2002 Chrysler 300M: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chrysler's sporty near-luxury sedan gained an even-sportier edition for 2002. Called the 300M Special, the new version bowed midyear with unique trim, lowered and stiffer suspension, 18-inch wheels vs. 17s, and brighter Xenon headlights. Both the 300M and 300M Special use the same front-wheel-drive chassis as the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid, but have distinct styling and shorter bodies. Standard is a 250-hp V6 (255 hp on Special) and 4-speed automatic transmission with Chrysler's AutoStick with separate gate for manual shifting. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control are standard. Front side airbags are optional. A tire-pressure monitor is standard on the Special, optional on the 300M.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has two clear benchmarks; the Acura TL and Lexus ES 300. Both succeed in blending comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 offers a little more luxury and TL, with it's Type-S, a bit more sport.

We Recommend the sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series as a rear-drive alternative. The "3" has enough bodystyles and engine choices to suit anyone. At the other end of the near-luxury spectrum is the posh and comfortable Buick Park Avenue--an old-school luxo-cruiser from Detroit.