15 MPG combined is the price you pay for the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT AWD. This vehicle prioritizes performance and a menacing look over saving money at the gas station. Nobody buys this Durango expecting Prius-like efficiency. They buy it for the rumble of the 6.4L Hemi V8 and the 475 horsepower that surges through all four wheels. It also can tow up to 8,700 pounds while hauling the kids to soccer practice. It’s a compromise, but one many are willing to make.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Durango SRT at 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, the engine’s displacement, and the Durango’s mass. The highway number, while still unimpressive by modern standards, is attainable during steady-state cruising, if you resist the urge to use the Hemi’s full potential every time you pass another car. Remember that these are just estimates. Your mileage will vary based on driving style and conditions.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Dodge Durango SRT AWD is $3,850. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. The calculation uses the national average fuel price at the time of estimation. It’s a substantial sum, and it highlights that owning this performance SUV is an expensive undertaking, even before factoring in insurance, maintenance, and speeding tickets. This alone pushes some families to consider other options, while others accept it as part of the price for owning this large SUV.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Durango SRT often falls short. Aggressive driving, a heavy foot, and frequent use of the Durango’s acceleration will contribute to lower MPG. Owners report averages closer to 11-12 MPG in combined driving, and often even lower in primarily city environments. Towing will decimate your fuel economy. If you’re regularly hauling heavy loads, expect single-digit MPG figures. If fuel economy is a serious concern, be sure to explore all Dodge fuel economy data to see other, more efficient models.

How it compares

The Durango SRT’s fuel economy is predictably poor compared to its competitors. The BMW X5 M50i, with its turbocharged V8, manages around 16 MPG combined. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S, while offering more power, is rated at 15 MPG combined as well. Even the less potent (but still quick) Durango R/T, with its 5.7L Hemi, achieves only 17 MPG combined. If you want something bigger, Escalade’s fuel economy is similar. These competitors all demonstrate that performance and fuel efficiency rarely coexist, especially in large, powerful SUVs. Consult the DURANGO MPG across all years for details.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its performance-oriented nature, there are steps you can take to improve the Durango SRT’s fuel economy. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking whenever possible. The Hemi V8 is happiest when driving in a high gear, and bursts of power will drain the fuel tank.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps the engine operate more efficiently and reduces unnecessary fluctuations in fuel consumption.

Consider a less aggressive tire. The SRT comes standard with high-performance tires that offer exceptional grip but also contribute to increased rolling resistance. Switching to a less aggressive all-season tire can improve fuel economy, though it will compromise the vehicle’s handling.