23 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2022 Chrysler 300 3.6L V6, it represents a calculated trade-off. Buyers of this full-size sedan aren’t prioritizing hybrid-rivaling fuel efficiency; they want a spacious, comfortable, and stylish vehicle with a powerful engine, and they’re willing to accept mid-pack fuel consumption to get it. This is a car for those who appreciate the traditional American sedan, a dying breed, perhaps, but one that still has immense appeal for a specific type of driver. They want presence and V6 smoothness, not necessarily the lowest number at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Chrysler 300 3.6L V6 provide a more detailed view of its fuel consumption. In city driving, the 300 manages 19 MPG. This reflects the reality of stop-and-go traffic where the engine works harder and the aerodynamic advantages of the car are negligible.

On the highway, the 300 fares considerably better, achieving 30 MPG. This is where the 8-speed automatic transmission shines, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs and maximizing fuel efficiency over long distances. The significant difference between city and highway MPG highlights that this car is best-suited for longer commutes and road trips, where it can stretch a gallon of gasoline further.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chrysler 300 3.6L V6 is $1,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of the EPA’s testing. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the 300’s fuel expenses with other vehicles in its class. Actual costs can vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used. Premium fuel is not required for the 3.6L V6, meaning owners can save money by using regular gasoline without sacrificing performance or engine longevity.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized metric, real-world fuel economy can differ based on driving style, environmental conditions, and vehicle maintenance. Aggressive acceleration, frequent hard braking, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively affect fuel efficiency. In general, experienced drivers can often match or slightly exceed the EPA’s highway MPG figure during extended road trips, while city MPG is more difficult to consistently achieve due to the unpredictable nature of urban traffic.

Keeping tires properly inflated and adhering to the recommended maintenance schedule can also contribute to optimizing fuel economy in this vehicle.

How it compares

The Chrysler 300’s fuel economy can be better understood by comparing it to its competitors. The Nissan Maxima, another V6-powered full-size sedan, achieves 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway, making it very similar to the 300 in highway driving but slightly better in city driving. The Toyota Avalon, with its 3.5L V6, manages 22 MPG city and 32 MPG highway, offering a more efficient option for those prioritizing fuel savings. Though slightly smaller, the Acura TLX is another vehicle to consider. The base 2.0L turbo-4 TLX gets 22 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, while the Type S variant with its 3.0L turbocharged V6 offers a similar experience to the 300 but with slightly worse fuel economy coming in at 19 MPG city and 25 MPG highway, which puts it near the bottom of the segment. These comparisons highlight the fact that while the 300 offers a blend of style and performance, there are more fuel-efficient options available in the full-size sedan and adjacent segments. You can compare all Chrysler fuel economy data on our site, or see 300 MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the most effective ways to improve fuel economy in the Chrysler 300 is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The 300’s V6 engine is responsive and doesn’t require aggressive throttle inputs for normal driving.

Proper tire inflation is critical for maximizing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure that it matches the recommended levels specified on the tire placard. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Using the correct tire pressure also improves handling and extends tire life.

Minimize idling time whenever possible. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by avoiding prolonged idling can be substantial over time. This is particularly relevant in city driving, where traffic lights and congestion often lead to extended periods of idling.

Remove unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or cabin increases the overall weight of the car, requiring the engine to expend more energy to accelerate and maintain speed. Clear out any items that are not essential for daily use, thereby reducing the load on the engine and improving fuel economy. This is especially true if you frequently haul heavy items.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and avoid unnecessary fluctuations in throttle input. Cruise control helps the engine operate at its most efficient RPM range, resulting in improved fuel economy over long distances. However, be mindful of changing traffic conditions and disengage cruise control when necessary to maintain safe following distances.