19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2023 Dodge Challenger with the 5.7L V8, it’s almost beside the point. This isn’t a car bought for hypermiling; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that you value visceral thrills and old-school muscle car character over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of gasoline. Drivers are willing to accept this fuel economy as the price of admission to the Challenger experience. Performance and presence are the priorities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8 at 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Challenger’s weight and engine displacement take their toll. Highway driving, with its more consistent speeds, allows the engine to settle into a less demanding operating range, contributing to the higher MPG number. However, lead-footed drivers should expect the highway number to dip considerably. Those opting for the manual transmission will see numbers align closely to the automatic.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Dodge Challenger 5.7L V8 at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, the actual amount you spend on fuel will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city vs. highway), and local fuel prices. It’s safe to say, however, that this Challenger is not a budget-friendly choice for those concerned primarily with minimizing running costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Challenger 5.7L V8 can vary significantly. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, and even tire pressure can all impact your MPG. Drivers who frequently indulge in the Challenger’s considerable performance capabilities will likely see numbers closer to the lower end of the EPA range, or even below it. Conversely, those who adopt a more relaxed driving style and minimize aggressive acceleration may be able to achieve figures closer to, or slightly above, the EPA estimates. Be sure to check CHALLENGER MPG across all years if you are considering other model years of this vehicle.

How it compares

Compared to other muscle cars, the Challenger 5.7L V8’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. The Ford Mustang GT, with its 5.0L V8, achieves a similar 15 MPG city and 24 MPG highway. The Chevrolet Camaro LT1, also with a V8, posts numbers in the same ballpark. Even within the Challenger lineup, stepping up to the larger and more powerful 6.4L V8 will naturally result in even lower fuel economy. The R/T Scat Pack trim, for example, drops to 15 MPG combined. Considering all Dodge fuel economy data, the Challenger 5.7L finds itself firmly within the range of its peers. This comparison matters because buyers in this segment often have multiple cars on their short list and will naturally cross-shop the competition.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Challenger 5.7L V8 isn’t inherently fuel-efficient, there are steps you can take to improve its MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking; smooth and steady driving will significantly reduce fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed when possible, as frequent changes in pace eat into fuel reserves.

Properly inflate your tires to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust as needed; this small task can make a noticeable difference over time.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by avoiding prolonged idling can add up, especially in city driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. However, be mindful of hills, as the system may downshift aggressively to maintain speed, negating some of the benefits.

Keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Ensure that your Challenger receives regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and other scheduled services as recommended by the manufacturer. A clean engine breathes easier and burns fuel more effectively, and you can review all Dodge fuel economy data to see if this year differs from others when properly maintained.