23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2015 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6, it’s acceptable. This car isn’t about squeezing every last mile out of a gallon. It’s about retro styling, comfortable cruising, and a healthy dose of American muscle car attitude, even in V6 form. The Challenger buyer knows exactly what they’re signing up for: a big, bold coupe that prioritizes presence over Prius-like efficiency, and they are willing to make the compromise.

City and highway performance

The 2015 Challenger V6 gets 19 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway, according to the EPA. The wide gap between these two figures highlights the nature of the car.

In stop-and-go city driving, the Challenger’s weight and displacement become noticeable. However, on the open road, the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to settle into a relaxed cruise, contributing to the respectable highway number. These figures accurately reflect the typical use for this vehicle. It’s a comfortable highway cruiser, more likely found on weekend road trips than daily urban commutes.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6 is $1,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, location, and current gas prices. If you primarily drive in the city or have a lead foot, expect to exceed this figure. Conversely, if you predominantly use the highway and drive conservatively, you may be able to come in under the $1,900 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG can vary significantly. Some Challenger owners report numbers close to the EPA figures when driving conservatively. However, the Challenger’s responsive throttle and appealing exhaust note can tempt drivers to use more of the engine’s power, which will inevitably impact fuel economy. Expect to see fuel economy dip below 19 MPG in the city if you frequently accelerate hard or encounter heavy traffic. On the highway, achieving or even exceeding 30 MPG is possible with careful throttle control and consistent speeds.

How it compares

Compared to other coupes in its class, the 2015 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6’s fuel economy is generally in the middle of the pack. A similarly equipped 2015 Ford Mustang V6, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined, 19 MPG city, and 31 MPG highway, very similar to the Challenger. However, the Nissan 370Z, while offering a similar driving experience, achieves a worse 21 MPG combined. A BMW 428i coupe, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, boasts significantly better fuel economy at 27 MPG combined. But the BMW buyer is looking for a different driving experience than the Challenger buyer. Knowing the all Dodge fuel economy data helps put the Challenger into its proper context. The CHALLENGER MPG across all years shows the longer history of this model.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Challenger’s muscular engine is responsive, but every stomp of the accelerator pedal burns fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly improve your gas mileage, especially in city driving. Feather the throttle and anticipate traffic flow to maintain momentum.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. This is a simple yet effective way to improve your MPG.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary speed fluctuations that waste fuel. Set it and forget it (within safe driving limits, of course), allowing the car to manage the throttle for optimal efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The Challenger is already a heavy car, so avoid carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or backseat. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload and decreases fuel economy. Clean out the clutter and only carry what you need.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A healthy engine is a more efficient engine.