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