Chrysler updates all-wheel-drive system to yield one more MPG
Since the current LX platform Chrysler 300 along with the Dodge Magnum and the later Charger debuted in 2004, it has had an optional all wheel drive system. Much of the platform hardware of the LX was derived from the previous generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class including that all wheel drive hardware. The AWD system was designed to continuously drive all four wheels all the time and it can be a boon to those who live northern climes. However it comes at a price that includes reduced fuel economy. Driving the front axle all the time costs about 1 mpg compared to the rear wheel drive version. For the 2009 model year, a revised system will now disengage the front axle until excessive slip at the rear axle triggers drive torque to sent to the front. As a result, AWD models will now get the same fuel efficiency rating as the RWD variants.
[Source: Detroit Free Press]
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
Gordio 7:22AM (3/17/2008)
Is this article supposed to be sarcastic? That's how I interpreted it, and I like it if it's sarcastic.
Xler is LAGGING in the green game. In the green race of 3 turtles (the big three), Chrysler is falling behind.
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MikeW 11:26AM (3/17/2008)
I alway regard claims of 'As a result, AWD models will now get the same fuel efficiency rating as the RWD variants.' with a huge grain of salt.
Are the rear drive cars lighter? Yes
Does the 'all wheel drive' models have shorter gearing? Yes [well the V8 only]
Do the 'awd' models have a higher ride height, for reduced aerodynamics {& driving dynamics]? Yes
Anyway '08 300C 'AWD' 15/22
300C rear drive 15/23
There wasn't much difference to begin with, and how do you separate the marginal gains from this system from the the updated engine?
Now the V6 is worse because Chrysler didn't shorten the gearing from the onset, nor did they modernize the engine.
300 3.5 V6 rear drive 17/24 (5 speed auto, same rated mileage as 4 speed auto)
300 3.5 V6 'AWD' 15/22
How much improvement can you get if instead of driving the front powertrain by the drivetrain, you drive them from the wheels being spun from the ground.
Not much, and you don't have four wheel drive anymore [This is pointless, just get Blizzaks now]. If you are driving 75mph in the rain, what advantages do you have over rear drive, none.
If you are driving 50mph through an intermediate snow/slush/sleet/dry road conditions, what advantages do you have over rear drive? None.
What a crock.
You suck Cerberus-Chrysler.
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