16 MPG combined. Anyone considering a 2020 Dodge Challenger SRT with the 6.2L supercharged V8 isn’t exactly prioritizing fuel efficiency. This isn’t a commuter car for maximizing MPGs, it’s a tire-shredding, quarter-mile-dominating muscle car, and the fuel economy is simply the price of admission. The buyers of this car know exactly what they’re getting into, massive power, aggressive styling, and a fuel bill that reflects the fun they’re having.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Challenger SRT 6.2L place city driving at a thirsty 13 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic and the irresistible urge to dip into the throttle are the enemies here. On the open road, the Challenger fares somewhat better, achieving 22 MPG on the highway. Credit the eight-speed automatic transmission’s ability to find a comfortable cruising gear and the engine’s cylinder deactivation system, which, under light loads, shuts down cylinders to conserve fuel. But sustained highway cruising is not why most people buy this car.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this car at $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway. It also uses the national average fuel price. It’s a useful benchmark, but remember that your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel prices. If you frequently launch the car, expect to spend significantly more than $3,600. If you pamper it and live in a place with low fuel prices, you might spend less. But if a few thousand dollars in fuel costs is a deal-breaker, this isn’t the car for you.

Real-world expectations

Those EPA numbers can be considered a best-case scenario. Real-world fuel economy for the 2020 Challenger SRT 6.2L typically falls slightly below the official estimates. Aggressive driving, which is almost unavoidable in a car this powerful, will further erode your MPG. Short trips and colder weather can also negatively impact fuel efficiency. A lead foot will result in fuel costs well beyond the EPA estimate.

How it compares

Compared to other performance cars, the Challenger SRT’s fuel economy is predictably poor. The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, while also packing a supercharged V8, manages a slightly better 14 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. The Chevy Camaro ZL1, another supercharged V8 competitor, manages 13 MPG city and 21 MPG highway. Now, consider that even a V6-powered muscle car like the Mustang EcoBoost achieves around 22 MPG combined. But comparing the Challenger SRT to these models is missing the point. Buyers aren’t cross-shopping for fuel economy, they’re seeking a specific driving experience that prioritizes power and sound above all else. You can compare all Dodge fuel economy data to see the range of efficiency available in the brand’s lineup. And for the full picture on this body style, review the CHALLENGER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While fuel economy might not be the primary concern for Challenger SRT owners, there are still ways to minimize fuel consumption without sacrificing too much enjoyment. Avoid excessive acceleration, both from a stop and when already moving. The temptation to unleash the supercharger is strong, but resisting that urge will save fuel.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control can help to prevent unintentional speed fluctuations and reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a safe following distance to minimize the need for sudden braking and acceleration. Coasting to red lights instead of braking at the last second will also conserve fuel.

Ensure that your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which decreases fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly. Remove any unnecessary weight from the car. Every extra pound reduces fuel efficiency.

Consider the type of fuel you’re using. Although the Challenger SRT doesn’t require premium fuel, it’s recommended, and in many cases, helps with the car’s overall performance. In return, it can actually burn fuel more efficiently in normal conditions.

Finally, remember the Challenger SRT isn’t meant to be babied. Letting the car sit for long periods of time affects the battery and other integral engine components. Occasional, properly warmed-up, engine-clearing drives (within the speed limit) will keep the car running efficiently, and reliably, for years to come.