21 MPG combined won’t top any fuel economy lists, but for the 2020 Dodge Durango AWD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a figure most buyers find acceptable. People don’t buy this vehicle for hybrid-like efficiency. It’s a three-row SUV with real towing capacity, available all-wheel drive, and a muscular look that no minivan can match. The Durango buyer wants space and utility, and they like a bit of Dodge attitude with it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway show the Durango’s strengths and weaknesses. In the city, the Durango’s weight and naturally aspirated engine are drawbacks. Stop-and-go traffic hurts fuel economy, and you’ll see the fuel gauge drop faster than on the open road. However, the 8-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and helps the V6 make the most of its power.

On the highway, the Durango does better. Its aerodynamic profile is good for its size, and the engine cruises comfortably, making the 25 MPG figure achievable, even with a full load of passengers and cargo. While this model comes standard with RWD to improve MPG, the AWD will sacrifice that slight difference for better traction and safety in harsh weather conditions and uneven terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,100 for the 2020 Dodge Durango AWD 3.6L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The EPA also uses national average fuel prices to make this estimate, so your actual fuel costs may vary depending on where you live and how you drive. Fuel prices have risen significantly since this estimate was made, so Durango owners should expect to spend more each year at the pump. Owners can see all Dodge fuel economy data here.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy depends a lot on driving habits and conditions. Hard acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long idling times will all hurt fuel efficiency. Driving in hilly terrain or with a roof rack will also increase fuel consumption. Drivers who accelerate smoothly and anticipate traffic can sometimes match or even beat the EPA estimates, especially on long highway trips. Check out the DURANGO MPG across all years to compare performance across generations.

How it compares

The Durango’s fuel economy is similar to other V6-powered, three-row SUVs with all-wheel drive. For example, the Ford Explorer with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine gets slightly better MPG, around 24 MPG combined, but some buyers prefer the Durango’s more traditional SUV styling and V6 power. The Honda Pilot, known for its practicality, gets around 22 MPG combined, a slight advantage over the Durango. The Toyota Highlander, a popular choice, achieves similar figures to the Pilot. However, the Durango has more aggressive styling and an available HEMI engine, though the HEMI engine has even lower MPG. The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, newer SUVs, also have comparable fuel economy in the low 20s.

Ultimately, the choice depends on what’s most important. If fuel economy is critical, there are slightly more efficient options. But if you value towing capacity, bold styling, and a reliable feel, the Durango is still a good choice because of its towing and styling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The Durango is a heavy vehicle, and quick changes in speed require a lot of energy. Accelerate gradually from a stop and brake gently before traffic lights to improve fuel economy. The Durango’s V6 engine is responsive, but smooth and steady inputs are key to efficiency.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is especially important on a heavy SUV like the Durango, where tire pressure can change a lot.

Reduce idling. Letting the engine idle for long periods uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The Durango warms up quickly, so you won’t need to idle it for long, even in cold weather.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps keep a constant speed, which reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking, leading to better fuel economy. This works well on long, flat stretches of highway. Watch traffic and turn off cruise control when needed to keep a safe following distance.

Remove extra weight. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area and passenger seats. A lighter vehicle needs less energy to accelerate and keep speed, resulting in better MPG.