Chrysler 300C Reviews

Mainstream sedans are traditionally on the sedate side in style and are aimed at sensible souls who don't want to stand out from the crowd. Not so the Chrysler 300C, this big American machine is aimed at grabbing attention from any angle and it comes as no surprise it's been labelled 'gangsta car'. Now approaching its

In a sea of similarity the imposing looks of the Chrysler 300C stood out and appealed to many buyers who wanted to be seen driving something fresh and different.

Ewan Kennedy road tests and reviews the used Chrysler 300C.

If you wan't to live out your American V8 muscle car fantasy with a new Chrysler 300 in the garage then it will have to be the top-whack SRT8 model at around $66,000.The previous 5.7 V8 has dissoed making way for a pair of less lively V6s with wheezy voices — the Pentastar 3.6 petrol (port not direct injection) and the (carry-over) VM-Motori 3.0-litre turbo diesel.This is version two of the chunky Chrysler 300  — essentially a comprehensive make over using the same chassis (from an earlier 1990s Mercedes-Benz E-Class) and sundry changes to the sheetmetal, interior and specification.Plenty of safety stuff from Chrysler's earlier links with Benz has trickled down into the new 300 some of it optional or available on higher grade models. The look has been influenced by Fiat which owns Chrysler so some elements of the Lancia Thema (European Chrysler 300) have transferred across.Is it a good lookin' "tough guy'' like the previous model? Not really. Put the two side by side and you'll see. The earlier one nails it while the new one looks like a committee effort, bit of this, bit of that with squinty headlights and overstyled tail lights.But Chrysler Australia has driven a hard bargain with its new Italian overlords and hits the market with a starting point of $43,000 for the 300 V6 Limited petrol complete with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, 18-inch alloys, decent audio, bi-xenon headlights, power front seats, rear view camera and the US equivalent of a five star crash rating.It is a serious temptation for someone shopping Holden Berlina or Falcon G6. The next step up is 300C which scores the leather treatment and more kit, then there's the 300C Luxury on top of that.The three grades are available with petrol and diesel V6 engines, diesel attracting a $5000 premium but with only a five-speed auto transmission. Those V6 engines are good for 210kW/340Nm on the petrol and 176kW/550Nm on the diesel. The 6.4-litre petrol V8 in SRT 8  generates 347kW/631Nm, comfortably out-powering anything from HSV or FPV.Fuel saving technology on the petrol V6 includes variable valve timing while the V8 gets cylinder deactivation and variable valve timing (on an overhead valve engine) but still only a five-speed auto. The petrol V6 is capable of returning 9.4-litres/100km, the diesel 7.1 and the V8 13.0.It's a weighty beast perched between 1800kg-2000kg model dependent. That's a lot of lard to be hauling around but Chrysler has honed the 300's suspension on all models to offer a surprisingly high level of comfort coupled with a sporty feel. The steering is also relatively direct and offers a respectable turning circle.But the smallish brakes on the SRT8 would last perhaps a couple of heavy applications from high speed before losing the plot. There's plenty of grip from the big tyres fitted to all models and  the venerable chassis has been reinforced with judicious application of high strength steel in key areas.On the road it's difficult to choose between the petrol V6 and the diesel, the former with a decided torque advantage offering strong roll on acceleration while the eight-speed tranny in the petrol captures available power and torque smoothly and efficiently to push the big 300 along with purpose.It's certainly a more engaging drive than a "Falcadore.'' The interior is a breath of fresh air with classic touches and splashes of the latest technology.

