The 2017 Dodge Challenger GT with its 3.6L 6-cyl engine gets 21 MPG combined. While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for many buyers, that’s perfectly acceptable. The Challenger GT prioritizes a visceral driving experience and classic muscle car aesthetics, now enhanced with all-wheel drive. The 3.6L V6 engine provides ample power while achieving acceptable fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Dodge Challenger GT gets 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city MPG can be a concern, particularly for drivers frequently in stop-and-go traffic. The highway MPG, however, is a pleasant surprise. The eight-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs, resulting in better fuel economy on long trips. Aggressive driving reduces both city and highway MPG, but who buys a Challenger GT to drive it conservatively?

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Dodge Challenger GT at $2,100. This is calculated based on 15,000 miles driven per year and national average fuel prices. Because fuel prices fluctuate, and individual driving habits vary, the actual amount spent on fuel will differ. The $2,100 figure offers a useful point of reference when comparing it with other vehicles, but your personal expenses may vary.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates and real-world fuel economy can often differ. Drivers in heavy traffic or those with a lead foot might see numbers below 18 MPG in the city. Conversely, those primarily driving on the highway at consistent speeds could achieve MPG figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, 27 MPG. Online forums and fuel tracking apps provide more real-world data from Challenger GT owners. Understanding your driving style and typical routes is important for accurately predicting your fuel costs.

How it compares

The 2017 Dodge Challenger GT’s fuel economy is mid-range when compared to other sporty coupes. A similarly equipped Ford Mustang EcoBoost, with its 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder, achieves 25 MPG combined. The Nissan 370Z, with its more powerful 3.7L V6, only manages 22 MPG combined, making the Challenger GT slightly better for those seeking lower fuel costs. These are different cars with different priorities; those shopping for a Mustang for its smaller size and sportier handling won’t be satisfied by the Challenger. You can also compare the CHALLENGER MPG across all years to understand fuel economy trends. Don’t forget to review all Dodge fuel economy data to see how the GT compares against other models in the Dodge lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Challenger GT’s eight-speed automatic transmission by allowing it to shift smoothly and avoiding aggressive acceleration. Gradual acceleration keeps the engine in its most efficient RPM range, saving fuel.

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden braking, which wastes momentum and requires more energy to regain speed.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. This simple maintenance step can make a difference, especially for a large vehicle.

Remove unnecessary weight from the car, because more weight consumes more fuel. Remove items from the trunk and interior to lighten the load. Even small amounts help.

Consider using cruise control on long highway drives. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, preventing acceleration and deceleration. This improves fuel economy, especially on flat stretches. Avoid cruise control in hilly areas however, as it may cause the transmission to downshift frequently, negating fuel-saving benefits.

Use the correct grade of gasoline, as the 2017 Dodge Challenger GT runs on regular unleaded gasoline. Using premium fuel won’t improve performance or fuel economy and is a waste of money. Stick to the recommended octane rating in the owner’s manual.