19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any green awards, and frankly, the people who buy a 2021 Dodge Charger with the 5.7L Hemi V8 aren’t prioritizing lower fuel costs. This is a car bought specifically for its swagger, its readily accessible power, and its unmistakable muscle-car presence. It’s for those who appreciate a roaring exhaust note and the thrill of quick acceleration more than squeezing out every last mile per gallon. Understanding *why* this car exists is key to understanding the acceptable fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The 2021 Dodge Charger 5.7L earns an EPA-estimated 16 MPG in the city. Stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to dip into the Hemi’s ample reserves of power are the culprits. On the highway, the Charger fares noticeably better, achieving 25 MPG. This difference highlights the engine’s improved efficiency at steady cruising speeds, aided by the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission. Expect the best highway mileage on flat ground using cruise control; any significant elevation change will take a bite out of your fuel economy. It’s a substantial improvement over the older 5-speed automatics and helps make long highway trips less painful for your wallet. Anyone comparing CHARGER MPG across all years can see the evolution of its powertrain in action.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Dodge Charger 5.7L at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which, of course, fluctuate. It’s a considerable sum, placing this Charger firmly in the “gas guzzler” category compared to other sedans. Potential buyers should factor this cost into their budget alongside insurance, maintenance, and other ownership expenses. While this cost is significant, the key to this expense is “driving 15,000 miles per year.” If you work from home, or only plan to use your Charger for weekend joyrides, your costs will likely be much lower.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates if you frequently engage in spirited driving, live in a hilly area, or do mostly city driving. Conversely, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds might yield figures closer to, or even slightly above, the 25 MPG highway rating. Tire pressure, proper maintenance (especially air filter replacement) and cargo weight also makes a difference.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2021 Dodge Charger 5.7L’s fuel economy is predictably thirstier. The Chevrolet SS, another rear-wheel-drive sedan with a V8, achieves a similar 16 city / 25 highway. A Ford Mustang GT, while closer to the Charger in spirit, is also comparable around 15 city / 24 highway. Stepping down to a V6-powered Charger improves fuel economy significantly, climbing to around 19 city / 30 highway, but sacrificing a good deal of horsepower. The Chrysler 300S, which shares its platform with the Charger, with the 5.7L V8 also has a similar fuel economy rating, further illustrating that the large engine is simply going to use a lot of fuel. Fuel economy is often a lower priority for those specifically seeking a powerful V8 sedan, but analyzing all Dodge fuel economy data can offer some useful context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly accelerate hard. The Hemi V8 is responsive, and it’s tempting to use all that power, but gentle acceleration will dramatically improve fuel consumption. Consider it a game: can you keep the instantaneous MPG reading as high as possible?

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a steady speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel economy. Also, take advantage of the 8-speed automatic transmission’s higher gears, letting the car do the work efficiently.

Ensure 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 keep it at the recommended level.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo in the trunk or passenger compartment adds weight to the vehicle, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need to carry around regularly.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Ensure your air filter is clean, your spark plugs are in good condition, and your engine oil is changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Minor things like this that are often overlooked add up to make a significant difference.