avoid in 2024-2025
2. **2025 BMW M5 Competition**The 2025 BMW M5 Competition embodies the pinnacle of high-performance luxury sedans, seamlessly blending sophisticated German engineering with brute force. It is characterized by its “twin-turbocharged fury” and “all-wheel-drive precision,” a combination that promises not just speed, but also exceptional handling and control. This vehicle stands as an “ultimate sports sedan,” a testament to BMW’s M division’s relentless pursuit of automotive perfection, designed to dominate both the racetrack and the open road with equal measure of confidence and aggression.
Under the hood, the M5 Competition is powered by a robust “4.4-liter V8 engine.” This potent V8, coupled with its advanced twin-turbocharging system, propels the sedan with an urgency that defines its character. The car’s description as one that “treats gas stations like pit stops” is a vivid acknowledgment of its thirst for fuel, directly correlating its high-performance design with a substantial consumption rate. It’s a machine built for rapid, sustained power delivery, and that capability requires a significant and constant supply of gasoline.
From a commuter’s perspective, the fuel economy figures are a crucial data point. The EPA ratings for the 2025 BMW M5 Competition are notably low, reflecting its performance orientation. It achieves “12 mpg city and 17 mpg highway,” which ultimately pairs for a combined “fuel economy of 14 mpg.” These figures indicate that daily commutes, particularly those involving urban driving, will incur substantial fuel expenses. This M5 is clearly not engineered for efficiency; rather, its design prioritizes the delivery of an exhilarating driving experience, characterized by immense power and dynamic responsiveness, for which fuel consumption is a secondary concern.
Consequently, the M5 Competition appeals to a specific demographic of buyers: those who demand the highest echelons of performance and luxury from their sedan and are fully prepared for the associated running costs. Its advanced all-wheel-drive system and twin-turbo V8 engine deliver a driving sensation few vehicles can match, making it a compelling, albeit expensive to fuel, proposition for enthusiasts. The 14 mpg combined figure serves as a clear indicator of the investment required to regularly unleash the full potential of this ultimate sports sedan, making it a powerful statement of priorities for its owner.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: BMW M5
Caption: F90 M5 (left) and E28 M5 (right)
Manufacturer: BMW M
Production: 1984–present
Class: Executive car
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,(1984–1995, 1998–2016)
Related: BMW 5 Series,BMW M6
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All Wikipedia articles written in British English
Summary: The BMW M5 is a super high-performance variant of the BMW 5 Series marketed under the BMW M sub-brand. It is considered an iconic vehicle in the sports saloon category. The M5 has always been produced in the saloon (sedan, US English) body style, but in some countries the M5 has also been available as an estate/touring (wagon, US English) from 1992 to 1995, from 2006 to 2010, and since 2024.
The first M5 model was hand-built beginning in late 1984 on the E28 535i chassis with a modified engine from the M1 that made it the fastest production saloon at the time. M5 models have been produced for every generation of the 5 Series since 1984, with occasional gaps in production (1995 to 1998, 2023 to 2024).
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Brand: BMW Model: M5 Competition
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
Read more about: Unpacking the ‘M’: A Deep Dive into BMW’s Motorsport Heritage and Ultimate Driving Machines
3. **2024 BMW M8 Gran Coupe**The 2024 BMW M8 Gran Coupe challenges traditional definitions of a sedan, signaling a distinct shift in automotive design philosophy. While it features “Four doors,” these do not automatically render it a conventional sedan in the classic sense. Instead, BMW’s “Gran Coupe” classification is indicative of its unique styling, which prominently features a “low, sloping roofline that prioritizes style over practicality.” This design choice elevates aesthetics and aerodynamic fluidity, distinguishing it from more utilitarian four-door vehicles and firmly planting it in the realm of high-performance luxury coupes with expanded cabin access.
Despite its sleek and elegant profile, the M8 Gran Coupe is fundamentally a high-performance machine. It is engineered to deliver breathtaking speed and dynamic capabilities, aligning with its M badging. The context highlights its impressive performance potential, stating that “With the optional Driver’s Package, this rocket reaches a limited top speed of 190 mph.” This emphasizes that underneath its stylish exterior lies a powertrain and chassis tuned for extreme velocities, catering to drivers who demand top-tier performance from their luxury vehicle.
