2015 Chrysler 200 returns 36 mpg highway with four-cylinder
Chrysler's 2015 200 achieves 36 mpg on the highway when fitted with its 2.4-litre four-cylinder, while V6 and AWD versions post lower figures.
Chrysler has confirmed that the 2015 200 sedan achieves up to 36 miles per gallon on the highway when equipped with its 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine and nine-speed automatic transmission. The official US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ratings also show 23 mpg in city driving, with a combined figure of 28 mpg for this configuration. The 2.4-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces 184 horsepower. Chrysler attributes the improved fuel economy partly to the nine-speed automatic, which is standard across the range. For buyers prioritising running costs, this makes the entry-level 200 one of the more efficient non-hybrid mid-size saloons in its segment for the 2015 model year.
2015 Chrysler 200 Fuel Economy Ratings
Engine Options and Performance
The 2015 Chrysler 200 offers buyers a choice of two engines. The base engine is the 2.4-litre four-cylinder, which delivers 184 horsepower and is paired with the nine-speed automatic transmission. This combination is responsible for the model’s headline fuel economy figures: 36 mpg highway, 23 mpg city, and 28 mpg combined, according to EPA testing. The four-cylinder engine is designed for efficiency and is targeted at drivers who want to minimise fuel costs without opting for a hybrid.
For those seeking more power, Chrysler also offers a 3.6-litre V6 engine. The V6 produces 295 horsepower and is available with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. However, this extra performance comes at the expense of fuel economy. The front-wheel drive V6 variant achieves 19 mpg in the city, 32 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The all-wheel drive V6 is rated at 18 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined. Both V6 versions use the same nine-speed automatic gearbox as the four-cylinder.
Transmission Technology
A notable feature of the 2015 Chrysler 200 is the standard nine-speed automatic transmission, which is fitted to every model regardless of engine choice. This advanced gearbox is designed to optimise both performance and efficiency, allowing the engine to operate at lower revs during highway cruising. The greater number of gears enables smoother shifts and helps the 200 achieve its competitive fuel economy ratings, particularly on the highway.
Market Position and Rivals
The 2015 Chrysler 200 sits within the highly competitive US mid-size saloon segment, a class where fuel economy is a significant factor for many buyers. Chrysler has positioned the 200 as a value-focused option, with a starting price of $22,696 in the US market. This pricing puts it in direct competition with established rivals such as the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry. At launch, none of these competitors offered a nine-speed automatic transmission, giving the Chrysler 200 a unique selling point in terms of technology and efficiency.
While hybrid models from other brands can achieve higher fuel economy, the 2015 Chrysler 200's 36 mpg highway rating makes it one of the most efficient non-hybrid options available in its class for the 2015 model year. This is particularly relevant for buyers who are not ready to make the switch to hybrid technology but still want to reduce their fuel expenses.
Pricing and Value
The base price for the 2015 Chrysler 200 starts at $22,696 in the US. Standard equipment includes the nine-speed automatic transmission, which is uncommon in this segment. The combination of competitive pricing, advanced transmission technology, and strong fuel economy figures is intended to make the 200 attractive to a broad range of buyers. For those who prioritise efficiency, the four-cylinder model offers a balance between cost and fuel savings, while the V6 provides more power for those who want additional performance.
Specification Summary
| Engine (base) | 2.4-litre four-cylinder |
|---|---|
| Power (base) | 184 hp |
| Fuel economy (base) | 23 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined |
| Engine (upgrade) | 3.6-litre V6 |
| Power (V6) | 295 hp |
| Fuel economy (V6 FWD) | 19 mpg city / 32 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined |
| Fuel economy (V6 AWD) | 18 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic (all models) |
| Base price (US) | $22,696 |
Fuel Economy in Context
Chrysler's fuel economy figures for the 2015 200 reflect the company's efforts to improve efficiency and appeal to buyers sensitive to running costs. The combination of a modern four-cylinder engine and a nine-speed automatic transmission has enabled the 200 to achieve class-leading highway fuel efficiency among non-hybrid mid-size saloons. As fuel prices fluctuate and consumers become more conscious of long-term operating costs, models like the 200 aim to address these concerns without requiring buyers to move to hybrid or diesel alternatives.
Conclusion
With its 36 mpg highway rating, the 2015 Chrysler 200 stands as a strong contender for buyers looking for a fuel-efficient, non-hybrid mid-size saloon. The standard nine-speed automatic transmission and competitive pricing further enhance its appeal in a crowded market. For those weighing up efficiency, performance, and value, the 2015 Chrysler 200 offers a compelling package.
For more on the model's development, see 2015 Chrysler 200 surfaces online ahead of Detroit debut.
