What the 2020 Charger's fuel consumption looks like
The 2020 Dodge Charger is a full-size sedan that comes in several engine options, and fuel economy varies significantly depending which one you choose. The base model with a 3.6-liter V6 engine gets an EPA estimate of 19 miles per gallon in the city and 30 on the highway, for a combined 23 mpg. If you step up to the 5.7-liter V8 engine, those numbers drop to 16 city, 25 highway, and 19 combined mpg.
The 2020 Charger does not come in a hybrid or fully electric version, so these gas-only figures represent your only options. The V6 is the more fuel-efficient choice if you prioritize lower consumption, while the V8 delivers more horsepower but burns more fuel per mile.
Key Takeaways
- The 2020 Charger with a V6 engine achieves 23 mpg combined, while the V8 model gets 19 mpg combined according to EPA estimates.
- Real-world fuel economy often runs lower than EPA estimates, especially if you drive mostly in the city or with a heavy foot on the accelerator.
- The 2020 Charger meets federal emissions standards for that model year but produces more greenhouse gases per gallon than smaller, more efficient vehicles.
- Dodge did not offer a plug-in hybrid or electric version of the Charger in 2020, so gas engines were the only powertrain choice.
How emissions standards worked in 2020
In 2020, all new cars sold in the United States had to meet the EPA's emissions standards for that year. The 2020 Charger passed those standards, meaning it met limits on nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and other pollutants that affect air quality. However, meeting the standard does not mean the car is low-emission — it means it falls within the legal range for its class.
Full-size sedans like the Charger are held to the same emissions rules as smaller cars, but because they are heavier and less efficient, they typically produce more total emissions per mile driven. A 2020 Charger V8 will emit more carbon dioxide over its lifetime than a 2020 Honda Civic, even though both meet 2020 standards.
EPA fuel economy ratings versus real-world driving
The EPA numbers you see on window stickers come from standardized lab tests, not from actual driving. These tests follow a set pattern of acceleration, braking, and speed that does not match how most people drive. In real conditions, many drivers see fuel economy 10 to 20 percent lower than the EPA estimate.
For a 2020 Charger V6 rated at 23 mpg combined, you might see 20 to 21 mpg in everyday driving, depending on your habits. Aggressive acceleration, highway speeds above 65 mph, and frequent idling all lower fuel economy further. Cold weather also reduces efficiency because engines run less efficiently until they warm up.
Comparing the 2020 Charger to other 2020 sedans
The 2020 Charger sits at the larger, less efficient end of the sedan market. A 2020 Toyota Camry with a four-cylinder engine gets 28 to 32 mpg combined depending on transmission type. A 2020 Honda Accord four-cylinder achieves 30 to 33 mpg combined. Even the 2020 Chevrolet Impala, another full-size sedan, gets 25 to 26 mpg combined with its V6 engine.
If fuel economy is your primary concern, the Charger is not the most efficient choice in its class. However, if you want a large, powerful sedan and are willing to accept higher fuel costs, the V6 option is more economical than the V8.
What affects your actual fuel economy
Several factors beyond the engine itself shape how much fuel you actually burn. Tire pressure matters — underinflated tires create more rolling resistance and lower mpg. Carrying heavy cargo or towing also reduces efficiency. Driving style has the biggest impact: smooth acceleration and steady speeds use less fuel than rapid starts and frequent braking.
Maintenance plays a role too. A clogged air filter, worn spark plugs, or misaligned wheels all reduce fuel economy. Keeping your 2020 Charger well-maintained helps you stay closer to the EPA estimate than you would otherwise.
Fuel tank size and driving range
The 2020 Charger has a 18.5-gallon fuel tank. With the V6 engine rated at 23 mpg combined, a full tank gives you a theoretical range of about 425 miles before empty. With the V8 at 19 mpg combined, you get roughly 350 miles per tank. Real-world range will be lower depending on your driving conditions and habits.
These ranges assume you drive until the tank is completely empty, which is not recommended. Most drivers refuel when the tank reaches one-quarter full, which means your actual driving distance between fill-ups will be shorter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2020 Charger have a hybrid option?
No. Dodge did not offer a hybrid version of the Charger in 2020. Your only choices were the 3.6-liter V6 or the 5.7-liter V8 gasoline engines. If you want a hybrid sedan from that year, you would need to look at other manufacturers like Toyota, Honda, or Hyundai.
What is the difference between EPA city and highway mpg ratings?
City driving involves frequent stops, starts, and lower speeds, which burns more fuel per mile. Highway driving at steady speeds is more efficient. The EPA tests both separately and then calculates a combined average. Your actual fuel economy depends on what percentage of your driving is city versus highway.
Can I improve my 2020 Charger's fuel economy?
You can improve it somewhat through maintenance and driving habits — keeping tires properly inflated, removing unnecessary weight, and avoiding aggressive acceleration all help. However, you cannot significantly change the fundamental efficiency of the engine itself. Aftermarket modifications rarely improve fuel economy and may void your warranty.
How does the 2020 Charger compare to electric vehicles in terms of emissions?
Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, though their total environmental impact depends on how the electricity grid generates power in your region. Over a lifetime, an electric vehicle typically produces far fewer emissions than a 2020 Charger, even accounting for electricity generation. However, EVs were more expensive in 2020 and had limited model availability compared to gas-powered cars.