The 2023 Chrysler 300 with the 6.4L Hemi V8 gets 18 MPG combined. To be honest, fuel efficiency isn’t the main reason people buy this engine. They’re after a slice of classic American muscle, a large sedan with a powerful sound and enough horsepower to push you back in your seat. Fuel economy is a secondary concern tolerated for the thrills the car offers. Buyers of this 300 aren’t looking for practicality, it’s about making a statement.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 300’s 6.4L V8 at 15 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects how much fuel a large engine uses to move a heavy car through stop-and-go traffic. While the highway number isn’t impressive compared to hybrids, it’s achievable if you drive carefully and let the eight-speed automatic transmission do its job. However, frequent bursts of acceleration will quickly reduce that number.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chrysler 300 6.4L at approximately $3,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices, which change, so you might pay more or less, depending on your driving and where you live. The calculation is simple: the EPA estimates how many gallons the average driver uses in 15,000 miles and then multiplies that by the estimated price of gasoline.

Real-world expectations

If you accelerate quickly a lot, forget the EPA numbers. Real-world MPG can easily drop below the estimates, especially if you enjoy the 300’s fast acceleration. Don’t be surprised by averages in the low teens during aggressive driving. However, on long highway trips, achieving or even slightly exceeding the 24 MPG rating is possible if you control the throttle and maintain a steady speed. Think of it as a challenge rather than something to expect.

How it compares

The Dodge Charger R/T, with a similar 5.7L V8, is the closest competitor to the 300, and its ratings are statistically identical to the 300. The Nissan Maxima, with a more modern interior and a more efficient V6, doesn’t provide the same exciting experience. The Maxima gets 20 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. A fully-loaded Toyota Avalon with its V6 manages 22 MPG city and 32 MPG highway. However, those cars don’t provide the same feel of power and American heritage. If less gas is a major concern, there are many options that beat the 300. So, this Chrysler isn’t trying to compete on MPG. Buyers accept the trade-off.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently. Don’t floor the accelerator from a stop. Ease into it and let the transmission shift smoothly. Rapid acceleration will cause your MPG to drop quickly in this car.

Highway driving gives you the best chance to improve fuel economy. Maintain a steady speed, avoid changing lanes unnecessarily, and use cruise control when you can. Also, consider using the car’s Eco mode, if it has one, for highway driving.

Tire pressure is important. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which you’ll find on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the recommended schedule for oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. Poor maintenance can hurt performance and fuel economy.

Think about your routes. Avoid congested areas and routes with frequent stop-and-go traffic when you can. Choose routes that allow for more consistent speeds. Explore all Chrysler fuel economy data or research the 300 MPG across all years to compare these tips to more efficient Chrysler models.