2015 Dodge Challenger 5.7L 8-Cyl Fuel Economy: What to Expect

19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for using less gas, but that’s not the main point of the 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T with the 5.7L HEMI. This muscle car delivers a visceral driving experience, a healthy dose of nostalgia, and performance that makes you grin when you accelerate. Fuel economy is secondary to the V8’s roar and tire-smoking acceleration.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2015 Challenger R/T are 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects how much gas the engine uses during stop-and-go driving, where the heavy V8 works harder. However, the highway number is surprisingly good. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds, which maximizes MPG when you’re not accelerating hard.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T 5.7L is $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember this is an estimate, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, the fuel type, and prices at the pump. Someone who often launches the car will exceed the EPA’s number.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures provide a baseline, and real-world fuel economy for the 2015 Challenger R/T can change significantly. Drivers who spend most of their time in cities and fighting traffic may see numbers closer to or below the 16 MPG city estimate. Those who mainly use the Challenger for highway driving could exceed the 25 MPG highway figure, especially if they drive conservatively. The Challenger is not a light car and the engine is a big V8, so aggressive driving will use a lot of gas. See all Dodge fuel economy data here.

How it compares

Compared to other muscle cars, the 2015 Challenger with the 5.7L V8 is comparable, but rarely better. A Ford Mustang GT of the same year, with its 5.0L V8, has EPA numbers of 15 MPG city and 25 MPG highway with the manual transmission, which is similar. A Chevrolet Camaro SS with its 6.2L V8 manages 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. However, the larger 6.4L Challenger R/T Scat Pack drops to 15/25. Start thinking about whether a different model would be a better compromise at CHALLENGER MPG across all years.

These comparisons matter because a potential Challenger buyer is likely considering these other American performance cars. The Challenger’s appeal is often in its retro styling and comfortable interior, trade-offs they may accept even if its MPG is one or two lower than the competition. The Challenger buyer understands that performance requires more gasoline.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2015 Challenger R/T isn’t designed to use less gas, but you can take steps to save fuel. Smooth acceleration is important. Avoid pressing the gas pedal hard unless you need to; gentle acceleration will help keep the engine in its most efficient range.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Keeping your tires properly inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (on the door jamb) can make a difference.

Remove extra weight in the vehicle. Excess cargo adds strain on the engine and decreases fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need to carry, such as golf clubs, extra tools, or heavy equipment.

Watch traffic and don’t brake suddenly. Look ahead and watch changes in traffic speed to minimize acceleration and braking. This driving style will improve your fuel economy.

When cruising on the highway, use cruise control when you can. Cruise control maintains a consistent speed, which helps fuel efficiency. It’s effective on long, flat roads where you can minimize changes in speed.