2005 Chrysler 300: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chrysler christens a fresh flagship for 2005, switching from a front-wheel-drive V6 sedan to one that offers a choice of rear-drive and all-wheel drive, plus V8 power. The luxury-oriented 300 sedan shares its platform with the Dodge Magnum wagon and Charger sedan. Four models are offered: base, Touring, 300C, and 300C SRT-8. The base has a 190-hp V6, the Touring a 250-hp V6. The high-performance 300C and SRT-8 get V8s bearing Chrysler's Hemi badge. The 300C has a 340-hp 5.7-liter, the SRT-8 a 425-hp 6.1. Exclusive to the 5.7 V8 is Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System, which deactivates four cylinders under cruise conditions to save fuel. AWD is available on Touring and 300C models. Rear-drive V6 models have a 4-speed automatic transmission. AWD and V8 versions use a 5-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard. The SRT-8 has Brembo-brand brakes, sport suspension, and special seats and trim. ABS and antiskid/traction control are optional on the base 300, standard on the others. Tilt/telescope steering wheel and power driver seat are also standard. The SRT-8 has 20-inch wheels, the 300C and AWD Touring 18s, the others 17s. Available features include curtain side airbags, adjustable pedals, satellite radio, and Chrysler's UConnect, which uses the audio system as a hands-free, wireless link to cell phones.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large Cars comprise the biggest passenger sedans and wagons. Large, inside and out, they also include the only 6-passenger cars. Large Cars offer lots of metal for the money and are dominated by domestic brands.

Our Best Buys include the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum. Our Recommended picks are the Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego.