16 MPG combined is the reality for anyone considering a 2018 Dodge Charger SRT with the 6.2L V8. No one buys this car for its fuel efficiency. They buy it for its earth-shaking power, its unapologetic attitude, and the thrill of unleashing 707 horsepower. The Charger SRT is a tire-shredding muscle car first, and any pretense of economy is a distant afterthought.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway show where this Charger SRT performs best. The city figure reflects constant stop-and-go driving, frequent heavy acceleration, and the engine working hard to overcome the car’s weight. The highway number, while better, still shows the fuel costs of maintaining higher speeds, due to the engine’s displacement and aero limitations.

Annual fuel cost

Expect an annual fuel bill of approximately $3,600, according to the EPA. This estimate is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. A lead foot or track days will quickly send that number higher. Consider this a baseline, if you drive it hard, plan to spend significantly more.

Real-world expectations

Owners report fuel economy figures that often vary significantly from the EPA estimates, especially in mixed driving conditions. Many acknowledge achieving the EPA highway figure is possible with careful throttle management, but hitting the city estimate requires restraint. Aggressive driving, a Charger SRT’s natural state, severely impacts fuel consumption. Extended idle times in traffic or frequent remote starts will also diminish fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The Charger SRT’s fuel economy is poor compared to its less powerful siblings and rivals. The Charger R/T with the 5.7L V8 gets around 19 MPG combined, an improvement, but less than half of this version. A similarly powered Cadillac CTS-V manages around 17 MPG combined, a small improvement, while offering a more luxurious experience, but buyers don’t cross-shop those very often. Looking at alternatives to the Dodge brand, all Dodge fuel economy data demonstrates that nothing else combines size, horsepower, and price quite like the Charger lineup. And within the CHARGER MPG across all years only a few other Chargers come close to this level of horsepower and fuel inefficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Lighten your load. Excess weight in the car puts additional strain on the engine, especially during acceleration. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to improve fuel economy. This won’t dramatically transform the Charger SRT into a Prius, but every little bit helps.

Smooth acceleration and braking are important. Avoid stomping on the gas pedal or slamming on the brakes. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions can conserve fuel. Pay attention to the road ahead and allow the car to coast when possible.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended inflation levels specified on the driver’s side door jamb.

Consider disabling “Track” mode for everyday driving. While tempting to engage its most aggressive settings, using Track mode significantly alters the transmission’s shift points and throttle response, prioritizing performance over efficiency. Use “Street” or “Auto” modes for better fuel economy in normal conditions.

Minimize idling. A cold start uses a lot of fuel, but so does sitting for extended periods with the engine running. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed for this, and you won’t cause any harm to the starter or other components.