16 MPG combined is the price of admission to the 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L club. Let’s be honest, nobody shelling out for a supercharged muscle car like this is prioritizing fuel efficiency. They want raw power, aggressive styling, tire-shredding performance, and the snarling soundtrack of a Hemi V8. If you are cross-shopping this Challenger against a Prius, you are deeply confused. You’re buying a statement, and that statement involves gasoline. The MPG is simply a number you acknowledge before mashing the throttle.

City and highway performance

Those 16 combined MPG break down to 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway, according to the EPA. The city figure reflects the Challenger SRT’s hefty weight and the engine’s natural inclination to consume fuel during stop-and-go driving. The highway number is a bit more palatable and achievable if you resist the urge to bury the accelerator every time you pass another car. The 8-speed automatic transmission helps on the highway, allowing the engine to cruise at relatively low RPMs when not provoked. Still, sustained high-speed runs, even without aggressive driving, will impact fuel economy noticeably due to wind resistance and the sheer power required to maintain those speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended (or outright required, depending on the model year) for optimal performance, so that fuel price calculation will likely skew higher than regular unleaded. Also consider that given the typical driver who purchases this type of vehicle, this 15,000 mile number may be significantly surpassed, further adding to the cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy will vary based on your driving habits. Expect the city MPG to drop even further if you spend a lot of time in heavy traffic or enjoy frequent bursts of acceleration. On the highway, you might see slightly better than 22 MPG if you drive conservatively and maintain a steady speed. However, repeated launches, spirited backroad excursions, or consistent high-speed cruising will take their toll. Consider these EPA estimates a best-case scenario if you can resist the temptation this car presents.

How it compares

Compared to other performance cars, the Challenger SRT’s fuel economy is predictably low. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT350, with its 5.2L V8, is rated at 16 MPG combined, mirroring the Challenger’s figure. The Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, packing a supercharged 6.2L V8 similar to the Challenger, manages a slightly better 16 MPG combined. These differences are largely academic, however, as anyone strongly considering these vehicles will likely treat fuel costs as a secondary concern. Even considering all Dodge fuel economy data, most are not as extreme as this Challenger. For those looking for better fuel economy, it is wise to consider CHALLENGER MPG across all years, as other models may better suite your needs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be your top priority, there are a few things you can do to squeeze a bit more range out of each tank. Soften your acceleration and avoid sudden braking. The Challenger SRT’s powerful engine responds quickly to throttle inputs, so practice using a gentle touch to minimize fuel consumption.

Use cruise control whenever possible on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps the engine operate more efficiently, reducing fuel waste. Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels listed on the door jamb.

Avoid excessive idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and easily, so idling is simply wasting fuel.

Consider using a less aggressive driving mode, if equipped. The Challenger SRT might offer different driving modes that adjust throttle response and transmission settings. Selecting a more fuel-efficient mode can help you conserve fuel during everyday driving.