18 MPG combined. Let’s be honest, anyone considering a 2021 Dodge Challenger Widebody with the 6.4L Hemi isn’t prioritizing fuel efficiency. They’re after a different kind of thrill, the visceral punch of AmericanMuscle, the growl of a naturally aspirated V8, and the unapologetic presence that only a widebody Challenger can deliver. Fuel costs are simply a price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2021 Challenger Widebody 6.4L are 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the realities of a large-displacement engine working hard to move a hefty coupe. The city MPG suffers due to frequent stop-and-go driving where the engine is doing the most work while also needing to overcome inertia repeatedly. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel consumption in various driving conditions, but it fundamentally can’t make this big V8 sip fuel like a hybrid. Highway figures are better, but even on the open road, the temptation to tap into that readily available horsepower usually suppresses the MPG by a few points.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Dodge Challenger Widebody 6.4L is approximately $3,200. This is derived from an assumption of 15,000 miles driven annually, using a national average fuel price (which fluctuates, of course). This figure gives potential buyers a baseline idea of what to expect annually in fuel expenses. Individual driving habits and local fuel prices will either increase or decrease this final cost.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but don’t expect to consistently achieve the advertised figures in your daily driving. If you live in an area with heavy traffic or enjoy frequent spirited acceleration, your MPG will likely fall below the official estimates. If you primarily cruise on the highway and resist the urge to unleash the Hemi’s full potential, you might see slightly better numbers.

Driver behavior drastically affects fuel economy with a vehicle as powerful and responsive as the Challenger Widebody.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the Challenger Widebody 6.4L’s fuel economy is firmly in the “muscle car thirst” category. A Ford Mustang GT with the 5.0L V8 and automatic transmission achieves around 19 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Camaro SS, powered by a 6.2L V8, hovers at similar figures, typically around 19 MPG combined.

These competitors offer engaging performance, and are only marginally more fuel-efficient. The buyers of the Challenger Widebody 6.4L aren’t cross-shopping against Priuses. They are more concerned with bragging rights at the drag strip, and the rumble of that engine drowns out any lingering MPG anxiety. If you want to explore all Dodge fuel economy data, or want to compare CHALLENGER MPG across all years, we have that information as well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly accelerate aggressively. The Hemi V8 offers seemingly endless power, but each hard launch and high-speed burst of acceleration consumes fuel at an alarming rate. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a steady speed will significantly improve your fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary throttle inputs and can noticeably boost your MPG during long drives. Cruise control is your best friend on the open road, keeping your foot from unnecessarily dipping into the gas pedal.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the door jamb sticker.

Avoid excessive idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods burns fuel without moving the car. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine to conserve fuel.

Properly maintain your vehicle. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other scheduled maintenance items ensure that your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine operates at peak performance, which contributes to better fuel economy and, keeps the Challenger Widebody on the road and away from the repair shop.