The plushest choice in Chrysler's freshened 300 line, the 300C is a full-size luxury cruiser in the traditional American mold. You get plenty of power and eye-catching substance, along with an indulgent interior loaded with conveniences.
What's New for 2015
The 300C gets updated exterior styling, a more polished interior and new safety tech options.
Choosing Your Chrysler 300C
The 300C doesn't look appreciably different than before, just a tad more distinguished throughout. Last year's engines carry over, which means you can go with the standard 292-horsepower 3.6-liter V6, or upgrade to a 5.7-liter V8 producing 363 horsepower. Both engines now feature an eight-speed automatic transmission with a rotary gear selector instead of a traditional shifter. An electric power steering system is also new. All V8 300Cs are rear-drive, and V6 models are available with all-wheel drive.
Buyers can choose the standard 300C or the even more luxurious Platinum version:
300C
Features a leather interior with heated/ventilated front seats and heated rear seats, driver memory settings, a power-adjustable heated steering wheel with wood trim and a rear power sunshade. In terms of technology, you get a rearview camera, a navigation system, Chrysler's Uconnect infotainment interface, Bluetooth phone and audio, and a six speaker sound system with satellite radio. Other standard features include a panoramic sunroof, keyless access and ignition, remote start and 18-inch polished aluminum wheels (19s with all-wheel drive).
Platinum
Adds paddle shifters, a Sport driving mode, 20-inch wheels, and leather trim for the dashboard, console and door panels.
- Both models are eligible for the Safetytec 1 package with blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and folding side mirrors with integrated turn indicators and courtesy lamps.
- You can go all out on safety with the Safetytec 2 package, which tacks on adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, forward collision alert, rain-sensing wipers and automatic high beams.
Among the few remaining options are a 19-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and adaptive bi-xenon headlmaps.
The most compelling reason for upgrading to the Platinum ($4,500 extra) is the extended leather trim, which has a gentrifying effect on the interior. If that's not particularly important to you, we recommend sticking with the standard C and putting some of that money toward the safety tech options.