Overview & Reviews

Like Cher, the Chrysler 300 just keeps making comebacks. A proud and prestigious vehicle during the 1950s, the 300 fell into anonymity during the '60s and then disappeared from the automotive landscape for more than 30 years. For the mid-2000s, though, Chrysler introduced its new 300, and it represented a bold new direction for the brand.

The 300 was an immediate hit thanks to its retro-inspired styling, powerful V8 engines, rear-wheel drive and refined road manners. Consumer interest did start to wane after a few years, but Chrysler is going for another comeback this year with a redesigned 300 that features a more powerful base V6 and a higher-quality interior. Overall, we like the 300 and find it to be a solid pick for a new or used large sedan.

Current Chrysler 300
The Chrysler 300 is a large five-passenger sedan with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. It's been designed to appeal to consumers desiring something with a bit more personality than a regular family sedan or as an alternative to popular Japanese or European entry-luxury sedans. Some of the 300's underlying mechanicals are derived from Mercedes-Benz technology, and it's a platform sibling to Dodge's Challenger and Charger.

The 300's styling is unmistakably American, though with an added dash of refinement after its 2011 redesign. The large chrome grille, bejeweled headlights, high beltline, bulging fenders and big wheels give it a strong presence on the road. A long 120-inch wheelbase shortens up the front and rear overhangs and opens up plenty of occupant space on the inside. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions, and the 300 offers more legroom than most of its competitors.

Its overall interior design has been described as simple but elegant. More importantly, that interior is now decked out in high-class materials that are pleasing to behold and touch. Even in its least expensive form, the 300 feels like a luxury car.

There are six trim levels: base, Limited, 300S V6, 300C, 300 S V8 and SRT8. The first three come with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 292 horsepower. The base model comes standard with a five-speed automatic transmission. An eight-speed automatic that's standard on all other V6 models is optional. The 300C and 300S V8 get a 5.7-liter "Hemi" V8 that produces 363 hp. The SRT8 has a 6.3-liter, 470-hp V8. Rear-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic are standard, and all-wheel drive is optional on all but the base and SRT8.

Standard equipment includes niceties like automatic headlights, keyless ignition/entry, automatic dual-zone climate control, a power driver seat and a small touchscreen interface. Moving up to the Limited or 300C nets you (among other things) a rearview camera, heated front seats, Bluetooth and an upgraded sound system. The S gets unique styling elements, an upgraded electronics interface and a special Beats by Dr. Dre sound system. Many additional features are available to make the 300 just as luxurious and well-equipped as luxury sedans that cost thousands more. This is especially true of the SRT8, which comes standard with just about everything.

On the move, the new 300 glides down the road in a way reminiscent of a big Mercedes-Benz sedan. Its suspension dampens even heavily rutted pavement with sophistication, yet it does so without being overly soft or floaty. Handling and steering are also impressive, and although the V8 engines may be the biggest draw, the V6 is quite strong. The only significant downside to the car is compromised rear visibility.

Used Chrysler 300 Models
The current Chrysler 300 dates back to 2011. Though it may look like the car it replaces and has the same general underlying architecture, the second-generation 300 differs significantly. Besides the interior overhaul, the structure has been stiffened, the steering is now electrically assisted and the suspension has been recalibrated for better ride quality and more composed handling. Chrysler also added an abundance of sound-deadening materials to create one of the quietest cabins on the road.

In its first year, only the base, Limited and 300C trims were available, and a five-speed automatic was standard across the board. The S and SRT8 trims arrived a year later along with the V6's eight-speed auto.

The previous-generation Chrysler 300 was produced from 2005-'10. It had the same general shape and design theme as the current car, and even shared the same platform, but there are countless differences used car buyers should be aware of. In general, the interior wasn't nearly as well-crafted, the driving experience wasn't as refined and the two V6 engine choices were unimpressive.