The American idol is on the way back, with all the gangsta attitude that made it a hit more than two years ago. The Chrysler 300C SRT8 has had a major makeover that goes right down to the road and all the way up to a thumping new 6.4-litre V8 engine. The number run includes 351 kiloWatts and 637 Newton-metres of torque, as well as a 0-100km/h sprint time in 4.7 seconds.The mean-streets look has been tamed a little, and there is a lot more to like in the cabin, but it's still an old-school muscle car that means the SRT8 tag - it stands for Street, Road, Track - has lost none of its impact. A two-day preview drive in Las Vegas is the ideal start to the new SRT8 experience, running down the glitter strip and out into the desert alongside the Grand Cherokee that's already had a tick from Carsguide ahead of its Australian return.The cheapest of the new 300Cs comes in from $45,000 and there will eventually be five models, topped by the SRT8 at close to $65,000. Chrysler Jeep Australia is keeping the exact number a secret until cars land in April, but the bottom line is fairly firm. There is plenty of justify the showroom sticker, from the belter engine to giant alloys and a loaded cabin with leather trim, a big touch-screen display and seriously good sound.The price point is a clever choice, since it positions the SRT8 above the Commodore SS-V and Falcon XR6 Turbo, but below the seriously speedy machines wearing Holden Special Vehicles and Ford Performances Vehicles badges.The basics are fairly basic in the chunky Chrysler, just like Australia's Falcon and Commodore, although the platform under the body is taken from the superseded Mercedes-Benz E Class sedan. The engine is in the nose, there is a five-speed auto gearbox, and drive goes through the area wheels.There is some neat stuff, like a rear-view camera and a system - a lot like the Nissan GT-R - that displays all sorts of performance information and can even log acceleration runs and measure cornering grip. The upgrade comes at a price, as the SRT has put on around 150 kilos since the previous model, although the engine has grown from 6.1 to 6.4 litres.The new 300C body is longer than the old one, which means more space in the back seat, and it's also been rounded-off compared with the chunky edges of the previous car. It's generally smoother and looks more, well, adult. There is a blacked-out grille and 20-inch alloys, subtle side skirts and a tiny blade spoiler on the boots. Oh, and blacked-out shotgun exhaust tips. The SRT work inside runs to well-bolstered front buckets and a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel, as well as embroided badges on the seats.There is no official ANCAP rating yet but the 300C is a top safety pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the USA. The airbag protection runs down to one for the driver's knees there are ESP and ABS as usual, with a huge lineup of extras including automatic wipers. Full details will not be available until the Australian cars land.The SRT8 was a Carsguide favourite and stays on the list, thanks to old-school muscle and a cabin that - like the updated Grand Cherokee - finally justifies a premium price and place. The seats are comfy, though short on support in turns, the display screen and sound are great, and it has all the luxury you expect for $65,000. But turn the key and the V8 thunder makes a statement that is backed when you hit the accelerator. The ultimate C-car really kicks hard from a standstill and has huge go when the rev counter spins past 4000.It's all V8 grunt and muscle but the engine has cylinder deactivation to boost economy, not that the gear-short auto really helps. Basic 300s have a new eight-speed automatic but the SRT's performance means its held back to five. The cornering grip is very good, with a predictable feel through the controls, although the steering is a bit woolly and the car wants to walk around on its big tyres in tight corners or anywhere with low-ish grip. When you're on a sandy desert road it can get quite lively.It's not as responsive as the HSV cars, but more punchy than the FPV Falcons. It feels less involving, but that will suit some people and it does have a very distinctive look.So the new 300C SRT8 is much more refined than it was, perhaps a little less playful, but still an old-school thumper that will work for a lot of muscle car fans down under. It's not as precise as the homegrown heroes but it's better than it was, although badly in need of a six-speed automatic.

After more than a year on the missing list, the Chrysler 300C is finally back.

Chrysler 300C is a big, bold, very American machine with aggressive styling that explains its nickname of ‘the gangster car’.

