16 MPG combined. Let’s be honest, anyone deeply concerned about fuel economy probably isn’t cross-shopping the 2018 Ford Shelby GT350 Mustang. This isn’t a car purchased for its practicality or lower fuel costs. It’s a raw, visceral machine designed to deliver a pure driving experience centered around its legendary high-revving 5.2L “Voodoo” V8 engine and track-honed chassis. Fuel efficiency is a distant afterthought, a necessary evil tolerated to unleash the car’s true potential on the open road or, ideally, a challenging racetrack.

City and highway performance

The GT350’s EPA ratings break down to 14 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the inherent inefficiency of a large-displacement engine operating in stop-and-go traffic, where the potential of the V8 is rarely tapped. The 21 MPG highway rating is more palatable, but still far from frugal. Achieving that number requires a disciplined right foot and resisting the temptation to explore the upper reaches of the tachometer, a considerable challenge given the engine’s addictive sound and responsiveness. The combination of a lightweight Tremec six-speed manual transmission and the naturally aspirated engine mean that the driver is responsible for keeping the MPG needle high, or very very low.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2018 Shelby GT350. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel price. It’s a substantial figure placing it squarely in the realm of gas-guzzlers, reflecting the GT350’s performance-oriented design and powerful engine. Keep in mind that this figure is an estimate and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of driving you typically do. Those who track the car will likely be far higher, for example, and those who only drive longer highway trips occasionally could see that total fall.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy for the GT350 can vary significantly. Drivers who frequently indulge in spirited driving, especially on the track, can expect to see numbers well below the official ratings. Conversely, those who primarily use the car for relaxed cruises, with minimal hard acceleration, might be able to approach or even slightly exceed the highway figure. Achieving consistently high fuel economy is challenging because of the GT350’s inherent design and the temptation to exploit its performance capabilities. Ultimately, a responsible driver can maximize their MPG but its unlikely you ever bought this car for that singular reason.

How it compares

Compared to other performance cars in its class, the GT350’s fuel economy is generally in line with expectations. For example, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, with its supercharged V8, achieves around 16 MPG combined. The previous generation Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat achieves a similar 16 MPG. Even the BMW M4, which prioritizes performance, sees around 19 MPG combined. Examining SHELBY MPG across all years, you can see that this level of gas usage is consistent with the entire Shelby lineage. These comparisons highlight that the GT350’s fuel consumption is a byproduct of its high-performance nature, a trade-off that enthusiasts are typically willing to accept. If you’re really aiming for more MPG data across Ford, and not specific to Shelby, explore all Ford fuel economy data and you will see that there are plenty of other options within the brand.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is key. While the GT350 is designed for aggressive driving, mindful throttle control can significantly impact fuel consumption. Avoid abrupt acceleration and instead, gradually build speed to minimize fuel waste. Driving within the torque curve helps avoid constantly dropping gears and revving the engine high, improving MPG numbers.

Proper tire inflation is crucial. Ensure that your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate a prolonged stop, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. While the Voodoo engine sounds amazing, letting it roar while sitting still is just burning cash.

Plan your routes strategically. When possible, choose routes that minimize stop-and-go traffic, as constant braking and acceleration significantly contribute to fuel consumption. Opt for routes with consistent speeds and fewer traffic lights to improve fuel efficiency. Consider using GPS features to anticipate and avoid congestion.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Removing any unnecessary weight from the vehicle can slightly improve fuel economy. Carrying excess cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall load and requires more energy to accelerate. Take out anything sitting in the trunk that isn’t required for daily driving.