In line with its focus on high performance and sophisticated styling, the M8 Gran Coupe is explicitly noted to have “low fuel efficiency.” Although the provided context does not offer a specific miles per gallon (MPG) figure for this particular model, its inclusion among other known gas guzzlers and its performance characteristics strongly imply significant fuel consumption. For commuters, the absence of an exact number does not diminish the expectation of high running costs, as high-speed capabilities and a powerful engine configuration typically correlate with a substantial thirst for fuel, a factor that must be weighed when considering this type of vehicle for daily use.
Ultimately, the 2024 BMW M8 Gran Coupe targets a discerning buyer who seeks a blend of avant-garde design, unparalleled luxury, and supercar-level performance, and who views fuel economy as a secondary consideration. Its focus on style and extreme speed, rather than practical efficiency, makes it an appealing choice for those unburdened by frequent fuel stops. The “low fuel efficiency” is an inherent characteristic of its design, reinforcing its identity as a vehicle that sacrifices pedestrian concerns for an extraordinary driving experience, embodying a fusion of art and power on wheels.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: BMW M8 (F91/F92/F93)
Manufacturer: BMW M
Production: July 2019–present
Assembly: BMW Group Plant Dingolfing
Designer: Marcus Syring, Jacek Pepłowski
Class: Grand tourer
BodyStyle: ubl
Related: BMW 8 Series (G14),BMW XM
Engine: BMW N63#S63B44T4
Transmission: ZF 8HP transmission,Automatic_transmission#Hydraulic_automatic_transmissions
Wheelbase: F91/F92: {{convert,2822,mm,0,abbr=on
Abbr: on
Length: unbulleted list
Width: {{convert,1907,-,1943,mm,in,1,abbr=on
Height: unbulleted list
Weight: unbulleted list
Predecessor: BMW M6#F06/F12/F13 M6 (2012–2018),BMW i8
ModelYears: 2019–2025
Categories: Articles with short description, BMW vehicles, Cars introduced in 2019, Commons category link is on Wikidata, Convertibles
Summary: The BMW M8 is the high-performance version of the BMW 8 Series (G15) marketed under the BMW M sub-brand.
Introduced in June 2019, the M8 was initially produced in the 2-door convertible (F91 model code) and 2-door coupe (F92 model code) body styles. A 4-door sedan (F93 model code, marketed as ‘Gran Coupe’) body style was added to the lineup in October 2019. The M8 is powered by the BMW S63 twin-turbocharged V8 engine shared with the BMW M5 (F90).
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Brand: BMW Model: M8 Gran Coupe
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
Read more about: Unpacking the ‘M’: A Deep Dive into BMW’s Motorsport Heritage and Ultimate Driving Machines
4. **2024 Mercedes-AMG E63 S**The 2024 Mercedes-AMG E63 S represents a significant moment in the evolution of high-performance luxury sedans, marking “the final chapter for pure gasoline V8 power in Mercedes-AMG’s E-Class lineup.” This declaration underscores its status not just as a powerful vehicle, but also as a collector’s item and a historical landmark, offering a last opportunity to experience a naturally aspirated V8 engine in its purest form within this celebrated series. Its presence on the market is a nod to a disappearing era of unadulterated engine power, making it particularly appealing to purists and enthusiasts.
Powering this iconic sedan is a formidable “twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8” engine. This engineering marvel is capable of delivering an astounding “603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque,” figures that speak volumes about its breathtaking acceleration and immense pulling power. Such output transforms the E63 S into a truly dynamic machine, offering a driving experience that is both intensely exhilarating and incredibly refined. The combination of twin-turbocharging and a robust V8 ensures that power is readily available across the rev range, making every drive an event.
Predictably, with such a focus on high performance and raw power, “its consumption rate takes a backseat” when it comes to fuel efficiency. The official figures confirm this, with the E63 S achieving “16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.” These numbers, while perhaps not as dramatically low as some exotic supercars, are still indicative of significant fuel consumption for a sedan, especially when compared to its more economical counterparts. For the commuter, these figures translate into frequent trips to the gas station and a higher ongoing operational cost, reflecting the vehicle’s priority on performance over frugality.