The base car (known either as LX or Touring depending on the year) came with a 2.7-liter V6 that produced only 178 hp. This was insufficient for such a large car, and its fuel economy was poor. Stepping up to a higher trim level got you a 3.5-liter V6 with a more impressive 250 hp, though acceleration was still pretty mediocre. To make matters worse, both came with a four-speed automatic.

As such, we recommend finding a used Chrysler 300C, which packs a 5.7-liter V8 and five-speed automatic. It originally produced 340 hp, but this was upgraded for '09 to 359 horses. That year also saw the introduction of a more sophisticated optional all-wheel-drive system (available on both 300C and certain V6 models) that allowed the driver to "depower" the front drive wheels for better handling and fuel economy.

Next up on the 300 ladder was the high-performance SRT8. Its 6.1-liter V8 pumped out 425 horses, but it also got a stiffer suspension setup, more powerful brakes and a larger wheel-and-tire package. Throughout this generation, there were also special trims, including the long-wheelbase Walter P. Chrysler Executive/Signature Series (2007-'10) and the 300S (2010 only), which was essentially the 300C with additional sport and luxury features.

Changes other than the ones mentioned above were mild for the first-generation 300C. The most significant occurred for '08, when Chrysler updated the interior and navigation and entertainment systems. Front-seat side airbags also joined side curtain airbags on the option list that year, so make sure to check if a used 300 is equipped as such.

In Edmunds.com reviews of the previous-generation Chrysler 300, the car fared quite well. Our editors commented favorably on its masculine good looks, powerful V8 engines and value for the dollar. Negatives concerned the meager output and poor fuel economy of the V6 engines, some low-rent interior plastics and the car's poor outward visibility.

Going further back, the Chrysler 300 has a long but patchy history. It came into being in the mid-1950s as a way to showcase Chrysler's new "Hemi" V8 engine. The first 300 was introduced for 1955 and was based on the New Yorker two-door hardtop. Its 5.4-liter V8 developed 300 hp. After that, Chrysler began affixing sequential letters at the end of "300" for each year as well as offering different body styles, including a convertible. The 1957 300-C is typically considered the most beautiful and desirable of these early cars. The Hemi engines were discontinued in the 300 after 1958, but Chrysler continued to use the letter designations up until the '65 300-L. After that it was the plain 300. In total, there were seven generations of this car before it was dropped after the 1971 model year.

The 300 name was briefly resurrected in 1979 for a special version of the rather awful Cordoba. It would then take another 20 years before Chrysler decided to roll out the 300 moniker again. This was the 1999 300M. Unlike previous 300s, this was a front-drive sedan only. Based on the second generation of Chrysler's "cab forward" LH platform, the 300M used a 3.5-liter V6, making 253 hp (that's net horsepower, a far more conservative standard than the "gross" rating used prior to 1972) and mounted longitudinally in the engine bay. It was built through the 2004 model year.

User Reviews:

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  Hemi Engine Problem - 2006 Chrysler 300
  By L.K. Johansen - October 15 - 5:13 pm

  At 26,500 miles my hemi broke down with a broken valve spring. I was towed and was without my 300C for a week. Out-of- town dealer replaced all 16 valve springs and plugs. Runs fine now, but I could not believe the stares I got with my hood up and flasher lights blinking last Friday night on a major thoroughfare. I was shocked and disappointed that this could happen. I have never abused my 300C by driving it too hard. My car shook violently and I lost power rapidly. The check engine light flashed unmercifully. I will give my hemi one more chance. The next time I am trading for either a Japanese or German car. I guess American built reliability is still highly suspect.

