The 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT with its 6.2L V8 gets 16 MPG combined, the price to join the modern muscle car club. It’s not a fuel-sipping commuter; it’s a tire-shredding performance machine with retro styling. Owners prioritize horsepower and a visceral driving experience over fuel economy. For them, the gas bill is a normal part of ownership.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the Challenger SRT’s fuel consumption are 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the engine’s thirst, especially in stop-and-go traffic, and the temptation to unleash its power. The highway number is more acceptable. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs on the open road. However, the Challenger’s aerodynamic profile and the power required to move its large frame contribute to higher fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says you’ll face an annual fuel cost of about $3,600 if you drive the 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT 15,000 miles per year. This is based on national average fuel prices when the EPA testing was performed, and the listed MPG figures. Gasoline price changes can significantly impact this number. Those who drive aggressively or live in areas with higher fuel costs could easily exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies depending on driving habits, traffic, and even weather. Challenger SRT owners who often drive fast or live in congested cities will likely see MPG figures close to the city estimate, or lower. Those who mainly use their Challenger for highway cruising may achieve numbers close to or slightly exceeding the 22 MPG highway estimate. The type of fuel also plays a part. Many owners use premium gasoline because it’s recommended for best performance. See CHALLENGER MPG across all years.

How it compares

Competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach 1 achieve a more reasonable 15 MPG city and 24 MPG highway due to its more advanced engine technology. Some Chevrolet Camaro trims with the 6.2L V8 also offer better fuel economy, with some configurations achieving around 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. These numbers aren’t drastically different, but they show that other performance cars balance power and less gas slightly better. For many Challenger SRT buyers, these small MPG gains are less important than the Dodge’s unique styling, powerful engine options, and overall presence. They’re buying the experience more than the fuel efficiency. Compare all Dodge fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2022 Dodge Challenger SRT isn’t known for fuel efficiency, but you can minimize fuel consumption. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking, since they strain the engine and reduce MPG. Use the Challenger’s performance pages to check your driving; you might learn something.

Keep the tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tires and inflate them to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker and not the maximum pressure on the tire.

Service your vehicle on time. Regular maintenance, like oil changes and air filter replacements, ensures the engine runs well and efficiently. A neglected engine will consume more fuel.

Don’t let the engine idle. Modern engines don’t require long warm-up periods. Idling wastes fuel and causes emissions. Start the engine and begin driving gently soon after.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed can help optimize fuel efficiency and reduce throttle inputs. Be mindful of traffic and disengage cruise control when needed.