2002 Chrysler 300M: Road Test
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2002 Chrysler 300M ▼
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- MSRP: $28,540 -$32,065
- Invoice: $26,536 -$29,709
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Our road test for the 2002 Chrysler 300M includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chrysler 300M from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chrysler 300M, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chrysler 300M help you decide if a 2002 Chrysler 300M is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.5 |
With more horsepower than most other 6-cyl near-luxury cars, pickup and throttle response are good--and competitive with any direct rival. Test 300M Special did 0-60 mph in 7.5 sec. Automatic transmission can upshift too abruptly in rapid acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.2 |
Test 300M averaged 14.4 mpg in mostly city driving; expect slightly higher in a more even city/highway mix. Test 300M Special averaged 16.2 mpg. Chrysler recommends 89 octane fuel for 300M. 300M Special requires premium.
RIDE QUALITY
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 8 |
300M rides firmly, but smothers bumps fairly well. Special's stiffer suspension and 18-inch tires make for an unforgiving ride on flawed pavement, so try before you buy.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6.6 |
300M changes direction with surprising assertiveness. Special takes handling up a notch to give this full-size sedan a credible performance feel. Steering slightly dead on-center, however, with a trace of free play. Strong braking performance. Substantial pedal pressure required in simulated panic stops, but stability is impressive, distances short.
QUIETNESS
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 7.5 |
Road and wind noise aren't intrusive, but the 300Ms aren't as well-isolated as Acura's TL or the Lexus GS 300. Road noise is bothersome on the Special, where the low-profile tires drone constantly. Most import sedans in this price range have smoother, nicer-sounding engines than this Chrysler V6.
CONTROLS
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Instruments tastefully designed, imaginatively illuminated. Controls well-placed and have excellent tactile feel. Materials and assembly are commendable overall, but not in a league with import rivals. Doors, for example, don't close with the muted "thump" of the best near-luxury cars.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 7.8 |
These 5-passenger sedans have standard heated, leather-covered front bucket seats. Space and comfort are head-of-the-class. Narrow rear window compromises aft visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 |
Among the roomiest near-luxury cars, though some testers find the seat cushion unevenly contoured for best comfort. Easy entry/exit through large doors.
CARGO ROOM
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
Trunk is among largest in near-luxury class, but suffers from a small opening. Standard 60/40 split folding rear seatback is handy.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
300Ms give up a tangible measure of refinement to the top competition, and their cabin decor isn't as sophisticated. But few similarly priced rivals match this blend of interior space and overall performance.
Total Score
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 59 | 57 | 62.4 |
Total Score: 58
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