2005-2008 Chrysler 300: Road Test

Acceleration with 2.7-liter V6 feels tepid; Chrysler says 11.0 sec 0-60 mph. Touring adequately quick, even with AWD; Chrysler quotes 9.0 sec 0-60. V8-powered 300C responsive at any speed; 6.3 sec 0-60, says Chrysler. Brawny SRT8 lends credence to Chrysler's 5.0 sec 0-60 claim. Both transmissions suffer some lag before downshifting, but the 5-speed's manual shift gate helps. Test Touring models averaged 19.5 mpg in rear-drive form, 19.7 with AWD. Test 300C averaged 14.4 mpg in mixed driving, 17.9 mpg with more highway use. Chrysler recommends 87-octane fuel for the 2.7 V6, 89 octane for the 3.5 V6 and 5.7 V8, 91 octane for SRT8. Independent rear suspension patterned on a design from parent-company Mercedes-Benz helps deliver smooth ride, though some testers complain of annoying jiggling on rippled freeways. SRT8 impressively smooth, despite 20-inch tires and firmer suspension tuning. 300 feels stable at highway speeds, with good balance and grip in turns, though not as agile as similarly sized European sedans in quick changes of direction. SRT8 sportier still, with reduced lean in corners and firm, direct steering. V6s cruise quietly, roar noticeably during acceleration. V8s have throaty, subdued growl. Tire thrum evident, but not objectionable. Wind rush rises with speed, but doesn't interfere with conversation. Large, clear gauges, but some testers find nighttime legibility compromised because full instrument faces are backlit, rendering markings indistinct. All controls within easy reach, though steering-column stalk for cruise control easily confused with turn-signal/wiper stalk. Despite small screen, navigation system relatively simple to use. Cabin has some budget-grade plastic trim, but most materials look and feel upscale. Lots of head and leg room, though AWD versions have slightly narrower passenger footwell. Flat seat bottoms cause passengers to slide during aggressive cornering except in SRT8, which has grippy suede seat inserts. Tall tail, wide rear pillars reduce driver's aft visibility. Thick front pillars interfere with view to corners. Large, deep trunk. Hinges don't intrude, but liftover is fairly high, and opening too small to load large cargo.

Value for the Money
Acceleration with the 2.7-liter V6 is weak, but the boldly styled 300 is an otherwise Best Buy combination of performance, roominess, and value. The startling SRT8 outpowers cars costing twice as much with little compromise of the 300's other virtues