15 MPG combined. Nobody buys a 2017 Chevrolet Camaro with the 6.2L V8 expecting Prius-like efficiency. This isn’t a commuter car. It’s a visceral, tire-shredding muscle car designed to evoke a bygone era, and the fuel consumption is part of the experience. The rumble of that V8, the surge of power, and the head-turning looks are part of the cost. Performance enthusiasts who prioritize horsepower and driving thrills over saving money at the pump understand this.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates reveal the reality of feeding such a potent engine: 12 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. That city figure, achieved during simulated stop-and-go driving, reflects the engine’s thirst when constantly accelerating from a standstill. The highway figure acknowledges the Camaro’s aerodynamic limitations and the temptation to exploit the V8’s passing power. Long stretches of steady-state cruising can yield results closer to that 20 MPG mark, but few Camaro drivers can maintain that level of restraint for extended periods.

Annual fuel cost

Prepare for an annual fuel bill. The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s assumed fuel price at the time of calculation. This is a significant outlay. While fuel prices fluctuate considerably, this serves as a benchmark for budgeting and understanding the true cost of ownership. This assumes a 55% city and 45% highway driving pattern, a usage model that might underestimate the fuel costs for Camaro owners who prioritize weekend cruises and track days.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often diverges. Aggressive driving, aftermarket modifications, and even tire pressure can significantly impact fuel consumption. It’s not uncommon for enthusiastic Camaro drivers to see actual city MPG figures dip below 10. Highway numbers can also suffer if speeds are consistently high. Owners report varying results depending on their routes, driving habits, and the specific blend of gasoline used. Consider the EPA numbers a best-case scenario attainable only with conscious efforts towards efficient driving.

How it compares

The 2017 Ford Mustang GT, another iconic muscle car with a 5.0L V8, achieves a slightly better 19 MPG combined. The Dodge Challenger R/T with its 5.7L Hemi V8 also lands around 19 MPG combined. These marginal differences are unlikely to sway a buyer already committed to the Camaro’s specific blend of style, handling, and performance. Looking beyond the traditional muscle car segment, other performance vehicles exhibit similarly poor fuel economy. A Porsche 911 Carrera S, with its turbocharged 3.0L flat-six, manages only 22 MPG combined, demonstrating that performance, regardless of vehicle type, typically comes at the expense of fuel efficiency. For a broader perspective, you can review all Chevrolet fuel economy data. You can also see CAMARO MPG across all years to better understand trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge for rapid acceleration. The Camaro’s V8 encourages spirited driving, but gentle throttle application during acceleration can significantly reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary braking, allowing the car to coast whenever possible. A smoother driving style minimizes fuel wasted during both acceleration and deceleration.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while stationary for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines do not require extended warm-up periods, so you can start driving gently immediately after starting the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed helps optimize fuel efficiency, especially on long, level stretches of road. Cruise control minimizes fluctuations in speed, reducing the amount of fuel wasted on unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This feature won’t be fuel-efficient in hilly terrain.