Do Dodge Challengers have good gas mileage?
Not really. In general, Dodge Challengers are not known for strong fuel economy, especially the high‑performance V8 versions. The V6 trims offer the best efficiency within the lineup, but even they are outclassed by many modern sedans and coupes dedicated to efficiency.
For context, the Challenger spans a range from a 3.6-liter V6 to several V8s with modern transmissions, and its weight and rear-wheel-drive layout work against mileage. It’s also worth noting that Dodge has positioned the Challenger as a performance car, and the latest model years (through the 2023 update cycle) reflect that priority. As of the 2023 model year, Dodge signaled the Challenger would continue in its current form through that year, with no new gasoline version planned beyond the last generation, which helps frame fuel economy expectations for current buyers.
Fuel economy by engine
Understanding mpg starts with the engine choice. Here is a concise guide to the official fuel-economy ranges you typically see across the Challenger lineup.
- 3.6L Pentastar V6 with an 8-speed automatic: roughly 19 mpg city, around 30 mpg highway, with a combined figure in the low-to-mid 20s (depending on year and configuration).
- 5.7L Hemi V8: typically in the high teens combined, often about 16–19 mpg combined (varies by transmission and year).
- 6.4L (392) V8: generally in the high teens to around 18 mpg combined, with city mpg dipping into the teens and highway mpg in the 20s.
- 6.2L supercharged Hellcat: commonly in the mid-teens combined, with city mpg in the low teens and highway mpg in the low 20s.
- 6.2L supercharged Redeye/Super Stock variants: the lowest end of the spectrum, often around 15 mpg combined or less, depending on driving and setup.
Note: These figures are EPA estimates and can vary by model year, transmission choice (manual vs. automatic where applicable), axle ratio, tires, and equipment. Real-world numbers are typically lower in city driving or when using aggressive driving modes.
Real-world factors that affect mpg
EPA ratings assume standard test conditions. Real-world mileage for Challengers can differ widely based on how you drive and how the car is configured.
- Weight and aerodynamics: The Challenger is a fairly heavy, blunt‑bodied car, which reduces efficiency at highway speeds and in stop‑and‑go traffic.
- Performance mode and throttle response: Using sport or track modes typically lowers mpg, especially with V8 engines.
- Driving environment: City driving with frequent accelerations drags down mpg more than steady highway cruising.
- Tire choice and maintenance: Wider tires and lower tire pressure reduce efficiency; proper inflation helps some.
- Transmission behavior: Shifts and torque delivery affect fuel use, with older automatics often less efficient than newer designs.
In practice, you’ll usually see higher mpg on the highway with the V6 and lower mpg with any of the V8s, especially under less efficient driving conditions.
Tips to maximize fuel economy
Even within a performance-heavy lineup, small changes can yield meaningful gains. Here are practical steps for better efficiency.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures to reduce rolling resistance.
- Reduce payload and unnecessary weight; remove roof racks or heavy accessories when not needed.
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and rapid throttle inputs; use smooth, gradual throttle application.
- Use the cruise control on long highway drives to maintain steady speeds and optimize efficiency when appropriate.
- Schedule regular maintenance (air filters, spark plugs, oxygen sensors) to ensure optimal engine performance.
These practices can help you squeeze a little more mpg out of a Challenger, especially on highway trips or daily commuting with a V6 configuration.
Summary
Bottom line: Dodge Challengers are not gas-mileage leaders. If fuel economy is a priority, the V6 is your best bet within the lineup, typically delivering better highway efficiency than the V8s. However, even the V6 remains a performance-focused car, and real-world mpg will vary widely with driving style and conditions. For dedicated efficiency, consider non‑muscle options or other models designed with fuel economy in mind.
