Chrysler Adds Power, Improves Gas Mileage
Earlier this week, we discussed how year-to-year engineering and tuning changes have eked out better fuel economy estimates for several GM, Hyundai and Ford cars. Now, Chrysler enters the fray with an extensively updated Hemi and improved mpg updates for the Chrysler Sebring and Dodge Avenger twins as well as the Dodge Caliber.
Most of the 2009s are already on sale along with their heavily discounted 2008 counterparts.
The 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 is a Chrysler staple that’s available in its large SUVs, large sedans and trucks, as well as the coveted Dodge Challenger. The all-new Hemi delivers, on average, 5% better fuel economy than its predecessor, along with nearly 30 more horsepower and more torque, thanks in part to the new powertrain’s variable valve timing. Also, Chrysler’s multi-displacement system – which allows the V-8 to run on four cylinders at highway speeds – is updated, allowing it to stay in four-cylinder mode longer. The end result may be just one or two added miles per gallon, but when paired to the added power, these numbers are impressive.
A detailed list of the fuel economy, performance upgrades is below.
Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger (RWD)
2009: 370 hp, 398 pounds-feet of torque, 16/24 mpg city/highway
2008: 340 hp, 390 pounds-feet, 15/23
Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger (AWD)
2009: 370hp, 398 pounds-feet, 16/24
2008: 340 hp, 390 pounds-feet, 15/22
Dodge Durango (2WD)
2009: 356 hp, 390 pounds-feet, 13/19
2008: 335 hp, 370 pounds-feet, 13/19
Chrysler Aspen(2WD)
2009: 375 hp, 410 pounds-feet, 13/19
2008: 335 hp, 370 pounds-feet, 13/19
Dodge Ram (2WD)
2009: 390 hp, 407 pounds-feet, 13/19
2008: 345 hp, 375 pounds-feet, 13/19
Jeep Grand Cherokee, Commander (2WD)
2009: 357 hp, 389 pounds-feet, 13/19
2008: 330 hp, 375 pounds-feet, 13/19
Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger
2009: 235 hp, 232 pounds-feet, 16/27
2008: 235 hp, 232 pounds-feet, 16/26
Dodge Caliber (manual)
2009: 148 hp, 125 pounds-feet, 24/30
2008: 148 hp, 125 pounds-feet, 24/29
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yawn
Not Acceptable!
None of this mileage numbers are acceptable. Even the Caliber mileage is high for a car that size.
If Chrysler ever figures out "its the gas mileage stupid", they might sell some cars.
I am looking for a reason to buy another Jeep, but I can't find one.
JimC
Really, can someone explain why a 1.8 liter four pot in a small light car gets such terrible mileage? Couldn't they at least change the gearing for better highway mileage?
Perfect showcase of missmanagement of a product line. No wonder, Kia sells more today then a Chrysler.
"can someone explain why a 1.8 liter four pot in a small light car gets such terrible mileage?"
It's not a light car ... it weighs nearly 3,000 pounds with the manual, in base form. That's a lot of plastic and metal for a little 1.8 to haul around.
The real question is ... How does Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep meet CAFE requirements with only a couple of models that exceed 24/30 EPA mileage figures?
They do have the hybrid SUV twins which helps. But currently I don't think they are close. I know they will be rolling out 6-speed more and have new V-6 Phoenix engine family. I think their milleage is competitive or at least as good as other car companies. They just lack the line of full efficent small cars to balance out.
JimC-
The Jeep Patriot has the lowest cost of ownership in its class.