Owners of the 2015 Dodge Durango RWD with the 3.6L V6 can expect around 20 MPG combined. It’s important to remember what this vehicle offers. This isn’t a compact crossover; it’s a sizable SUV that offers some muscle car DNA. Buyers are usually looking for space for family and cargo, strong towing capability, and an aggressive look when they buy a Durango. The 20 MPG figure is simply the cost for owning a vehicle that can handle almost any need.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Durango’s fuel economy at 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure demonstrates the demands on an engine in stop-and-go traffic; all that starting and stopping reduces efficiency. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps to reduce these losses, with smooth shifts that help the engine stay in its most efficient range. On the highway, where the engine cruises, the 25 MPG figure is possible, especially on flat roads and with conservative driving. This enables decent road trips, though you will still need to fill up frequently for longer journeys.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Dodge Durango RWD 3.6L at $2,200. This is calculated using 15,000 miles driven per year, using national average fuel prices. Note that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will depend on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mainly city vs. highway), and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving will significantly increase your fuel consumption and, therefore, your annual fuel costs. To better understand Dodge’s overall fuel efficiency, check out all Dodge fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary. Some Durango owners report numbers slightly below the EPA estimates, especially in combined driving. Frequent city driving, frequent towing, and aggressive driving are common causes. However, some drivers have exceeded the EPA’s highway estimate, especially on long road trips with little traffic. To get a better understanding of Durango MPG across all years and engines, explore DURANGO MPG across all years. Your driving style and conditions will determine the fuel economy you get.

How it compares

The 2015 Dodge Durango is in a competitive vehicle class. The Ford Explorer with its 3.5L V6 gets around 19 MPG combined, slightly less than the Durango. A similarly sized Chevrolet Traverse gets close to this at 18 MPG. Even a smaller SUV like the Toyota Highlander with a V6 manages around 21 MPG combined, slightly better. Durango buyers accept they are sacrificing some efficiency for its unique combination of strong capability, spaciousness, and aggressive styling. Fuel economy is a factor, but not the main consideration.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and consume more fuel. Make sure your engine air filter is clean too. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, which can hurt fuel economy.

Avoid aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration and hard braking. These actions create extra strain on the engine and consume more fuel. Instead, drive with smooth acceleration and anticipate traffic to reduce braking. Using cruise control on the highway can also help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Reduce weight in the vehicle. Carrying cargo adds weight, requiring the engine to work harder. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle, especially heavy items. Also, remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use, as they increase aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel economy.

Use the Durango’s 8-speed automatic transmission, as it is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Avoid manually downshifting unless needed, as this can increase fuel consumption. The transmission will select the correct gear for driving conditions.