23 MPG combined is an adequate, if unremarkable, figure for the 2017 Chrysler 200 equipped with the 3.6L V6. It’s not going to win any green car awards, and it certainly isn’t the reason anyone signs on the dotted line for this particular 200. Instead, it’s the tradeoff buyers accept in exchange for the strong acceleration and smooth power delivery that the V6 provides.

City and highway performance

The 2017 Chrysler 200 V6 doesn’t drastically change its personality between city streets and open highways, but the MPG figures do reflect the differences. Expect 19 MPG in urban driving conditions, where stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds prevent the nine-speed automatic transmission from reaching its higher, more efficient gears. The highway figure, a useful 31 MPG, is far more palatable for longer commutes or road trips. The long gearing of the automatic, coupled with the engine’s relaxed nature at cruising speeds, contributes significantly to this better number out on the open road. Achieving this highway figure requires a patient right foot; aggressive acceleration quickly diminishes fuel returns.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, owning a 2017 Chrysler 200 3.6L will cost you approximately $1,900 per year in fuel costs. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assuming national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel expenses may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Someone who drives predominantly in the city will likely exceed this estimate, while someone with a long, highway-heavy commute might achieve better results.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures are a useful benchmark, but real-world figures often differ. Drivers report that regularly achieving the stated 31 MPG on the highway requires conscious effort and maintaining a steady speed. In mixed driving conditions, most owners find themselves closer to the 22-24 MPG range. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extended idling will all negatively impact fuel economy. Owners who prioritize the V6’s performance over maximizing efficiency will likely see figures closer to the city rating, if not slightly below. Visit 200 MPG across all years to see how these figures compare to other model years.

How it compares

In the mid-size sedan segment, fuel economy numbers vary considerably. A contemporary Honda Accord with its 2.4L four-cylinder engine achieves a notably better 27 MPG combined. However, the Accord’s V6 option delivers similar figures to the Chrysler 200. The Toyota Camry, another popular choice, also achieves around 25 MPG combined with its four-cylinder. The V6 versions of these competitors achieve generally similar fuel economy, underscoring that the Chrysler’s numbers are standard for a naturally aspirated V6 in this class.

The difference often comes down to driving experience. The Chrysler 200’s V6 provides a distinct character and a feeling of effortless power that some buyers prioritize over squeezing out an extra mile or two per gallon. For those wanting peak fuel efficiency in this size class, smaller turbocharged engines or hybrids are the better choice.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid unnecessary acceleration. The reliable V6 makes it tempting to dart into openings in traffic, but each hard acceleration burns fuel. Instead, focus on maintaining a consistent speed and anticipate when you will need to slow down.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever appropriate. Maintaining a constant speed eliminates the small variations in throttle input that can negatively impact fuel economy.

Minimize idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and restarting consumes less fuel than idling for an extended period and visit all Chrysler fuel economy data.