17 MPG combined is the price of admission to the uniquely American experience that is the Dodge Durango RWD with the 5.7L Hemi V8. This isn’t a vehicle chosen for its frugality; it’s selected for its reliable capability, muscular styling, and the unmistakable soundtrack of a naturally aspirated V8. The target customer cares about towing capacity, interior space, and making a statement, fuel economy is a secondary consideration, an accepted compromise for the performance and image the Durango delivers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the rear-wheel-drive 2024 Dodge Durango with the 5.7L V8 achieves 14 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure, predictably, is where the Hemi’s thirst is most evident. Stop-and-go traffic forces the engine to work harder, negating any potential efficiency gains. However, the 22 MPG rating on the highway is a respectable number for a vehicle of this size and power, demonstrating the benefits of the 8-speed automatic transmission during cruising. The transmission allows the engine to operate at lower RPMs, reducing fuel consumption when maintaining a steady speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this Durango configuration at $3,100. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, and uses the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s a useful baseline, but individual costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual proportion of city versus highway miles driven. Keep in mind, premium fuel is not required, but some owners report improved performance with higher octane gasoline. This, of course, would increase the annual fuel expenditure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a guideline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and extended idling can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Owners who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and minimize unnecessary idling are more likely to achieve fuel economy closer to the EPA estimates. Remember that tire pressure plays a role, so ensure proper inflation. Driving style has a big impact on this vehicle; heavy-footed drivers will see those MPG figures plummet quickly.

How it compares

The Durango’s fuel economy lands it in a specific segment populated by other powerful, practical, but not particularly efficient SUVs. A similarly equipped Ford Explorer with its 3.0L EcoBoost V6 achieves around 20 MPG combined, a noticeable advantage. Even the V6 Durango isn’t much better, hovering around 21 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Tahoe with its 5.3L V8 achieves almost-identical numbers, around 17 MPG combined. The Jeep Grand Cherokee L with its 5.7L V8 also mirrors these figures. For buyers cross-shopping these vehicles, the Durango’s aesthetic, towing capacity, and interior layout are usually the deciding factors, not a marginal difference in miles per gallon.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Durango’s Hemi V8 responds well to gentle inputs. Avoid harsh acceleration and braking whenever possible. The less work the engine has to do, the better the fuel economy will be. A smooth, consistent driving style will lead to noticeably improved mileage.

Tire pressure is important. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which directly translates to improved fuel efficiency. This is a simple maintenance task with a big payoff.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around cargo you don’t need puts extra strain on the engine. Remove any unnecessary items from the Durango to lighten the load and improve fuel economy. Every little bit helps, especially in city driving.

Plan your routes strategically. Minimize stop-and-go traffic by choosing routes that prioritize steady speeds and fewer intersections. Using cruise control on the highway can also help maintain a consistent speed, maximizing fuel efficiency. Also, don’t discount the value of using the Durango’s ECO mode.

Stay on top of regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine is an efficient engine. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections can help keep the Durango running smoothly and efficiently. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.

For all all Dodge fuel economy data explore FuelEconomyHub.com, and to compare DURANGO MPG across all years visit the Durango model page.