18 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Dodge Charger 6.4L 8-cyl, a number that won’t win any awards for saving gas, but it’s not a problem for the enthusiast who signs on the dotted line. This isn’t a car bought by people wanting maximum efficiency; it’s a statement, a commitment to V8 rumble and tire-smoking fun. The person buying this Charger wants visceral thrills, and they’re prepared to pay for it at the pump.

City and highway performance

Those EPA figures break down to 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst when dealing with stop-and-go traffic, where its considerable power is often underutilized. However, the highway MPG shows that the Charger can achieve reasonable efficiency when cruising at steady speeds. Credit for this goes to the eight-speed automatic transmission, which helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, and cylinder deactivation, which shuts down half the cylinders under light load.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Dodge Charger 6.4L 8-cyl at exactly $3,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the prevailing price of gasoline. If you drive aggressively, spend more time in city traffic, or live in an area with higher fuel prices, you can expect to exceed that $3,200 figure. Conversely, those who prioritize highway driving and practice fuel-efficient techniques might see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy often differs. The Charger 6.4L is highly sensitive to driving style.

A heavy foot will easily send fuel economy plummeting below the EPA estimates, especially in city driving. However, with careful use of the throttle on the open road, some drivers report seeing numbers slightly above the 24 MPG highway rating. The key is to resist the temptation to exploit the engine’s power at every opportunity.

How it compares

Compared to other large sedans with powerful engines, the Charger’s fuel economy is predictably on the lower end. A 2019 Chrysler 300S with the 5.7L V8 achieves an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined, slightly better than the Charger. A Nissan Maxima, while front-wheel drive and using a V6, manages 24 MPG combined, offering a more efficient, albeit less thrilling, driving experience. The Charger is unapologetically about delivering raw power and a retro muscle car feel, while other vehicles prioritize fuel economy to some degree. Looking at all Dodge fuel economy data, the Charger 6.4L is among the thirstiest options in the lineup. Enthusiasts looking for better gas mileage from this generation Charger should also investigate CHARGER MPG across all years to see the variations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing every last mile out of each gallon might not be the primary goal of a Charger 6.4L owner, there are still steps that can be taken to improve fuel economy: avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Charger’s powerful engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, but gradual acceleration will conserve fuel and reduce wear on tires and brakes.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary throttle adjustments. This is particularly effective on long trips, where variations in speed can significantly impact fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine run while stationary wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. The Charger’s engine is strong and doesn’t require extended warm-up periods.

Consider using a lighter touch on the accelerator pedal, especially during city driving. Learn to anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary stops and starts. Gentle acceleration will help keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.