17 MPG combined is what you’ll get if you need the 2018 Dodge Durango RWD with the 5.7L Hemi V8. This SUV isn’t about saving every drop of gasoline. It’s a muscle SUV, a three-row hauler with attitude and the ability to tow heavy loads. Dodge Durango buyers know they are trading fuel efficiency for power, space, and aggressive styling that other SUVs don’t have.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway for this Durango. The highway number is good for a vehicle this size and with this much power, but the city MPG shows how much gas the Hemi uses in stop-and-go traffic. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps improve gas mileage at cruising speeds, but you are moving a lot of weight with a big engine. The Durango isn’t made for hypermiling, and it’s more fun to drive with a heavier foot than some other SUVs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Dodge Durango RWD 5.7L V8 is $3,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the average fuel price at the time. Your fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, where you live, and fuel prices. Expect to pay more if you mostly drive in the city or drive fast. If you mostly drive on the highway and drive efficiently, you might save some money. This engine is made to run on regular unleaded fuel, which helps save money.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy will usually be different. Owners often report slightly lower MPG than the EPA numbers, especially when driving in mixed conditions. Towing will greatly decrease fuel consumption, often dropping MPG into the low teens or even single digits depending on the load. Short trips, cold starts, and driving hard also lower fuel economy. The onboard fuel economy display shows current and average MPG, but it’s just a general guide.

How it compares

The 2018 Dodge Durango RWD 5.7L V8 uses more fuel than its competitors. A Ford Explorer with its 3.5L V6 gets around 19 MPG combined. A Toyota Highlander V6 gets closer to 22 MPG combined. The Chevy Traverse, known for its spaciousness, often gets around 20 MPG combined. The Durango’s lower MPG is the cost for its higher towing capacity (7,400 pounds) and the sound of the Hemi V8. If you care most about fuel economy, you will find better options, but the Durango’s power and towing ability may be worth the tradeoff. Check all Dodge fuel economy data to see how the Durango compares across the lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Hemi V8 uses a lot of gas, but you can still improve fuel efficiency in your 2018 Dodge Durango. Keep your tires properly inflated, as low tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Use the recommended tire pressure on the door jamb, and check it often, especially when the temperature changes.

Avoid driving too fast and braking hard. The Durango’s strong engine makes it fun to use its power, but driving smoothly saves fuel. Watch the traffic and keep a consistent speed when you can, so you don’t have to speed up too much.

Take out extra weight from the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo makes the engine work harder, decreasing fuel economy. Take out anything you don’t need, especially heavy things in the cargo area.

Consider cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed prevents accelerating and decelerating, which improves fuel economy. Watch traffic and turn off cruise control if needed.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups make sure the engine is running well. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel and lasts longer. You can browse DURANGO MPG across all years to identify trends.