16 MPG combined is, let’s be honest, atrocious for almost any modern vehicle. But the 2017 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L isn’t “almost any modern vehicle.” It’s a fire-breathing, tire-shredding retro muscle car, and its buyers are far more concerned with horsepower than hypermiling. This Challenger caters to a specific demographic: those who prioritize visceral thrills and unapologetic performance over fuel sipping. They buy it for the rumble of the exhaust, the neck-snapping acceleration, and the sheer presence it commands on the road. A low MPG figure is simply the price of admission to this particular club.

City and highway performance

The Challenger SRT’s EPA ratings break down to 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s tendency to consume fuel rapidly in stop-and-go traffic, where the massive horsepower is largely irrelevant. The highway number is somewhat more palatable, but still far from economical. Even with the 8-speed automatic transmission working to keep the engine in its most efficient range, the car’s weight and aerodynamic profile conspire against optimal fuel consumption at higher speeds. Drivers should note these MPG ratings and expect them if the vehicle is primarily driven in either stop and go traffic OR on the highway.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L at $3,600. This figure is based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Understand that individual fuel costs may vary significantly depending on driving habits and local fuel prices; aggressive driving will increase the cost, while gentle cruising predominantly on the highway could lower it. Still, regardless of how you drive it, this figure should be considered a minimum operating-cost expectation for prospective owners.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Challenger SRT drivers who regularly exploit the car’s performance potential will likely see even lower figures than the EPA estimates. Expect to be closer to the 13 MPG city figure in mixed driving conditions, especially if you have a heavy foot. Careful drivers who prioritize fuel conservation *might* achieve the 22 MPG highway rating on long road trips, but it requires significant restraint. Checking out CHALLENGER MPG across all years can provide a broader picture of what different owners have experienced.

How it compares

Unsurprisingly, the Challenger SRT’s fuel economy is abysmal compared to most vehicles in its class OR on the market today. A modern sports coupe like the Ford Mustang EcoBoost achieves around 25 MPG combined, while the V8 powered Mustang GT manages around 19 MPG. Even the Camaro SS, another V8-powered muscle car, gets better gas mileage than the Challenger SRT, achieving approximately 20 MPG combined. The Nissan Z with a manual transmission has an EPA of 20 MPG. Buyers considering the Challenger are most likely cross-shopping these type of vehicles, which is why fuel economy is an important factor for comparison. These figures highlight the trade-off the Challenger SRT buyer makes: raw power and classic muscle car character at the expense of efficiency. Comparing all Dodge fuel economy data to competitors will show that it is below average.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While squeezing maximum MPGs from a Challenger SRT might seem counterintuitive, there are a few techniques that can slightly improve fuel economy. Gentle acceleration is key. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal unless absolutely necessary, and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize sudden braking and acceleration.

Use the Challenger’s drive modes strategically. If your model is equipped with an “Eco” or “Street” mode, activate it when cruising on the highway or navigating city streets. These modes often adjust throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency.

Regular maintenance is crucial. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, the tires are correctly inflated, and the air filter is clean. These factors can all impact fuel economy, even in a high-performance vehicle.

Consider your tire choice. High-performance tires offer superior grip, but they often have higher rolling resistance, which can reduce fuel economy. If you prioritize fuel efficiency, explore less aggressive tire options.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.