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG E63 S appeals to drivers who desire a harmonious blend of luxurious comfort, sophisticated technology, and unyielding V8 performance, understanding that this comes with a certain fuel economy trade-off. It’s a statement vehicle, offering a visceral driving experience and a connection to a specific lineage of AMG engineering. The E63 S stands as a testament to Mercedes-AMG’s capability to deliver a potent, desirable, and ultimately fuel-thirsty luxury sedan, embodying the essence of high-performance driving for those willing to accept its energetic appetite for gasoline.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: Mercedes-AMG GmbH
Logo: File:AMG logo.svg
Type: Subsidiary
Fate: DaimlerChrysler
Foundation: Burgstetten
Founders: Hans Werner Aufrecht,Erhard Melcher
LocationCity: Affalterbach
LocationCountry: Germany
AreaServed: Worldwide
KeyPeople: Philipp Schiemer (Chairman of the Board)
Industry: Automotive industry
Products: High performance automobiles
Services: Research and development
NumEmployees: ~2,900
Parent: Mercedes-Benz
Homepage: www.mercedes-amg.com
Categories: 1967 establishments in West Germany, 24 Hours of Le Mans teams, ADAC GT Masters teams, All articles with dead external links, All articles with vague or ambiguous time
Summary: Mercedes-AMG GmbH, commonly known as AMG (Aufrecht, Melcher, Großaspach), is the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG. AMG independently hires engineers and contracts with manufacturers to customize Mercedes-Benz AMG vehicles. The company has its headquarters in Affalterbach, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.
AMG was originally an independent engineering firm specializing in performance improvements for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. DaimlerChrysler AG took a controlling interest in 1999, then became the sole owner of AMG in 2005. Mercedes-AMG GmbH is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz AG, which is in turn owned by the Mercedes-Benz Group.
AMG models typically have more aggressive looks, higher performance, better handling, better stability and more carbon fibre than their regular Mercedes-Benz counterparts. AMG models are typically the most expensive and highest-performing variant of each Mercedes-Benz class. AMG has also made special variants of some Mitsubishi and Honda models.
AMG variants are usually badged with two numerals, as opposed to regular Mercedes-Benz vehicles, which have three (e.g. “E 63” as opposed to “E 350”). The numerals do not always indicate engine size, but are rather a tribute to earlier heritage cars, such as the 300 SEL 6.3 litre. For example, newer-model AMG V8s such as the E 63 actually have 4.0L V8s.
The world’s first stand-alone Mercedes-AMG dealership, AMG Sydney, was opened in Sydney, Australia in 2018.
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Brand: Mercedes-AMG Model: E63 S
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
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5. **2024 Rolls-Royce Ghost**The 2024 Rolls-Royce Ghost embodies the zenith of ultra-luxury, presenting an automotive experience where lavishness and sophisticated engineering converge. Its very presence on the road signifies an uncompromising commitment to opulence, comfort, and an almost ethereal quietude. However, this pursuit of unparalleled luxury and refined power undeniably comes with a specific operational characteristic that is crucial for prospective owners, particularly when considering long-term running costs.
Beneath its exquisite hood lies a massive 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V12 engine, a powerhouse meticulously engineered to deliver seamless, effortless propulsion. This formidable powerplant produces an impressive 563 horsepower, ensuring that the Ghost moves with an authoritative grace, capable of rapid acceleration when called upon. Such a high-displacement, twin-turbocharged V12 is inherently designed for prodigious output and smooth delivery, characteristics that inevitably demand a substantial fuel supply.
Indeed, this ultra-luxury sedan exhibits a fuel economy profile that reflects its engineering priorities. The Rolls-Royce Ghost achieves only 12 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway, culminating in a combined fuel economy of 14 mpg. For any commuter, these figures represent a significant ongoing expenditure, translating into frequent and costly stops at the gas station. This consumption rate is a direct consequence of the vehicle’s size, weight, and the immense power generated by its V12 engine.
Ultimately, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Ghost is designed for a clientele for whom fuel costs are a secondary consideration, overshadowed by the desire for the pinnacle of automotive luxury and performance. Its low combined MPG is not a design flaw but an inherent trade-off for its exclusive attributes, making it a compelling, albeit thirsty, choice for those prioritizing an unmatched level of comfort, prestige, and effortless power in their daily drives.
Read more about: Unveiling the Unseen: Masterful Hidden Messages and Ingenious Features, From Automotive Marvels to Clever Campaigns
6. **2024 Genesis G90**The 2024 Genesis G90 positions itself as a strong contender in the full-size luxury sedan segment, offering a compelling blend of sophisticated design, premium features, and refined performance. It provides consumers with a choice between two distinct powertrain options, allowing buyers to tailor their driving experience and, significantly, their vehicle’s fuel consumption profile to their specific preferences and priorities.
