Is Dodge good on gas?
Short answer: Generally, no—Dodge’s lineup emphasizes performance, so fuel economy is typically moderate to low, especially with V8 engines and larger vehicles. There are more efficient options in the lineup, notably smaller turbo engines and newer electrified variants, but gas mileage isn’t the brand’s strongest selling point.
To understand how that applies in practice, it helps to look at how Dodge segments its vehicles, which engines power them, and how drivetrain choices affect efficiency. Dodge’s muscle cars and large SUVs are designed for speed and capability, often at the cost of fuel efficiency. In contrast, some newer models and trims offer better mileage, though they still lag behind many non-performance rivals in the same segments. As of recent years, Dodge has introduced smaller, more efficient options such as the Hornet, while keeping many traditional gas-powered powertrains in its lineup. Always check the EPA-rated figures for the exact model year and configuration you’re considering.
Dodge lineup and fuel economy in practice
The following overview highlights how fuel economy typically varies by vehicle category within the Dodge lineup:
- Muscle cars (Challenger, Charger): Vehicles with V6 engines are generally the most efficient in this group, but V8 models, especially with performance packages, tend to deliver the lowest mpg. Overall, mpg figures are typically in the low 20s combined for V6 trims and can fall into the teens for V8 configurations depending on drivetrain and tuning.
- SUVs (Durango and smaller offerings): The Durango with a V6 offers better mileage than its V8 counterparts, but even the V6 is heavier than a typical sedan, which keeps mpg moderate. V8 Durangos historically drop into the low 20s combined or lower, depending on options and drive configuration.
- Newer, smaller models and electrified options: Dodge has introduced smaller, more efficient choices such as the Hornet, which is designed to offer better efficiency than the big, older-for-its-class powertrains. Availability of hybrid or plug-in variants varies by market and year, and these configurations typically yield higher mpg than traditional gas-powered Dodge models.
Concluding paragraph: If fuel economy is a priority, compare the exact EPA ratings for the specific year and trim you’re considering, because there can be meaningful differences even within the same model due to engine choice, drivetrain, and equipment.
Dodge models that tend to offer relatively better mileage
These notes identify the more fuel-efficient ends of Dodge’s current offerings, though numbers vary by year and configuration:
- Challenger and Charger with the 3.6-liter V6 or turbocharged four-cylinder options generally deliver better mileage than their V8 counterparts, though still within the mid- to upper-20s mpg combined depending on drivetrain and tires.
- Durango with the V6 engine typically provides the best mileage among Dodge’s larger SUVs, with mpg in the mid-20s combined in many trims; V8 versions are notably less efficient.
- The Hornet represents Dodge’s effort toward more efficiency in a smaller footprint, with powertrain choices designed to improve highway efficiency versus older Dodge crossovers and muscle-car platforms. Confirm current specifications for the latest figures.
Bottom line: If you’re shopping with fuel economy in mind, prioritize engines and trims that prioritize efficiency and always verify the EPA estimates for the exact configuration you want.
Strategies for maximizing mpg in a Dodge
Fuel economy can be improved with careful choices and driving habits. Here are practical steps:
- Choose the most efficient engine and trim within your needs; avoid high-performance packages that add weight and power without a proportional gain in mpg.
- Prefer rear-wheel drive when possible, and avoid all-wheel drive if you don’t need it for weather or terrain, as AWD usually reduces mpg.
- Keep tires properly inflated, remove unnecessary cargo, and minimize roof racks or spoilers that increase aerodynamic drag.
- Maintain regular service, including spark plugs, air filters, and alignment, to keep efficiency at expected levels.
- Adopt steady, economical driving habits (steady speeds, gradual acceleration, and minimizing aggressive braking) and use any eco or efficiency modes offered by the vehicle.
These steps can help improve real-world mileage, but the magnitude of gains will depend on the exact model and driving conditions.
What to consider when shopping for fuel economy
When evaluating Dodge options with fuel economy in mind, consider these steps to make a informed choice:
- Look up the EPA fuel economy ratings for the exact model year, engine, drivetrain, and tires you’re considering.
- Estimate annual fuel costs based on your typical driving pattern (city vs. highway) and local fuel prices.
- Test drive with attention to engine responsiveness, transmission behavior, and real-world mpg in mixed conditions.
- Factor in maintenance costs and potential resale value, which can be influenced by overall efficiency and popularity of the model.
By following these steps, you’ll have a clearer view of which Dodge configuration best matches your fuel-economy goals.
Summary
Dodge’s identity is built around performance, which generally means lower fuel economy compared with some rivals. Within the lineup, smaller engines and newer efficiency-focused options offer better mpg than the big V8-powered models, but even those gains are modest by non-performance standards. For buyers prioritizing mileage, focus on engine choice, drivetrain, and exact EPA ratings for the chosen year and trim, and consider overall ownership costs in addition to miles-per-gallon. Always verify current specs from the manufacturer or the EPA for the most accurate figures.
