16 MPG combined from the 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L isn’t a misprint, it’s a declaration. This isn’t a car about sipping fuel; it’s about unrestrained power, a visceral driving experience, and a healthy dose of unapologetic American muscle. The person who buys this car isn’t prioritizing fuel efficiency, they’re prioritizing exhilaration. They understand the trade-off and accept it as part of the Challenger SRT’s unique character.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Challenger SRT’s 6.2L supercharged V8 are 13 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of urban driving, where frequent acceleration and idling impact fuel consumption. The highway number is more reasonable, but achieving it requires restraint. The moment you tap into that deep well of horsepower for passing or merging, even on the open road, those numbers will drop.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT 6.2L is $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. However, premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance, and that tends to be more expensive than regular gasoline. Keep in mind that aggressive driving will push this figure significantly higher. Few Challenger SRT owners will actually achieve $3,600 in annual fuel cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Challenger SRT owners report significantly lower figures than the official estimates, particularly in mixed driving conditions. The temptation to launch hard from a standstill or execute a perfectly timed downshift is simply too strong for many. Factor in driving habits and local traffic conditions, and you will likely see numbers closer to 10-12 MPG in the city and maybe 18-20 MPG on the highway during spirited drives. But if you are interested in what other owners are getting, you can review CHALLENGER MPG across all years to see various real-world examples.

How it compares

Comparing the Challenger SRT to other cars in its class highlights just how far down the list of cars with less gas it ranks. The Ford Mustang GT, for example, achieves around 15 MPG city and 24 MPG highway with the automatic transmission, slightly better than the Challenger. The Chevrolet Camaro SS lands in a similar range, making around 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The BMW M4 Competition Coupe gets 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, exhibiting the better characteristics of a luxury sport coupe. Although all these vehicles are far apart in luxury, price, and brand, the fuel performance is similar. This explains why the Challenger SRT buyer is willing to trade fuel economy for a combination of raw power, retro style, and V8 rumble that few modern cars can match. For those looking for higher MPG numbers within the Dodge lineup, see all Dodge fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly demonstrate the Challenger SRT’s power. Smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can significantly improve fuel economy. Every hard launch and unnecessary burst of speed burns fuel that could be saved with a more measured approach.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated and regularly check their pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Refer to the sticker on the driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure.

Minimize idling. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary, and prolonged idling wastes gas unnecessarily. If you anticipate a wait of more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Stick to the recommended octane fuel. While the Challenger SRT might run on lower octane fuel, premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Using the right fuel ensures the engine operates at its peak efficiency.