The base model of the G90 is equipped with a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, which delivers a commendable balance of power and efficiency for a vehicle in its class. This configuration achieves an estimated 18 mpg in city driving and 26 mpg on the highway. These figures, while not groundbreaking for the broader sedan market, are respectable within the realm of large luxury vehicles and represent a more economical choice for daily commuting within the G90 lineup.
However, for those seeking enhanced performance, an available upgrade to a more potent 5.0-liter V8 engine is offered. Opting for this larger engine, while providing increased power and perhaps a more traditional luxury sedan feel, results in a notable decrease in fuel efficiency. Specifically, the 5.0-liter V8 variant sees efficiency drop to 15 mpg in city conditions and 23 mpg on the highway, signifying a more substantial draw on the fuel budget.
For commuters evaluating the 2024 Genesis G90, the choice of engine is a critical factor influencing long-term operating costs. While the V6 offers a more balanced approach to fuel economy, the V8 variant, despite its performance benefits, demands a clear understanding of its higher fuel consumption. This decision requires weighing the desire for increased power against the practical implications of more frequent and expensive fuel stops, ensuring an informed purchase that aligns with both driving enjoyment and financial planning.
Car Model Information: 2024 Genesis G90 3.5T e-SC
Name: Genesis G90
Manufacturer: Genesis Motor
Production: 2015–present
ModelYears: 2017–present
Class: Full-size car,luxury car
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Hyundai Equus
Categories: All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Korean-language sources (ko), Cars of Russia
Summary: The Genesis G90 (Korean: 제네시스 G90) is a full-size car manufactured since 2015 by the South Korean company Genesis, the luxury division of Hyundai Motor Company. It is the flagship model of the Genesis lineup. A four-door sedan, the G90 is the successor of the Hyundai Equus and was known as the Genesis EQ900 in South Korea from 2015 to 2019.
The G90 is the first flagship sedan introduced by the Genesis brand. The first generation was released in December 2015, and it went on sale in North America, Russia, and the Middle East in the second half of 2016. It began development in 2012, and was developed over a period of four years, with approximately 1,200 dedicated researchers working on the design and mass production stages. In November 2018, the facelifted EQ900 went on sale in the Korean market, and from this model onwards, it was also sold in Korea under the name G90.
The current model is the second generation released in 2021. In order to reduce the thickness of the headlamps and the size of the low beam lamps, the micro lens array (MLA) technology was introduced to cross-arrange the low beams, daytime running lights, turn signals, and high beams. The second generation is divided into a regular model and a Long Wheelbase (LWB) model, and the G90L has not currently been released.
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Brand: Genesis Model: G90
Price: $69,085 Mileage: 1,046 mi.
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7. **2024 Bentley Flying Spur W12**The 2024 Bentley Flying Spur W12 stands as a testament to unparalleled British craftsmanship and engineering prowess, marrying hand-stitched luxury with formidable performance. This vehicle epitomizes the grand touring sedan, designed to transport its occupants in supreme comfort and speed, yet its impressive capabilities come with a candid acknowledgment of its significant fuel appetite, a factor of utmost importance for any discerning consumer.
Central to the Flying Spur’s commanding presence is its magnificent W12 engine, a technological marvel that underscores Bentley’s commitment to power. This twelve-cylinder powerhouse generates an astounding 626 horsepower, paired with mountain-moving torque, ensuring that the sedan accelerates with immense force and maintains effortless cruising speeds. The engineering behind such a high-output engine is inherently designed for performance, directly influencing its operational characteristics.
As anticipated for a vehicle of this caliber and power, the fuel consumption rates are notably high. The 2024 Bentley Flying Spur W12 delivers an abysmal 12 mpg in city driving and 19 mpg on the highway. These figures underscore the vehicle’s design philosophy, which prioritizes unbridled power and sumptuous luxury over fuel frugality. Furthermore, its substantial fuel tank capacity of 90 liters (23.8 gallons) suggests that, despite its size, frequent refills will be a regular occurrence for those using it for daily commutes or long journeys.
For commuters considering a vehicle of this stature, the economic reality of its fuel consumption is a paramount consideration. The Flying Spur W12 makes no concessions to efficiency, offering an exclusive experience where the sheer cost of fuel is part of the investment in extraordinary luxury and performance. Buyers are, therefore, making a clear choice to prioritize an exceptional driving and passenger experience, understanding and accepting the considerable fuel budget required to power this British masterpiece.
