17 MPG combined is what buyers expect from the 2025 Dodge Durango AWD with the 5.7L HEMI V8. It’s an honest, unvarnished number for a vehicle that makes no apologies for its American muscle, its three-row family hauling capability, and its strong towing prowess. This isn’t a crossover designed around efficiency for the sake of efficiency; it’s a traditional SUV in every sense, delivering a driving experience rooted in power rather than parsimony. It’s built for those who understand the trade-offs of a large, V8-powered, all-wheel-drive machine, and they’re perfectly content with the exchange rate.

City and highway performance

The EPA figures show the Durango 5.7L V8 AWD delivers 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the open highway. The city figure, at 14 MPG, is a direct consequence of the HEMI’s displacement and the vehicle’s substantial curb weight, especially when engaged in stop-and-go traffic. It’s a powertrain designed for effortless acceleration and heavy lifting, not feather-light starts. That 14 MPG number shouldn’t surprise anyone who understands how a traditional V8 engine operates under urban conditions. The constant cycling through lower gears, the frequent application of torque to get over 5,000 pounds moving, it all adds up. Conversely, the 22 MPG highway rating means the efficient 8-speed automatic transmission helps. Once the Durango is settled into a cruising rhythm, likely with the cylinder deactivation system engaging, the HEMI can operate at remarkably low RPMs, allowing it to stretch those gallons further. This is where the long-legged nature of the V8 truly shines, providing ample power reserves for passing without a significant penalty to fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,100 for the 2025 Dodge Durango AWD 5.7L 8-cyl. This figure is calculated based on an assumed 15,000 miles driven per year, distributed between city and highway driving, using national average fuel prices. For a prospective owner, this $3,100 estimate provides a clear, data-driven expectation of one of the primary recurring expenses associated with owning such a vehicle. It’s a significant figure, certainly higher than many smaller, more efficient family haulers, but it’s a recognized cost of entry for those who prioritize the Durango’s specific blend of performance, space, and towing capability. The buyers of this particular Durango variant are typically not shocked by this number, they’ve factored it into their budget from the outset, understanding it’s part of the bargain for a HEMI V8.

Real-world expectations

In the real world, owners of the 2025 Dodge Durango 5.7L V8 AWD often report figures closely mirroring the EPA’s estimates. Heavy-footed drivers or those consistently hauling significant loads will see numbers closer to the 14 MPG city figure, or even slightly below, especially if they spend a lot of time in congested areas. On the other hand, drivers with a lighter touch who frequently embark on long highway trips will reliably achieve the 22 MPG highway rating, sometimes even exceeding it under ideal conditions. Durango buyers understand that their vehicle’s fuel economy is a function of its V8 engine’s power delivery. They bought it for the effortless acceleration, the authoritative exhaust note, and the confidence to tow a substantial boat or trailer. They aren’t trying to hypermile this SUV, they’re using it for its intended purpose, and the fuel consumption is an accepted part of that experience. Expect strong performance, expect the ability to dominate the passing lane, and expect fuel stops that align with the EPA’s forecasts.

How it compares

When stacked against its contemporaries, the 2025 Dodge Durango 5.7L V8 AWD occupies a distinct niche, and its fuel economy reflects that. Consider its direct V8-powered competitors. The Chevrolet Tahoe with the 5.3L V8, for instance, typically achieves around 17 MPG combined (15 city/20 highway) in AWD configurations. The Ford Expedition, even with its turbocharged EcoBoost V6, manages around 19 MPG combined (16 city/22 highway) for its AWD variants, though it lacks the raw V8 soundtrack and feel that many Durango buyers crave. Move to something like the Toyota Sequoia with its i-Force Max hybrid V6, and you’re looking at 22 MPG combined (21 city/24 highway), a significant improvement in efficiency but a completely different driving character and powertrain philosophy. The Durango’s buyers aren’t cross-shopping a Sequoia for its fuel economy, they’re looking at its DURANGO MPG across all years in the context of other V8-powered, truck-based, capable SUVs. They value the traditional V8 experience and are willing to accept the fuel economy results that come with it. For those who prioritize a pure, naturally aspirated V8 brute force over absolute frugality, the Durango’s figures are right in line with expectations for its class and powertrain.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintain your speed on the highway, aiming for consistent throttle input. The Durango’s 8-speed automatic is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds, often using cylinder deactivation. Avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration to fully use this system.

Optimize your towing weight. While the 5.7L HEMI is a powerhouse, pulling significantly heavier loads or poorly aerodynamic trailers will naturally increase fuel consumption. Plan your hauls and ensure your trailer is balanced and properly inflated to reduce drag and strain on the engine.

Regular maintenance is crucial for a V8. Keep up with oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections according to Dodge’s schedule. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, directly impacting your MPG figures.

Use cruise control on highways and avoid aggressive driving in the city. The HEMI’s instant torque delivery can tempt heavy throttle application, but smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic will yield noticeable improvements in city fuel economy. Think about gentle braking and smooth starts.

Check tire pressure regularly. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Proper tire pressure, as specified on your door jamb, can lead to a measurable increase in efficiency for any vehicle, especially a large SUV like the Durango. For more information on all Dodge fuel economy data, explore our site.