22 MPG combined in the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro 3.6L isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but it hits the mark for drivers who prioritize style and a thrilling driving experience over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a head-turning coupe with enough muscle to make every drive something special. Buyers of the V6 Camaro understand the tradeoff, and they’re okay with it. They want the aggressive looks, the responsive handling, and the respectable power of the V6 without stepping up to the V8’s thirstier appetite.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Camaro 3.6L are 19 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure, while not great, reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works to accelerate the car’s weight. The highway number is more respectable, demonstrating that the Camaro, when cruising at a steady speed, can achieve decent fuel economy. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps optimize engine speed for efficiency at higher speeds.

These figures are specific to the automatic transmission; the manual variant may yield slightly different results.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Chevrolet Camaro 3.6L at $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the average national fuel prices at the time of calculation. It’s important to understand that this is an estimate and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and fluctuations in gasoline prices. If you drive significantly fewer miles or live in an area with lower fuel costs, your annual expense could be less. Heavy-footed drivers should expect to exceed the $2,000 mark.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings offer a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG often differs. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel economy. Drivers living in hilly areas or frequently encountering heavy traffic should also anticipate lower numbers than the EPA estimates. Some drivers report city MPG figures in the low-to-mid teens if they’re primarily driving in dense urban environments. Highway MPG, however, is usually quite accurate, as long as you maintain a consistent speed and avoid excessive acceleration.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2019 Camaro 3.6L holds its own. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost, for example, manages a slightly better 25 MPG combined, while the Dodge Challenger SXT with its V6 engine delivers a similar 23 MPG combined. Within the Camaro lineup itself, the SS trim with the 6.2L V8 sees a significant drop in efficiency, down to around 20 MPG combined. The Mustang EcoBoost might tempt those who want to save on gas, but for drivers drawn to the Camaro’s styling and handling, the slight difference in MPG is often considered an acceptable trade-off. For a broader perspective, you can review all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle. The Camaro is no exception. Avoid flooring the accelerator unless necessary and anticipate traffic patterns to reduce the need for abrupt braking. The more smoothly you drive, the less fuel you’ll burn.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker located on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or cabin adds weight to the vehicle, which requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Remove any items you don’t need to carry to improve fuel efficiency.

Little things add up.

Minimize idling time. Idling wastes fuel, especially in modern vehicles that don’t require extended warm-up periods. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to conserve fuel. This is particularly effective in urban environments with frequent stops.

Regular maintenance is essential. Keeping your engine properly tuned and ensuring that all components are functioning at their best can improve fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly, including filter replacements. Always look at CAMARO MPG across all years.