You can realistically expect 27 MPG combined from the 2016 Dodge Dart 2.4L. It’s not as efficient as a Prius, and it doesn’t lead the compact class. But for the practical, everyday driver who prioritizes cabin space, comfortable ride quality, and accessible technology over outright fuel savings, the Dart is appealing and the 2.4-liter’s real-world drivability figures into the equation.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Dodge Dart 2.4L are 23 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. These are only EPA estimates, and real-world results can vary drastically. If you’re perpetually in stop-and-go traffic, that 23 MPG city number will likely decrease. But if your commute is primarily highway miles at a consistent speed, exceeding 34 MPG is possible. The automatic transmission is programmed to upshift early to save fuel, and it can sometimes feel a little sluggish as a result in certain gear selections.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Dodge Dart 2.4L is $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost will depend on how many miles you drive annually and the price of gasoline in your area. A person with a short commute in a low-cost state will pay less than $1,600, while a traveling salesperson in California will likely pay more. Consider this a reasonable baseline for comparison shopping. For those looking for all Dodge fuel economy data, it’s useful to have that reference point.

Real-world expectations

The 27 MPG combined rating is generally achievable in mixed driving conditions with the 2.4-liter engine. Many Dart owners report seeing numbers close to this in their everyday driving. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will reduce fuel economy numbers. The Dart’s 2.4-liter engine requires a bit more throttle input to get moving compared to some of its competitors, which can lead to drivers being more aggressive with the gas pedal. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and cargo weight can affect fuel consumption. Overall, consider 27 MPG a realistic estimate for this car.

How it compares

The 2016 Dodge Dart 2.4L is in a very competitive compact car segment, where every MPG counts. A comparable 2016 Honda Civic with its 2.0-liter engine achieves 31 MPG combined. The Civic with the 1.5-liter turbo sees around 35 MPG combined. A 2016 Toyota Corolla achieves approximately 32 MPG combined, making it another strong contender in fuel economy. A similarly equipped 2016 Ford Focus with the 2.0L engine delivers around 30 MPG combined. While these other cars do provide better fuel economy, the Dart offers a higher level of interior refinement and a more comfortable ride than some of its competitors and is worth considering if fuel economy isn’t the only issue.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated to the pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door is one of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes, as this can significantly impact tire pressure.

Stick to the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual to keep your Dart running efficiently. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance can all contribute to optimum fuel economy. A poorly maintained engine can experience reduced fuel efficiency, so staying on top of maintenance is key.

Avoid aggressive driving habits such as rapid acceleration and hard braking. These habits can significantly decrease fuel economy. Accelerate smoothly and gradually, and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary braking. Using cruise control on the highway can also help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency. The DART MPG across all years varied depending on the model year and engine.

Keep your vehicle as light as possible by removing any unnecessary items from the trunk and cabin. Extra weight increases the engine’s workload, leading to lower fuel economy. Removing items such as golf clubs, extra luggage, or other unused items can make a noticeable difference over time.