Read more about: The 10 Most Regrettable New Cars to Buy Now: A Deep Dive into High Repair Costs and Ownership Burdens
8. **2024 Lexus LS 500**The 2024 Lexus LS 500 maintains its position as a full-size luxury sedan, distinguished by its meticulous focus on comfort and refinement, aiming to deliver a serenely opulent driving experience. In a market where transmission efficiency is a key engineering battleground, Lexus has notably opted for an unusual 10-speed automatic, explicitly chosen for “efficiency optimization.” This technical detail highlights an intentional effort by the manufacturer to enhance fuel economy within the confines of its luxury segment.
Despite this advanced transmission design, the LS 500’s fundamental architecture as a substantial, full-size luxury sedan plays a pivotal role in its overall fuel consumption. The vehicle is inherently heavy, a characteristic that arises from its robust construction, extensive sound deadening, and a wealth of luxurious amenities. Its design philosophy clearly “tends to prioritize comfort and refinement over lightweight dynamics,” which naturally contributes to a higher energy demand to move its mass.
Therefore, while the 10-speed automatic transmission works to optimize fuel use given the vehicle’s parameters, the substantial weight and the prioritization of a supremely comfortable and refined ride inherently contribute to a higher fuel demand. This intrinsic design places the LS 500 among sedans with notable fuel consumption when viewed against the broader spectrum of available vehicles, justifying its inclusion in a discussion of gas-guzzling models, even without a specific MPG figure provided in the direct comparative list.
For prospective buyers and commuters, this means that while Lexus has engineered for optimal fuel use within its segment, the vehicle’s luxurious heft and comfort-focused design dictate that it will not rival the efficiency of lighter, more performance-oriented or smaller sedans. Consumers must weigh the LS 500’s plush comfort, advanced technology, and powertrain refinements against the practical reality of its operational fuel costs, which will be higher than more modest vehicles, to make an informed purchasing decision.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: Lexus LS
Caption: Lexus LS 500
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Celsior (Japan, 1989–2006)
Production: May 1989 – present
ModelYears: 1990–present
Assembly: Tahara, Aichi
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Categories: 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Lexus LS (Japanese: レクサス・LS, Hepburn: Rekusasu LS) is a series of full-size luxury sedans that have served as the flagship model of Lexus, the luxury division of Toyota, since 1989. For the first four generations, all LS models featured V8 engines and were predominantly rear-wheel-drive. In the fourth generation, Lexus offered all-wheel-drive, hybrid, and long-wheelbase variants. The fifth generation changed to using a V6 engine with no V8 option, and only one length was offered.
As the first model developed by Lexus, the LS 400 debuted in January 1989 with the second generation debuting in November 1994. The LS 430 debuted in January 2000 and the LS 460/LS 460 L series in 2006. A domestic-market version of the LS 400 and LS 430, badged as the Toyota Celsior (Japanese: トヨタ・セルシオ, Hepburn: Toyota Serushio), was sold in Japan until the Lexus marque was introduced there in 2006. In 2006 (for the 2007 model year), the fourth generation LS 460 debuted the first production eight-speed automatic transmission and an automatic parking system. In 2007, V8 hybrid powertrains were introduced on the LS 600h/LS 600h L sedans.
Development of the LS began in 1983 as the F1 project, the code name for a secret flagship sedan. At the time, Toyota’s two existing flagship models were the Crown and Century models – both of which catered exclusively for the Japanese market and had little global appeal that could compete with international luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Jaguar. The resulting sedan followed an extended five-year design process at a cost of over US$1 billion and premiered with a new V8 engine and numerous luxury features. The Lexus LS was intended from its inception for export markets, and the Lexus division was formed to market and service the vehicle internationally. The original LS 400 debuted to strong sales and was largely responsible for the successful launch of the Lexus marque.
Since the start of production, each generation of the Lexus LS has been manufactured in the Japanese city of Tahara, Aichi. The name “LS” stands for “Luxury Sedan”, although some Lexus importers have preferred to define it as “Luxury Saloon”. The name “Celsior” is taken from Latin word “celsus”, meaning “lofty” or “elevated”.
