| Engine | 5.7L 8-cyl |
| Transmission | Automatic 8-spd |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | Midgrade Gasoline |
| Vehicle Class | Large Cars |
| Start-Stop | No |
| EPA Vehicle ID | 39052 |
19 MPG combined is what you get with the 2018 Chrysler 300 with the 5.7L Hemi V8. It’s a world of effortless power, confident road presence, and traditional American sedan swagger. This isn’t a car for hyper-milers or those solely focused on squeezing every last drop from a gallon of fuel. It’s for the driver who values the immediate responsiveness and strong engine note of a V8, and who accepts some inefficiency as part of the experience. The 300 Hemi buyer understands priorities, and for them, a commanding engine note on the open road is more important than a few extra miles per tank.
City and highway performance
The EPA estimates for the 2018 Chrysler 300 5.7L are 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s natural inclination to use more fuel during stop-and-go driving, where its displacement and power are readily available, urging you to use them. However, the 25 MPG highway estimate demonstrates that the eight-speed automatic transmission is well-geared for efficient cruising. At highway speeds, the 5.7L can settle into a relaxed state, using less fuel than you might expect given its size. The well-spaced ratios of the transmission also assist in downshifting smoothly for passing maneuvers at almost any speed.
Annual fuel cost
The EPA annual fuel cost estimate for the 2018 Chrysler 300 5.7L V8 is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which are, of course, subject to change. It’s a standardized metric designed to allow consumers to compare the relative fuel expenses of different vehicles. For drivers who cover more miles or live in areas with higher fuel costs, the actual annual expense will be greater, but $2,750 represents a reasonable baseline to understand the cost of running this particular engine.
Real-world expectations
While the EPA provides a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy always varies based on driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. 300 Hemi drivers who spend most of their time in dense urban traffic will likely see figures closer to, or even below, the 16 MPG city estimate. On the other hand, those who primarily use the car for highway commuting, and who practice conservative driving techniques, may be able to consistently achieve or slightly exceed the 25 MPG highway number. The key is to be mindful of throttle inputs and use cruise control on long stretches of highway to maintain consistent speeds. The engine’s cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down cylinders when full power is not needed, can also play a meaningful role in real-world fuel savings, especially at steady cruising speeds. You can review 300 MPG across all years to see if newer models offer improved ratings.
How it compares
Compared to other large sedans with similar performance, the 2018 Chrysler 300 Hemi’s fuel economy lands in a specific niche. For example, the Dodge Charger R/T, which shares the same 5.7L V8 and transmission, posts similar EPA figures, around 16 city and 25 highway. The Nissan Maxima, while offering brisk acceleration from its V6 engine, achieves roughly 21 city and 30 highway. However, the Maxima lacks the rear-wheel-drive configuration and traditional American muscle car feel of the 300. Buyers cross-shopping with larger SUVs such as the Chevy Tahoe (around 15 city, 22 highway for the 5.3L V8) need to be aware of the tradeoffs in fuel efficiency for the extra space and all-wheel drive capabilities. all Chrysler fuel economy data can be reviewed online.
Tips to maximize efficiency
While the 2018 Chrysler 300 5.7L isn’t designed to use very little fuel, there are steps you can take to improve its efficiency. Smooth acceleration and avoiding hard braking are critical. The Hemi V8 responds well to a gentle touch, and repeatedly pressing hard on the accelerator pedal will quickly deplete your fuel tank.
Monitor your tire pressure regularly. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy, especially on longer trips. Consult the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your 300.
Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the trunk. Extra cargo adds load to the vehicle, requiring the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. Decluttering your car can be a simple way to slightly improve your MPG.
Use cruise control whenever possible on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed minimizes fluctuations in engine load and fuel consumption. The eight-speed transmission is also more likely to remain in its highest, most efficient gear when using cruise control.
Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, injectors can become clogged, which affects fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. A quality fuel additive can help maintain optimal engine performance and fuel economy.