WHAT IS IT?This is the high performance version of Chrysler's near iconic 300C sedan. It has a larger capacity 6.1-litre petrol V8 engine, huge 20-inch wheels and plenty of goodies inside like leather clad sports seats, a 0-100kmh timer and  this time around, a limited slip differential.HOW MUCH?Priced at &74,990, the SRT8 leave little to be desired. Chrysler is pretty well on top of the latest gadgets and luxury developments and it shows inside the SRT8.WHAT ARE THE COMPETITORS?HSV's Clubsport R8 and FPV's GT are close on price and have similar engines and power output. But the SRT8 isn't as hard core as these two, it's more of a quick cruiser rather than a road going sports sedan.WHAT'S UNDER THE BONNET?Power comes from a 6.1-litre, Hemi V8 with overhead valves. It aint the latest artillery but is good for 317kW/569Nm output that propels the SRT8 in the way you'd expect - fast. It drives the rear wheels via a sequential five speed auto.HOW DOES IT GO?Like a train _ we used the built-in 0-100kmh timer and clocked a 5.35 second split. A hotshot would do better. Has a pleasing rumble from the wide spaced dual outlet exhaust and plenty of kick in the mid and high rev ranges.IS IT ECONOMICAL?It's OK, drive with an egg foot and it will do 12.0-litres/100km, boot it up and the sky's the limit. Chrysler claims a combined average of 14.0-litres/100km.IS IT 'GREEN'?Not really.IS IT SAFE?Has all the necessary kit - multiple air bags, stability control so goes close to a five star crash rating. Inherently safe with big Brembo brakes, large tyre contact patch sports calibrated stability control. Weighs in at just over 1900kg. Look out little cars.IS IT COMFORTABLE?Superbly. Despite being the "sport" version, has comfy and controlled ride, minimal noise intrusion, large soft seats and plenty of interior room _ a "first class" travelling experience. Also scores a monumental Kicker 13 speaker audio system, the latest in 3D satnav, a 20gigabyte myGig infotainment system, leather, electric assistance everywhere, remote proximity entry, keyless go - you name it.WHAT'S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?Impressive. Not as sharp in the twisties as an HSV or FPV but still wieldy and fun to steer though the steering itself is a little too light and vague. rockets out of tight corners like a sports sedan should aided by that new differential. The Brembos as welcome given the power and weight of the SRT8. And all this in a pampered driving environment.IS IT VALUE FOR MONEY?You'll pay a bit more for the SRT8 but it's a bit different and more "bling" than the direct competitors. Value? Pretty good really considering the size of the thing and what you get. Beats a small European premium model for similar money every day.WOULD WE BUY ONE?Yep, the missus hates it but then what does she know. Hope she isn't reading this.

