Chrysler’s LX-based vehicles – the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 – aren’t exactly the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the road, but the next iterations of LX cars will be much more fuel friendly. Chrysler is making drastic changes to both cars in order to comply with upcoming CAFE regulations.
Re-designed versions of the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 are due out in 2011, with both models slated to see a significant boost in fuel economy. The reigning fuel-efficient champ of the LX stable is the 26 mpg (highway) 2.7L-powered Dodge Charger, but the next crop of LX-based vehicles will likely top the 30 mpg mark.

In order to improve fuel economy, Chrysler engineers will focus on aerodynamics, axel ratios and drivetrains. At the heart of the improvements will be Chrysler’s all-new Phoenix family of V6 engines. The new Phoenix V6 will likely replace both V6s currently offered in the LX cars, improving both fuel economy and performance.

But the new Phoenix V6 won’t be the only big news for the 2011 Charger and 300. Chrysler is also planning to replace the cars’ four and five-speed automatic transmissions with a new eight-speed unit, rivaling Lexus for the most cogs in the business.

Source: LeftLaneNews