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Brand: Lexus Model: LS 500
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
Read more about: From Seamless Drives to Software Snafus: Unpacking the Digital Divide in 10 Brand-New Cars
9. **2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500**The 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 continues its legacy as a benchmark for luxury sedans, seamlessly integrating cutting-edge technology with an unrivaled sense of opulence. Its interior is dominated by a massive 12.8-inch OLED display, which serves as the hub for the MBUX infotainment system, creating a digital command center that redefines driver and passenger interaction. Beyond its technological prowess, the S500 also offers opulent rear legroom, underscoring its commitment to passenger comfort.
Notably, the 2024 S500 is equipped as a mild hybrid, a design choice typically aimed at improving fuel efficiency through electric motor assistance. This system helps to manage the demands of a powerful engine and the extensive array of features found in a full-size luxury sedan. While the integration of mild-hybrid technology suggests an effort towards better economy, the S500’s overall size, weight, and the comprehensive suite of luxury features it carries still contribute to a significant energy requirement.
Despite its mild hybrid designation, the S-Class S500 achieves a fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. While these figures might seem adequate for a large luxury vehicle, they position it among sedans with higher consumption when compared to the most fuel-efficient models on the market, particularly for a vehicle incorporating hybrid technology. For commuters, these numbers translate to a substantial ongoing fuel expense that should be factored into the total cost of ownership.
Ultimately, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz S-Class S500 appeals to buyers who demand the pinnacle of luxury, technological innovation, and passenger comfort, and who perceive fuel economy as a secondary, albeit acknowledged, consideration. Its blend of high-end features and a mild hybrid system still results in a fuel consumption rate that places it among vehicles that demand a notable portion of the commuter’s budget for gasoline, making it an informed choice for those prioritizing luxury and performance.
Car Model Information: 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0T SE
Name: Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Manufacturer: ubl
Production: 1954–present (S-Class nomenclature adopted since 1972)
Class: Full-size luxury car
BodyStyle: Sedan (car)
Related: Mercedes-Benz CL-Class,Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class,Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Predecessor: Mercedes-Benz W187
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Mercedes-Benz S-Class, formerly known as “special class” (German: “Sonderklasse”, abbreviated as “S-Klasse”), is a series of full-sized luxury sedans and coupés produced by the German automaker Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is the designation for top-of-the-line Mercedes-Benz models and was officially introduced in 1972 with the W116, and has remained in use ever since. The S-Class is the flagship vehicle for Mercedes-Benz, being positioned above the other Mercedes-Benz models.
The S-Class has debuted many of the company’s latest innovations, including drivetrain technologies, interior features, and safety systems (such as the first seatbelt pretensioners). The S-Class has ranked as the world’s best-selling luxury sedan. In automotive terms, Sonderklasse refers to “a specially outfitted car.” Although used colloquially for decades, following its official application in 1972, six generations of officially named S-Klasse sedans have been produced.
In 1981, the two-door, four-seat S-Class, designated as SEC, was introduced, sharing the petrol V8 engines with its four-door version, W126. After the introduction of a new nomenclature scheme, SEC was simply renamed as S-Class Coupé. For the 1996 model year, the coupé was separated from the S-Class line and named as new CL-Class (in line with other two-door models: CLK, SL, and SLK); however, the CL-Class was reintegrated into the S-Class model line (same with CLK becoming E-Class Coupé and Cabriolet). The first-ever S-Class convertible since 1972, internally named A217, was introduced and became a one-generation model only. After the end of W222 production in 2020, the successors to the C217 coupé and A217 convertible are not planned, citing the low demand for those models and stronger demand for SUV models.
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Brand: Mercedes-Benz Model: S-Class S500
Price: $21,000 Mileage: 37,875 mi.
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Our in-depth analysis of these high-performance and ultra-luxury sedans reveals a clear pattern: a trade-off where unbridled power, expansive comfort, and sophisticated technology often come at the expense of fuel efficiency. For commuters navigating today’s diverse automotive landscape, understanding these consumption rates is not merely a technical detail but a crucial component of informed decision-making. Whether it’s the visceral thrill of a supercharged V8 or the serene embrace of a hand-stitched interior, each of these vehicles makes a definitive statement about its priorities. While they may require more frequent visits to the pump, they offer an undeniable blend of prestige and driving experience. Consumers should weigh these compelling attributes against the practical realities of fuel costs to select a vehicle that truly aligns with their values, budget, and daily driving needs, ensuring that their choice is as sustainable for their wallet as it is satisfying on the road.