There was a time when American cars reigned supreme over the Australian motoring landscape. It was a time when bigger was believed better and the biggest was best, when automotive prestige was measured by the metre.It’s not so long ago the local market was split into two camps, the British and the American, from which the locally built Holden and Falcon both sprung.British cars were typically small, cramped and underpowered, and regarded by many as unreliable, whereas American cars were large and comfortable with slow-revving, understressed engines that were able to cover long distances with ease, and they were reliable.Many Australians in the 1940s and ’50s aspired to own an American car of the sort that was being built and sold by Holden and Ford. But by the time Chrysler released the 300C in 2005, there had been a seismic shift in the local market and American cars were largely regarded as massive gas guzzlers that were poorly built and less refined than those built by the Europeans and Japanese that had come to dominate the market.But the 300C had a number of things going for it that would help it find its niche in the market. American cars still had a following here, even if it was relatively small, it was built and backed by DaimlerChrysler, and it was very distinctively styled.MODEL WATCHThere has been a lot of discussion about styling in recent times. It centred on the criticism that all cars looked similar, if not the same.It was a fair cop, although designers would argue that the demands for fuel-efficiency and effective packaging locked them into a certain style that meant all cars would resemble each other to some degree.Then along came Chrysler with a different set of styling rules, one that said a car could look different and still meet the demands for aerodynamics and packaging.The 300C was a surprising hit. With its big, bold chrome grille, tall slab sides and chopped roofline it could only have come from America, but it caught the imagination of a section of the local motoring public.Time spent in a 300C and it quickly became evident that it was a head turner. People might not necessarily have known what it was, but they sure took notice of it and wanted to find out.The 300C was a big car in the true American style, but it wasn’t typical of the big cars that once defined, and almost destroyed, the American car industry.This one had Mercedes-Benz stamped all over its mechanical package, if not its styling. Benz owned Chrysler at the time and there was plenty of cross-pollination going on, even if there were few parts that could be interchanged between the brands.Mercedes’ influence was largely behind the scenes in the way things were done rather than a direct parts swap. As a result the 300C boasted more sophistication than most other American cars could.Chrysler was aiming to steal a slice of the big car market from the likes of the Fairlane/LTD and Statesman/Caprice with the 300C, and it succeeded mostly to the detriment of the big Fords.Under the bonnet was either a 183 kW 3.5-litre single overhead camshaft V6 or a 250 kW 5.7-litre Hemi V8 that boasted cylinder deactivation to save on fuel bills.When appropriate the V8 engine’s electronics would switch off a number of cylinders and the engine would cruise on four cylinders. Plant the foot and all eight cylinders would answer the call with a howl that gladdened the heart of any old-time petrolhead.The aim of the cylinder deactivation – it was called MDS – was to save fuel and Chrysler claimed it was good for 10 to 20 per cent.The V6 model was given a four-speed auto, but the V8 got a five-speed auto with a slapstick manual change,On the road the 300C was surprisingly un-American in its dynamics. Instead of the expected sloppiness it steered with precision and feel, braked confidently, and the handling was well balanced and reassuring.Not such a surprise was the 300C’s ride, which was comfortable and absorbent with good isolation and little noise intrusion, even on its 18-inch wheels and tyres.Inside, the 300C was reserved, well laid-out, nicely finished and easy to use. It was also relatively roomy and very well equipped.Standard equipment included climate controlled air, cruise, fog lamps, CD stacker, remote central locking, full electrics and full leather trim.IN THE SHOPIt’s early days in the lifespan of the 300C, but owners report few problems so far. Nothing major has come to light; the issues owners have reported are fairly minor and have been quickly addressed by Chrysler.The build quality is of a much higher standard than expected, no doubt the result of Mercedes-Benz setting a high benchmark for its then-American offshoot.From all reports the 300C appears robust and reliable so simply drive the car and note any noises, vibrations or odours that don’t seem as through they should be there.The softish ride can result in damage to the underbody and suspension if driven too fast over speed humps so make note of any knocks or noise coming from the suspension.Given that a number of 300Cs have been modified, and lowered in particular, check for damage as a result of bottoming-out on the road, kerbs and driveways.Replacing very low profile tyres of the type fitted to large diameter alloy wheels like the aftermarket wheels often fitted by owners can be expensive so check the price of the tyres before deciding on a car with big wheels.IN A CRUNCHMass is a great protector when it comes to a crash and the 300C is well endowed in that area coming in at more than 1800 kg.Being a large car the 300C is not as agile as a smaller one, but its chassis is well balanced with ESP helping out, its brakes, which are ABS-assisted, are powerful, and its steering lets the driver know what’s going on, so it has a powerful primary safety package.Bags all round complete a modern safety arsenal that will provide good occupant protection come crash time.AT THE PUMPA heavy car with a big V8 isn’t a recipe for low fuel consumption so be prepared for a shock at the pump.The cylinder deactivation system on the Hemi V8 is a mitigating factor in the V8’s favour, but the 5.7-litre V8 will still be thirsty.Expect 15 L/100 km around town and 12 on the highway for both V6 and V8 models.OWNER’S VIEWShane Hann first noticed the 300C when on holiday in Canada in 2005. He had no idea what it was, but absolutely loved the look of it with its blunt, aggressive front and chop-top side view. When he returned home he researched the car on the net and determined that he would buy one if Chrysler ever imported it. When they did he was one of the first to place an order. Back then these cars were still relatively unknown, and the amount of looks and comments were astounding, the 300C turned more heads than just about any car on the road. Talk about stroke the ego, he says. He still loves driving it; he loves the attention it gets and the envious looks from P-platers! He has done a few mods to the car, namely changing the exhaust so the Hemi can really sing, fitting 22-inch rims, and dropping the ride height by about 35 mm. The power is plentiful and the car accelerates much quicker than most people expect. It has a very comfortable ride and is actually quite a luxurious and comfortable car inside.Richard Satora loves his 2006 V8 300C. It has real road presence, he says, unlike any car on the street at the moment and sometimes people are mesmerized as you drive by, and it’s not unusual for complete strangers to give you the thumbs up. The cylinder shutout system is now on everyone’s menu and it does make the fuel consumption pretty good for a big car like this. Like Shane, Richard has modified his 300C with a body kit and exhaust system, as well as lowering it and fitting it with 22-inch wheels. Richard says he was always a Holden man, but the Chrysler has won him over for a few more years.Paul Carton is still grinning after two years and 30,000 km at the wheel of a 300C. He says it’s big and comfortable, but oozes power, and he loves driving it. He gets under 15 L/100 km commuting and around 11 on the highway run, and he says he’s happy with that. On the downside he discovered the softness of the front end when he drove over a speed hump for the first time, and there have been a couple of minor issues with the boot lid badge and a sticking door handle, both of which were promptly fixed.LOOK FOR• Plenty of admiring glances• Head turning styling• Hemi V8 performance• reasonable fuel economy for a heavy V8 car• Comfortable ride• Reassuring handlingTHE BOTTOM LINEStriking looks turn heads like no other, but the beauty of the 300C is more than skin deep.RATING79/100

