15 MPG combined isn’t a number you’d typically brag about, but for the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT AWD, it’s almost not the point. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for saving money on gas, it’s a large three-row SUV powered by a loud 6.4L Hemi V8, made to haul families and tow trailers easily. Its owners want strong performance, a menacing exhaust, and track-day capability over fuel stops. They know what to expect.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Durango SRT 6.4L gets 13 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These numbers show what happens when driving a heavy, powerful SUV in stop-and-go traffic or on the open road. The city number shows how much gas the engine uses in demanding conditions. The highway estimate, while better, still lags behind more efficient SUVs, but that’s the price for this level of performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission tries to manage the engine’s power, but physics wins.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Dodge Durango SRT AWD 6.4L is $3,850. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your fuel costs will change depending on your driving, gas prices where you live, and how often you floor the gas pedal. $3,850 gives you a clear idea of the money required to keep this performance SUV fueled.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to match the EPA’s numbers. Real-world driving almost always gives you worse fuel economy, especially with a vehicle as fun to drive aggressively as the Durango SRT. Expect numbers near the low teens in mixed driving, and even single digits if you often accelerate quickly or tow something. Heavy traffic, cold weather, and even the tires you use can change your MPG. Owners wanting better fuel efficiency should review DURANGO MPG across all years to compare models.

How it compares

The Durango SRT doesn’t have exact competitors because of its specific mix of performance, size, and price. Looking at other performance SUVs shows some differences. The BMW X5 M, with its turbocharged V8, gets better fuel economy at around 16 MPG combined, however, it costs much more. A more utilitarian choice such as the Chevrolet Tahoe with the 6.2L V8, offers similar towing capability, but its fuel economy is around 14 MPG. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk, which tries to do the same thing, gets similar, or sometimes worse, fuel economy. The Durango SRT buyer is not cross-shopping a Toyota Highlander Hybrid (35 MPG combined). They know what they are buying and accept the fuel costs as part of the SRT experience.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Don’t always floor the gas pedal. The Durango SRT’s Hemi V8 reacts quickly, but every quick acceleration uses more gas. Accelerating slowly and keeping a steady speed will improve your MPG, even if you have to control yourself. If you want to examine all Dodge fuel economy data, you should practice ways to save fuel.

Tire pressure can also change fuel economy. Keep your tires at the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Checking your tire pressure can give surprising improvements.

Avoid idling. Modern engines are efficient even at startup, so idling wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is important in cities where traffic is common.

Think about using a lighter grade of fuel. The Durango SRT should use premium fuel for performance, using a mid-grade gasoline won’t hurt the engine and could save you money. Check your owner’s manual for advice, but this is an option, if available in your region.

Proper maintenance is key to efficiency. Make sure your Durango SRT gets regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which means better fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to keep your engine in top condition.