2003 Chrysler 300M: Road Test
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2003 Chrysler 300M ▼
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- MSRP: $28,885 -$32,315
- Invoice: $26,847 -$29,934
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Our road test for the 2003 Chrysler 300M includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chrysler 300M from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chrysler 300M, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chrysler 300M help you decide if a 2003 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 6-cyl near-luxury cars, pickup and throttle response are good--and competitive with any direct rival. Test 300M Special clocked 7.5 sec 0-60 mph. Automatic transmission can upshift too abruptly in rapid acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Test 300M averaged 14.4 mpg in mostly city driving; expect slightly higher overall. Test 300M Specials averaged 23.1 mpg in mostly highway driving, 16.2 mpg with gas-eating performance tests. 300M Special requires premium fuel; 300M uses regular.
RIDE QUALITY
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 8.2 |
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. Steering slightly dead on-center, however, with a trace of free play. Substantial brake-pedal pressure required in simulated panic stops, but stability is impressive, distances short.
QUIETNESS
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 7.8 |
Road and wind noise aren't intrusive, but 300Ms are not as isolated as Acura's TL or the Lexus GS 300. Road noise 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 | 5.7 |
Well-placed controls have excellent tactile feel. Electroluminescent lighting makes for readable main instrumentation at night, but markings don't stand out against gauge faces at dusk. 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 | 8.1 |
Very good space and comfort. Standard heated front bucket seats. Narrow rear window compromises aft visibility.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.6 |
Among the roomiest near-luxury cars, though seat cushion unevenly contoured for best comfort. Easy entry/exit through large doors.
CARGO ROOM
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Trunk among largest in near-luxury class, but opening isn't generous. Handy 60/40 split folding rear seatback is standard.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
300Ms give up a measure of prestige and refinement to the top competition, and their cabin decor is less sophisticated. But few similarly priced rivals match this blend of interior space and overall performance.
Total Score
| 300M | 300M Special | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 59 | 57 | 64.7 |
Total Score: 58
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