Chrysler 300C Overview

The Chrysler 300 is one of the last of the big, powerful, rear-wheel-drive American four-door sedans, a car for the open road and a long highway. It has great styling, impressive handling and, with the available Hemi V8 of 360 horsepower, pavement-eating performance. It's smooth, luxurious, quiet, comfortable, and everything a top-end American four-door sedan should be.

The Chrysler 300 nameplate includes a wide range of engines, trim levels and amenities, from one with a frugal V6 to the powerful SRT8. The base Touring model comes well-equipped for around $27,000. The Touring Signature model adds leather, amenities and a more powerful V6 for a little over $30,000. The 300C offers the powerful Hemi V8, with Chrysler's fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System, and it can be equipped with the kinds of technology and luxury features buyers in this segment demand.

The Chrysler 300 is rear-wheel drive, and we consider that a benefit. Rear-wheel drive adds to the pleasure and excitement of driving this big sedan, and that's partly why luxury sedans and sports cars continue to use it. The 300's traction and stability electronics are well sorted and effective, delivering good all-season performance, and all-wheel drive is an option for those who want enhanced traction for dealing with slippery conditions. With the big-torque Hemi V8, the 300 also offers enough towing capacity to pull a lightweight trailer.

The Chrysler 300 models are comfortable. They're also responsive for large cars. The 300C delivers thrilling acceleration, while the SRT8 offers true high performance in civilized fashion.

Then there's the styling. Inside and out, this car makes no apologies. It won't be mistaken for any other sedan the road. It can be trimmed with chrome, mono-chrome and various wheels to look stately and elegant or downright intimidating.

The Chrysler 300 delivers impressive value, but emphasizing the cost/benefit ratio may minimize its other strengths. The 300 is a highly appealing car, and it has set a benchmark for the industry.

Long-wheelbase models are also available. Aimed primarily at the chauffeur-driven executive class, the long-wheelbase version offers a cavernous back seat with impressive leg room. It's great for tall folks or anyone who likes space and convenience, and it can be equipped with custom features such as writing tables and foot rests.

The changes for 2010 include the availability of Keyless Entry/Keyless Go, which is standard on the 300C; ParkSense rear park assist, also standard on the 300C; the 300 Touring has standard chrome door handles and front and rear fascia accents, and heated chrome mirrors; and standard on all models are side-curtain airbags.