19 MPG combined will deter some buyers, and that’s likely intentional. The 2022 Dodge Challenger with the 5.7L V8 isn’t designed for fuel efficiency. It’s about providing a visceral driving experience that evokes classic American muscle cars. It’s not a commuter car, it’s a statement. For a specific driver, the fuel consumption is simply part of owning the car.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8 are 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s power and the car’s weight, which leads to more fuel burned during stop-and-go driving. On the open road, the 8-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range when cruising, contributing to the slightly better 25 MPG highway rating. If you resist the urge to accelerate often, you’ll see that number drop quickly. These ratings are achievable if you drive with restraint, but who buys a Challenger expecting to drive that way?

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8 is $2,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a significant expense, especially compared to more fuel-efficient vehicles. Premium fuel is recommended, though not required, so your costs could rise. This estimate also assumes a mix of city and highway driving. If your commute is almost exclusively city driving, expect to pay more. Those considering a Challenger need to factor this ongoing expense into their budget, performance has a price.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies depending on driving habits. Drivers who enjoy the Challenger’s performance can expect numbers closer to the lower end, potentially dipping below the EPA estimates in both city and highway driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and spirited driving all increase fuel consumption. Drivers who adopt a more conservative style and minimize unnecessary acceleration may achieve fuel economy figures closer to the EPA estimates. Ultimately, the Challenger’s fuel economy depends on the driver’s behavior.

How it compares

Compared to other muscle cars, the 2022 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8’s fuel economy is comparable. The Ford Mustang GT with its 5.0L V8 achieves an EPA-estimated 15 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, while the Chevrolet Camaro with the 6.2L V8 posts 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. For those seeking better fuel economy, the Mustang EcoBoost trim manages around 25 MPG combined. The Challenger’s numbers highlight the trade-off in this vehicle category: performance versus efficiency. Buyers choosing the Challenger are typically less concerned with maximizing fuel economy and more interested in the V8 experience. You can review all Dodge fuel economy data here. If you’re still interested, be sure to compare all CHALLENGER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2022 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8 isn’t designed for optimal fuel efficiency, you can take steps to minimize fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. Smooth, consistent driving will help keep the engine in its most efficient range, reducing fuel consumption without sacrificing too much fun.

Ensure the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. A simple check can lead to improvements.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern starting systems handle frequent starts without causing excessive wear.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a steady speed helps optimize fuel economy, particularly on long highway trips. Cruise control minimizes speed fluctuations, leading to consistent fuel consumption and better highway fuel efficiency, assuming the terrain isn’t too hilly.

Consider using the manual shift mode on the automatic transmission, if equipped. Anticipating gear changes and keeping the engine in its optimal power band can help improve fuel economy, particularly in city driving. Experiment with shift points to find the most efficient approach without sacrificing driving enjoyment.