17 MPG combined is the unavoidable reality when you choose the 2019 Dodge Durango AWD with the 5.7L Hemi V8. This isn’t a vehicle for those prioritizing hyper-miling. It’s for families who need three rows, want a good amount of American V8 power, and want the capability of all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s less important than the Durango’s other strengths.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Dodge Durango AWD 5.7L show different results for city and highway driving. In the city, expect around 14 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic and the engine’s large size don’t work well together. The Durango does better on the open highway, reaching 22 MPG. This is thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission and cylinder deactivation, which helps save fuel when cruising. The 8-speed automatic is important for getting the most miles per gallon from the Hemi, while still giving a responsive feel when needed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Dodge Durango AWD 5.7L is $3,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and assuming the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may be different depending on your driving habits, where you live, and changes in gasoline prices, but $3,100 gives you an idea.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a starting point, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Aggressive driving, towing, and carrying heavy loads can lower MPG. Owners who often tow trailers or live in hilly areas may see numbers closer to the city estimate, even on long trips. However, drivers with mostly highway commutes, who drive gently, might see numbers a little higher than the EPA’s 22 MPG highway rating. Winter gasoline blends usually result in lower fuel efficiency than summer blends, so your MPG may go down in colder months.

How it compares

The Durango’s fuel economy is similar to others in its class. A similarly equipped 2019 Ford Explorer with its 3.5L V6 EcoBoost gets around 19MPG combined, a small improvement. The Toyota Highlander, with its 3.5L V6, gets about 22 MPG combined, mostly because it has front-wheel drive and a smaller engine. It’s also not really a truck. But if you check all Dodge fuel economy data, you’ll see the Durango is unique. If you are open to other models, a Chevrolet Traverse averages around 20 MPG combined with its V6, and the Honda Pilot is similar, at 21 MPG combined. These small MPG differences add up, but for Durango buyers, the Hemi V8 performance and strong styling often matter more than slightly better fuel efficiency in other models. The DURANGO MPG across all years is consistently around the same number.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t floor it at every stoplight. Accelerating gently and expecting traffic flow lets the engine work more efficiently, improving your overall MPG. It’s tempting to feel the power, but driving patiently will reward you at the gas station.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated, and that your Durango is well maintained. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, keeps the engine running well and helps maintain the best possible MPG.

Remove any extra cargo from your vehicle. Added weight puts strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Remove any clutter and equipment that isn’t needed for daily driving to lighten the load.

Keep idling time to a minimum. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. This helps in cities where you often face traffic lights and congestion.

Think about using cruise control on the highway. Keeping a steady speed can improve fuel economy compared to constantly accelerating and decelerating. Set the cruise control to a reasonable speed and let the vehicle maintain it, saving fuel on long stretches of road.