The 2013 Dodge Charger's fuel economy and emissions ratings

The 2013 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that came in several engine options, each with different fuel economy and emissions performance. The base model used a 3.6-liter V6 engine, while higher trims offered a 5.7-liter V8 or a 6.4-liter V8. Your fuel economy depends entirely on which engine your vehicle has, along with whether you have an automatic or manual transmission and whether you drive mostly on highways or in cities.

The V6 model achieved approximately 25 miles per gallon on the highway and 16 miles per gallon in the city. The 5.7-liter V8 got around 23 miles per gallon on the highway and 15 miles per gallon in the city. The 6.4-liter V8, available only in the SRT8 performance model, delivered roughly 22 miles per gallon on the highway and 14 miles per gallon in the city. These figures assume normal driving conditions and regular maintenance.

Key Takeaways

  • The 2013 Charger's fuel economy ranges from 14 to 25 mpg depending on engine size, with the V6 being the most efficient option.
  • All 2013 Charger models meet federal emissions standards for that model year, which were less strict than current standards.
  • Highway driving produces better fuel economy than city driving across all engine options.
  • Regular maintenance, including air filter replacement and proper tire pressure, helps your vehicle maintain its rated fuel economy.

How the V6 engine compares to the V8 options

The 3.6-liter V6 is the most fuel-efficient choice if you own a 2013 Charger. This engine produces 292 horsepower and delivers the best balance between performance and fuel consumption. If you drive mostly in cities or on shorter trips, the V6 will cost you less at the pump than either V8 option.

The 5.7-liter V8 adds more power—370 horsepower—but uses noticeably more fuel. The difference between the V6 and the 5.7-liter V8 is roughly 2 miles per gallon in both city and highway driving. The 6.4-liter V8, found only in the SRT8 model, is the most powerful at 470 horsepower but also the thirstiest, consuming about 1 to 3 more gallons per 100 miles of driving compared to the 5.7-liter V8.

Understanding your 2013 Charger's emissions classification

The 2013 Dodge Charger meets the Tier 2 emissions standards that were in effect when it was manufactured. These standards limit how much nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and other pollutants your vehicle can release. All 2013 Chargers passed these federal requirements at the time of production, though the standards have become stricter in the years since.

Your specific emissions rating depends on which engine your Charger has and which state you live in. Some states, including California, have stricter emissions rules than the federal baseline. If you live in one of these states, your 2013 Charger must still meet those state-level requirements. You can find your vehicle's specific emissions tier on the emissions label under the hood or in your owner's manual.

What affects your real-world fuel economy

The fuel economy numbers listed above are EPA estimates, but what you actually see at the pump depends on several factors. Aggressive acceleration and braking, frequent idling, and driving in stop-and-go traffic all reduce fuel economy below the EPA estimate. Conversely, steady highway driving at moderate speeds often meets or exceeds the estimate.

Your vehicle's condition also matters. A clogged air filter, underinflated tires, or a misaligned engine can all reduce fuel economy by 5 to 10 percent. Keeping your tires at the pressure listed on the driver's door jamb and replacing your air filter according to your owner's manual helps maintain the fuel economy your Charger was designed to deliver. Using the recommended grade of motor oil also plays a role—thicker oil creates more drag inside the engine.

Maintenance that supports fuel efficiency

Regular maintenance directly affects how much fuel your 2013 Charger uses. An engine that is out of tune, with worn spark plugs or a faulty oxygen sensor, burns more fuel to produce the same power. Following your owner's manual's maintenance schedule—typically including oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, air filter replacement every 15,000 to 30,000 miles, and spark plug replacement every 30,000 miles—keeps your engine running at its intended efficiency.

Wheel alignment is another often-overlooked factor. Misaligned wheels create drag that forces your engine to work harder, reducing fuel economy. If your Charger pulls to one side or your steering wheel is off-center, have the alignment checked. Similarly, a worn transmission or low transmission fluid can reduce efficiency, so have your transmission serviced according to the schedule in your owner's manual.

How to read your vehicle's emissions label

Open your hood and look on the inside of the hood or on the driver's side fender. You will find a white or yellow label that lists your vehicle's emissions information. This label shows the emissions tier your Charger meets, the engine size, and sometimes the transmission type. The label also notes whether your vehicle is certified for sale in California or the rest of the United States, since California has its own emissions rules.

This label is important if you ever need to verify your vehicle's emissions status for registration, inspection, or when selling the car. Keep a photo of this label in your records. If the label is missing or illegible, your owner's manual contains the same information, or you can contact a Dodge dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN) to confirm your emissions tier.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a 2013 Charger pass modern emissions tests?

A 2013 Charger meets the emissions standards that were in place when it was built, but those standards are now over a decade old. Whether it passes a current inspection depends on your state's rules. Some states use older standards for older vehicles, while others explore current standards to all cars. Check your state's emissions testing requirements or contact your local testing facility.

Can I improve my Charger's fuel economy with aftermarket parts?

Some aftermarket parts claim to improve fuel economy, but results vary widely. Cold air intakes and performance chips may increase power but often reduce fuel economy. Your best return comes from maintenance: keeping your engine tuned, your tires properly inflated, and your air filter clean. Driving habits matter more than parts—steady speeds and smooth acceleration deliver better fuel economy than aggressive driving.

What is the difference between city and highway mpg?

Highway driving uses less fuel per mile because your engine runs at a steady speed with fewer stops and starts. City driving requires constant acceleration and braking, which burns more fuel. The EPA tests both scenarios separately to give you realistic numbers for how you actually drive. If you drive mostly highways, expect fuel economy closer to the highway number; if you drive mostly cities, expect closer to the city number.

Should I use premium or regular gasoline in my 2013 Charger?

Your owner's manual specifies the minimum octane rating your Charger needs. Most 2013 Chargers with the V6 or 5.7-liter V8 run fine on regular 87-octane gasoline. The 6.4-liter V8 in the SRT8 model requires premium 91-octane fuel. Using a lower octane than recommended can cause engine knock and reduce fuel economy, while using a higher octane than required does not improve performance or economy.