18 MPG combined won’t impress many, especially with hybrid SUVs and electric sedans available. But the 2020 Dodge Charger Widebody with the 6.4L V8 isn’t trying to appeal to those seeking lower fuel costs. It’s a statement, a throwback to when strong power and unapologetic swagger mattered more than sipping fuel. Buyers of this car aren’t cross-shopping it with a Prius; they want a loud, comfortable muscle sedan, and they’re willing to pay for it at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. That city figure is brutal, but not unexpected. A large displacement V8 hauling around a widebody car in stop-and-go traffic consumes a lot of fuel. The highway figure is more respectable, and drivers who spend much of their commute on the open road will benefit most. Even on the highway, the Charger’s size and aerodynamic profile hurt its efficiency. The 8-speed automatic transmission tries to keep the engine in its optimal range, but this is a thirsty machine. Owners need to drive calmly and anticipate traffic flow to keep the highway figures accurate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA says the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Dodge Charger Widebody 6.4L V8 is $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Real-world costs can vary significantly depending on driving habits, location, and fuel prices. Drivers who accelerate quickly and live in areas with high gas taxes can expect to spend much more than the EPA estimate. Those who mainly cruise on the highway and live in states with lower fuel costs might see slightly lower expenses. Still, $3,200 reminds you of the cost of owning a high-performance V8 sedan.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a good baseline, but your mileage will vary. Owners used to driving more efficient vehicles will be shocked if they expect to achieve anything close to the EPA numbers in daily driving. The temptation to accelerate and hear that V8 roar is always there, and every burst of acceleration reduces fuel economy. Expect to see numbers closer to 12-13 MPG in the city with enthusiastic driving and closer to 20 MPG on longer highway trips if you are careful. Track your own fuel consumption using a fuel tracking app or by recording fill-ups, and adjust your driving.

How it compares

The Charger Widebody stacks up as expected compared to its rivals. The Ford Mustang GT with the Performance Pack earns 18 MPG combined as well, but some drivers find fuel economy is better thanks to its lighter curb weight and different driving dynamics. The Chevrolet Camaro SS, slightly smaller and more nimble and also with 18 MPG combined, appeals to a different buyer. If you are interested in all Dodge fuel economy data, you’ll see that most other vehicles of similar performance from Dodge will hover around this range. The key point is that if you are looking at this segment, fuel economy is likely not your main concern.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2020 Charger Widebody 6.4L isn’t known for fuel efficiency, but there are ways to get more miles out of each gallon. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as they dramatically decrease fuel economy. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and reduce unnecessary throttle inputs.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regularly check and adjust tire pressure, especially during temperature changes.

Remove excess weight from the vehicle. Items in the trunk or back seat add unnecessary load, reducing fuel efficiency. Minimize clutter and only carry essential items. The lighter you travel, the less work the engine has to do.

Consider using the Charger’s Eco mode, if equipped. It will remap the throttle response and shift points, optimizing the car for efficiency. While it may reduce the performance somewhat, it can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption during city driving. Eco mode is especially useful during long highway cruises.

Finally, keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, and ensure that the air filter is clean. Check your engine’s computer to ensure there aren’t any hidden software or mechanical errors. Drivers can research optimal CHARGER MPG across all years to familiarize themselves with typical behavior.