23 MPG combined isn’t the main reason someone buys the 2016 Dodge Challenger with the 3.6L V6. This isn’t trying to be a Prius; it’s a modern muscle car that happens to have a pragmatic engine. Challenger buyers want a bold look and a driving experience reminiscent of classic American performance, and the Pentastar V6 offers a balance of reasonable power and decent fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2016 Dodge Challenger V6 at 19 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. These numbers are related to the Challenger’s weight and how aerodynamic it is. Being a large car, its classic muscle car design isn’t optimized for cutting through the air. Stop-and-go city driving uses more fuel because of all the accelerating and braking. But the eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range at higher speeds, contributing to the 30 MPG highway rating, a number that makes long road trips surprisingly doable in a car usually reserved for weekend cruises.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Dodge Challenger 3.6L V6 at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, the fuel you use, and where you live. Heavy-footed drivers in the city can expect to exceed $1,900. Conversely, mainly highway drivers who drive efficiently might come in under that amount. The EPA gets the $1,900 figure using the combined MPG rating and assuming that 45% of your miles are city and 55% are highway.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Many owners report getting numbers close to the EPA estimates. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long idling can all significantly reduce fuel economy. The terrain plays a role too; hills will generally result in lower MPG than flat roads. Keeping your tires properly inflated and ensuring your engine is properly tuned can also help. Drivers who pay attention to their habits often get closer to that 30 MPG highway figure.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the 2016 Dodge Challenger V6’s fuel economy is fairly competitive, especially considering its size and performance. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined, 31 MPG highway, a slight edge, but it comes in a smaller car. The Chevrolet Camaro with its base 2.0L Turbo offers similar numbers: 22 city and 31 highway. The Challenger’s V6 provides a different experience, delivering accessible power with a more traditional engine feel, albeit at a slight fuel economy penalty. Those prioritizing lower fuel costs might consider the smaller, lighter competitors, but for those drawn to the Challenger’s unique blend of muscle car heritage and modern practicality, the fuel consumption is an acceptable trade-off. See all Dodge fuel economy data on our site. You can also explore CHALLENGER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the Challenger’s eight-speed automatic transmission. It’s designed to keep the engine in its most efficient RPM range, so avoid aggressive acceleration that forces the transmission to downshift unnecessarily. Smooth, gradual acceleration will help you maintain better fuel economy.

Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside your driver’s side door. This is an easy way to improve your MPG without sacrificing performance or comfort.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. The heavier your car, the more fuel it takes to move it. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger areas. Every little bit helps, especially in city driving where you’re constantly accelerating and braking.

Consider using cruise control when driving on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy compared to fluctuating speeds. Avoid using cruise control in hilly or mountainous terrains, as it can sometimes cause the transmission to downshift unnecessarily, negating any fuel savings.

Limit extended idling. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to be restarted easily, and idling consumes fuel without moving the car. This is especially important when stuck in traffic or waiting for someone.