The 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6.2L gets 16 MPG combined and makes no excuses. This isn’t a car for those concerned about fuel costs. It’s a raw, tire-shredding muscle car that puts power and sound first, and its owners know that well.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the Challenger SRT8 at 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects frequent stops and starts, and the urge to tap into the supercharged V8’s power. These habits hurt fuel consumption. The highway number is better, but high speeds and aggressive passing will drop that number too. A gentle foot does deliver slightly better gas mileage, but few buy a Hellcat Challenger to drive gently.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6.2L at $3,600 per year. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Premium fuel is practically required to get the most performance and protect the engine, so expect to pay more based on driving habits or fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

Real-world mileage in a Challenger SRT8 varies greatly, all depending on driving style. Those who regularly drive aggressively will likely see 10-12 MPG in mixed driving, or even single digits. Easy highway cruising might get close to the EPA’s 22 MPG, but any hard acceleration will reduce it. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps get the most miles possible, but it’s mainly for performance. This is a machine that trades efficiency for force.

How it compares

The Challenger SRT8’s fuel economy is predictably low compared to other cars. A 2016 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, with its naturally aspirated 5.2L V8, gets slightly better mileage at around 18 MPG combined. Even the Chevrolet Camaro SS with the 6.2L V8 often sees a combined MPG in the high teens. These differences don’t matter much to SRT8 buyers. They value the Challenger’s retro styling, spacious interior, and strong performance. For those who truly want less gas within the Dodge family, details about all Dodge fuel economy data may be useful. But the SRT8 isn’t built to be efficient, and its buyers usually don’t care.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Even though it burns gas, you can do a few things to get slightly better mileage, but you won’t see a big change. Avoid short trips, as the engine won’t reach operating temperature. Cold starts use more fuel.

Use the Challenger’s adjustable drive modes. Setting the car to “Eco,” if available, will change the throttle response to be less aggressive, and this promotes smoother acceleration and could save fuel. Remember, even in eco mode, the supercharged V8 is still there.

Check your tire pressure often. Underinflated tires cause more rolling resistance, and this affects fuel economy. See the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the correct pressure.

Take care of your Challenger. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance will keep the engine running well. Routine service benefits even a high-performance engine. Owners can also compare CHALLENGER MPG across all years.