23 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Dodge Challenger SXT. It’s not a particularly impressive figure compared to other cars, but that’s likely not the main concern for Challenger buyers. They want the Challenger’s retro styling, muscular design, comfortable interior, and available performance upgrades more than great gas mileage. It’s trading some fuel economy for a classic American look.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Dodge Challenger SXT, which has a 3.6L V6 and eight-speed automatic transmission, are 19 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city MPG is lower because the engine works harder in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number shows the MPG you can get when cruising at a steady speed. These figures are achieved with regular unleaded fuel. Premium fuel won’t help. If you spend most of your time commuting in stop-and-go traffic, expect to see around 18 MPG in the real world.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Dodge Challenger SXT is $1,900 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually and on average gas prices. What you actually pay will depend on how you drive, where you live, and gas prices. Driving fast, taking many short trips, and living where gas is expensive will raise your fuel costs. This $1,900 estimate lets you compare it to other vehicles. To compare, explore all Dodge fuel economy data on our site.

Real-world expectations

The EPA uses a standard test, but real-world MPG is often different. Challenger SXT owners often report getting around 22 MPG in mixed driving. This is close to the EPA’s combined figure, so the official estimates are fairly accurate. How you drive makes a big difference. Driving aggressively will lower fuel economy, but smooth acceleration and keeping a consistent speed can help you reach or exceed the EPA’s estimates. Tire pressure and how well you maintain your car also matter.

How it compares

The 2019 Challenger SXT’s fuel economy is about average for the sporty coupe class. The Ford Mustang EcoBoost gets 25 MPG combined, and the Chevrolet Camaro 2.0T gets 25 MPG combined. Those cars are smaller with a different driving feel. The Challenger’s main draw is its retro design and spacious interior, not its fuel efficiency. The V8-powered Challenger R/T gets much lower MPG, at 19 MPG combined.

Consider that some buyers also look at larger sedans like the Chrysler 300, which gets 23 MPG combined with the same 3.6L V6. If you want more space and a smoother ride, but still want a muscle car, the 300 is an option. This shows why actual CHALLENGER MPG across all years matters.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate smoothly to save gas in the 2019 Challenger SXT. Don’t accelerate hard or push the gas pedal too much. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts quickly to save gas, so let it do its job.

Keep your tires inflated to the right pressure. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, so the engine has to work harder and burns more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the levels on the driver’s side door. It’s especially important on a large vehicle.

Avoid idling. Idling wastes gas and lowers your MPG. If you’ll be stopped for a while, like in a parking lot, turn off the engine. Modern engines are made to restart fast.

Use cruise control on the highway when you can. Cruise control keeps a constant speed, which reduces how much you speed up and slow down, saving gas. Use cruise control, especially on long drives.