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2011 Chrysler 300 test drive

About.com Rating 4 Star Rating
User Rating 3.5 Star Rating (2 Reviews) Write a review

By , About.com Guide

2011 Chrysler 300 V6 engine

2011 Chrysler 300 V6 engine

Photo © Aaron Gold

What I liked about the Chrysler 300:

  • Vastly improved interior
  • Excellent V6 engine
  • Acres of interior space

What I didn't like:

  • Trunk isn't very big for a car this size
  • Could be more involving to drive
  • Expensive compared to its domestic rivals

Who should buy the Chrysler 300:
Buyers looking for a comfy cruiser with lots of stretch-out space

Who should not buy the Chrysler 300:
Those seeking the attitude of the previous-generation 300

Details and specs:

  • Body style: 4-door sedan,
  • Seating capacity: 5
  • Trim levels: Base, Limited, C
  • Price range (including options): $27,995 - $45,925
  • Base engine: 3.6 liter V6, 292 hp @ 6,350 RPM, 260 lb-ft @ 4,800 RPM
  • Optional engine(s): 5.7 liter V8, 363 hp @ 5,200 RPM, 394 lb-ft @ 4,200 RPM
  • Premium fuel required? 89 octane recommended (but not required) for V8
  • Transmission: 5-speed automatic
  • Driveline: Front engine, rear- or all-wheel-drive
  • EPA fuel economy estimates: 18 MPG city/27 MPG highway (V6 RWD), 16/25 (V8 RWD), 15/23 (V8 AWD)
  • Trunk space: 16.3 cu. ft.
  • Where built: Canada
  • Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
  • Optional safety equipment: Blind spot warning system
  • Major standard features: Dual-zone climate control, keyless entry and ignition, AM/FM/CD stereo with touch screen and iPod-compatible USB port, cruise control, auto-dimming rear view mirror
  • Major options: Leather upholstery, power driver seat, adaptive headlights, premium stereo, adaptive cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity, power passenger seat, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, rain-sensing wipers, power steering column, rear window shade, dual-pane sunroof
  • Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/100,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/100,000 miles outer body rust-through
  • Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles roadside assistance

Best rivals:

Disclosure: This test drive was conducted at a manufacturer-sponsored press event. Accommodations, food, vehicles and fuel were provided by Chrysler. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

User Reviews

 4 out of 5
So??, Member Paddybrit

It seems that you don't want a new 300, which is just fine, but you are in error regarding the price of the SHO. With a base of $48K it is $9k more that the 300 Limited & $6k more than a 300C, complete with HEMI V8. You also seem to be unaware that the SHO burns more fuel than either the 300 Limited or even the V8 300C. Not to mention that both of the noted 300s run happily on regular fuel which the SHO gags on -- another 20% difference in fuelling costs. The new 300 is a sleek & sophisticated package, while the Taurus is everymans daily drive

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