2003 Chrysler 300M: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Satellite radio comes to Chrysler's sporty near-luxury sedan for 2003. The 300M uses the front-wheel-drive chassis of the Chrysler Concorde and Dodge Intrepid, but is pitched as a European-flavored alternative with distinct styling and a slightly shorter body. Its V6 makes 250 hp in the basic 300M model and 255 in the performance-oriented 300M Special. Both use a 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. The Special has unique trim, lowered and stiffer suspension, 18-inch wheels vs. 17s, and xenon headlights. Both come with leather upholstery. A tire-pressure monitor and in-dash CD changer are standard on the Special, optional on the 300M. Added midyear was an optional Sirius satellite-radio receiver, which can tune in commercial-free stations for a $12.95 monthly fee.

COMPETITION

This hotly contested segment has its benchmark in the Lexus ES 300. It blends comfort, style, luxury, and sport into an efficient package at an affordable price. ES 300 manages to offer a little more luxury than others in the class.

We Recommend the Acura TL, Audi A4, and new Infiniti G35. All offer comfort, speed, and nimble handling at attractive prices. The sporty and Euro-flavored BMW 3-Series is Recommended 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.