15 MPG combined, this figure immediately sets the 2020 Dodge Challenger SRT Widebody 6.2L 8-cyl apart from fuel-efficient vehicles. It’s not a typo, and it’s not a mistake. This is the price for a street-legal muscle car with a supercharged V8 made to destroy tires and dominate straight lines. The buyers of this car understand this trade-off, and they embrace it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates aren’t good if you want less gas, but they are realistic. You’re looking at 13 MPG in the city because of stop-and-go traffic and the temptation to unleash that supercharger at every green light. Out on the open highway, the numbers improve to 21 MPG. This isn’t to say you should expect 21 MPG on every road trip; consider this a theoretical maximum achievable with restraint. The reality is closer to the former number, especially with a big V8 engine.

Annual fuel cost

Get your wallet ready. According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2020 Dodge Challenger SRT Widebody 6.2L 8-cyl is $3,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. These are estimates based on the EPA’s fuel economy figures, meaning the real-world costs could vary depending on driving style, how much you drive, and where you live. This model requires premium fuel, which can further increase your expenses. Budget accordingly for this thirsty beast.

Real-world expectations

Forget what the window sticker says. In the real world, the 2020 Challenger SRT Widebody encourages you to use boost frequently. The engine’s sound is appealing, and the power delivery is addictive, both of which counteract any desire for efficient driving. Expect to see numbers closer to the city estimate even on longer journeys, particularly if “cruising” involves full-throttle acceleration. Owners should also consider costs associated with frequent tire replacements and the increased cost of maintenance on such a high-performance vehicle.

How it compares

The Challenger’s closest competitors don’t do much better in the fuel economy department. A Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, for example, gets roughly 14 MPG combined. A Chevrolet Camaro ZL1, even with its track prowess, delivers around 16 MPG combined. If you include other sporty coupes, the numbers improve, but you lose the Challenger’s distinct character and power. A BMW M4, for instance, gets around 19 MPG combined, a significant jump, but it is a different car with a smaller engine.

For buyers looking at all Dodge fuel economy data, there are more fuel-efficient options in the company’s lineup, none of which offer the Widebody’s visceral experience. If the priority is speed and presence, economy is secondary. The decision comes down to needs versus wants.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accept the reality, this car wasn’t built for economy. However, some techniques can help minimize your fuel consumption (but don’t expect miracles). Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking.

Getting into boost burns a lot of fuel. Use the Challenger’s drive modes to your advantage. Drive modes like “Street” calibrate the throttle sensitivity and shift points for less aggressive performance. Even the slightest shift in your setup can help you save on gas.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Check the pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels specified in the owner’s manual.

Consider a less aggressive driving route. Stop-and-go traffic eats fuel in any vehicle, but it’s particularly brutal with a large, powerful engine. Choosing longer routes with steady highway speeds can make a noticeable difference.

Remember that aftermarket modifications might decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, so consult with an expert before installing one. For CHALLENGER MPG across all years, remember that the V8 engine uses a lot of gas.