Its bold presence and striking looks have given it a real chance in our big car market. Drivetrains and performanceThe 300C is available as a sedan or wagon – 300C Touring – and comes with a choice of four engines: 3.5 litre V6, 3.0 litre CRD V6, 5.7 litre HEMI V8, and the stonking 6.1 litre HEMI V8 SRT we tested, with its 317kW of power and a chunky 569Nm of torque at our disposal.With that under the bonnet you can expect to reach 265km/h, getting to the first hundred in just over five seconds.At just under two tonnes and just over five meters long, the big SRT8 gets power to the wheels via a five speed automatic with AutoStick for manual shifting.For a superior driving experience the 300C has a near 50/50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive, ESP and five-link rear suspension.As was to be expected, fuel consumption is on the high side at 14 litres/100kms. ExteriorStanding at over five meters long and nearly two meters wide, the 300C has a bold presence on the road.But more than just its sheer size; the high belt line, huge proportion of side glass, chrome exterior mirrors and door handles and the classic, stately grille design come together to create a vehicle that commands respect.The SRT version also has massive 20 inch wheels and an integrated spoiler with high mounted stop light. InteriorThe 300C’s cavernous interior is lined with soft touch surfaces and luxury leather-trimmed seats. The front bucket seats are heated.Tortoise shell and California Walnut trim is available for the bigger V6 and the lesser V8 respectively, with the SRT8 dominated inside by dark leather trim and aluminium panelling.Dual Zone Automatic Temperature Control, a five feature memory system for the driver, rain sensing wipers and a Multimedia Infotainment Systemwith Navigation are all standard on the SRT8.Cargo capacity is flexible thanks to 60/40 split-folding rear seats and large boot. Two front and two rear cup holders make long distance driving easier. SafetyAlong with Electronic Stability Program which includes Electronic throttle control, all speed traction control and Yaw-Control sensor/Steering Control sensor, the 300C range has a Rear park assist System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, brake assist and big Brembo brakes.A comprehensive airbag package rounds out the 300C’s impressive safety features. PricingPricing for the 300C range starts at $53,990 for the 3.5 litre V6 auto sedan.The 6.1 litre, Hemi SRT8 auto that we tested starts at $71,990 for the sedan and $74,990 for the Touring – the most expensive car. DRIVINGOur first thought after seeing the 300C in the flesh was how the hell we were going to get it in and out of our miniscule car park without scraping it on one of the many — largely unnecessary – cement pylons. At over five meters long and a coat of paint under two meters wide, its no little shopping trolley.But seeing it in person also revealed its impressive, muscular presence. The huge grille, splashes of chrome and enormous 20” wheels gave it an attitude we reckoned would have attracted those of us who love a good gangster flick and want to bling their way round in a big mean car and count the stares.The 300C’s interior is cavernous. There’s a fine line between the luxury of a lot of space, and feeling you could get lost just in the centre console bin — it really doesn’t need to be that big. Just a fraction smaller and you wouldn’t need a two-way to speak to your passengers. But negatives aside, the seats are comfortable and supportive and the aluminium dash and thumping stereo give a prestigious feel.The sheer power of the big V8 doesn’t disappoint and is surprising given the car’s size. A short squirt on the throttle produces instant thrust and that 'thump in the back of your seat’ punch. Ride and handling — thanks to the 50/50 weight distribution and five-link rear suspension — is firm and smooth and it corners as well as a lot of cars half its size. All in all, it’s probably a little on the large side for out modest needs but it definitely shook off a lot of initial criticisms after a few days behind the wheel.