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  2008 300C: A great buy - 2008 Chrysler 300
  By OceanP - October 11 - 11:33 pm

  After a younger generation of my family totalled my Lincoln LS on ice, I was in the market for a replacement. Drove many of the "reliable" imports: ranging from Infinity to Lexus. Then I drove the 300C. The others are all great cars, but none offered the classic styling and the WOW effect of the 300C, and the power of the HEMI. The car has been great so far and consistently gives 22 to 23 mpg on the highway runs visiting my kid at college. Great comfort, ride and performance to boot! And unique looks to go with it. The interior could stand to be upgraded a bit. You can see where Chrysler cut corners: But still very liveable inside and out. Just wish the exhaust note was a bit throatier.

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  Looks good but made with cheap parts! - 2006 Chrysler 300
  By Julia Davis - October 11 - 9:58 pm

  It is made with cheap parts that will keep you at a dealer. ALL the pins in my motor broke in half and they were hollow. The mechanic said that most pins are solid all the way through so if they broke once they will do it again. Every time I took it in, I was told they get alot of 300s in with all types of problems and most of them have to do with the motor. I love the look but hate the way it kept me at a dealer. Im glad I got rid of it.

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  Gas Gauge - 2007 Chrysler 300
  By John M - October 6 - 8:34 pm

  I have had my 300C since Nov 2007. Now just in the last 6 weeks I have twice run out of gas with my gas gauge showing 1/4 of a tank. I will be taking my car to the dealer this Friday.

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  Bang for the buck - 2006 Chrysler 300
  By Daryl Buerger - October 6 - 7:03 pm

  This is the best full sized sedan in its price range. Look no further. I did exhaustive research and comparisons before buying. Almost went with the Charger but stuck with the 300C because a few more luxury features. This cars feel and roadability is outstanding. plenty of power and good fuel economy. I average 18 city and 22 hwy. with the MDS system The interior comfort is great with a ample rear seat room. This car still get lots of attention where ever it goes and it has the ability to get there fast. My 300 is loaded with every option Dont skimp here Ive rented less equipped 300s and chargers only to love the one I have more! Not one disappointment yet.

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  very dissaified owner of a 300 limited - 2005 Chrysler 300
  By joe - October 2 - 5:37 pm

  i bought my 300 limited new 2005 first problem the left back and quarter panel primer was showing through the paint took car back to dealer car was repaired. At 49000 miles car would smoke out the exhaust when started after setting over night using almost 2 quarts of oil in 2000 miles seals around valve stems were shot 1500 dollar repair bill. I have traded this vehicle no more chrysler card or truck in this household.

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  Best car that I have ever driven - 2005 Chrysler 300
  By NoVa Driver - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I have been driving my 300C for the past two weeks. Simply outstanding. Great performance (save for the gas mileage -- but I am still breaking the engine in), great ride, and definitely catches peoples attention. All of the folks who have taken a drive with me say that the passenger seats have plenty of room and are very comfortable.

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  Jesus H. Chrysler! - 2005 Chrysler 300
  By Barefoot Serpent - September 30 - 10:00 am

  Dame Chrysler finally comes close to hitting one out of the park. With this car and, especially the Crossfire, the Mercedes/Chrysler marriage is beginning to produce attention-getting, praiseworthy offspring.

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  Great Car - 2005 Chrysler 300
  By JDM1 - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I have owned a e320 Mercedes and this is comparable. The ride is exactly the same. A much better value. Everybody talks and looks at this car. Thrilled with the car.

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  best buy in class - 2005 Chrysler 300
  By mnfraser - September 30 - 10:00 am

  I have been looking at used M5s, CTS-Vs, and the 300C. The CTS-V is 90% of the car of an M5 for 2/3 the price - and the 300C is 90% of the car at 2/3 the price of the CTS-V (ok, 80% of the engine, at 340 hp vs 400 for the CTS-V, but 95% or more when it comes to features, handling and styling). I have a few small build problems, such as the center console not being bolted into place upon purchase, and a sticky radio tuning button. Be warned that the gas mileage is much more like 15 to 20 mpg than the 18 to 25 advertised on the sticker. I paid $1,500 over msrp. All in all, a fine car, and nearly 30 days in, I would buy it again.