The 2015 Dodge Charger AWD with the 3.6L V6 gets 21 MPG combined. It’s not a class-leading number, but it’s a reasonable tradeoff for a large, comfortable sedan with all-weather traction and American muscle car DNA, a staple in the CHARGER MPG across all years statistics. This isn’t a Prius, and buyers don’t expect Prius-like fuel economy. They want a blend of practicality, aggressive styling, and sure-footedness, and the Charger tries to provide it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. Around town, the Charger’s weight and all-wheel-drive system lower efficiency. Stop-and-go traffic takes its toll, as it does on most vehicles. However, on the open road, the eight-speed automatic transmission helps the V6 cruise more efficiently. Drivers who primarily commute on highways will likely get closer to 27 MPG, while city drivers should expect closer to 18 MPG. This car performs better on wider roads, although the AWD system provides great stability in bad weather around town.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Dodge Charger AWD 3.6L at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and local fuel prices. This number puts the Charger in the middle of the pack for large sedans, acknowledging that its size, power, and all-wheel-drive capability cost more to fuel.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads hurt fuel efficiency. However, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help drivers get numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. Owners report seeing fuel economy between 19–24 MPG with mixed driving, indicating that the 21 MPG combined figure is achievable with conscientious driving habits. Your mileage may vary, but that’s generally true of all Dodge fuel economy data.

How it compares

Compared to other large sedans with all-wheel drive, the 2015 Charger’s fuel economy is competitive but not the best. For example, a 2015 Chrysler 300 AWD with the same 3.6L V6 engine gets similar EPA ratings because they share mechanicals. The 2015 Ford Taurus AWD with the optional 2.0L EcoBoost engine offers slightly better fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined, but has less horsepower and less driving excitement. The Nissan Maxima, which doesn’t offer all-wheel drive, gets better fuel economy in its front-wheel-drive configuration, around 25 MPG combined. These efficiency differences matter to buyers who want to save fuel, but Charger drivers usually accept the MPG tradeoff for the styling and driving experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Charger’s V6 provides ample power, but flooring the throttle will lower fuel economy. Gradual acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will improve your MPG.

Monitor your tire pressure. Underinflated tires create increased rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly check and maintain the correct tire pressure, as indicated on the door jamb sticker, to optimize fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling, especially during warm weather. If you anticipate stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and avoiding prolonged idling can save fuel.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed on long drives minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, resulting in better fuel economy. Use cruise control responsibly, especially in varying traffic conditions.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other maintenance ensure that the engine runs efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Charger operating well.