2010 Chrysler 300 Review
The Chrysler 300, a proud and prestigious vehicle
during the 1950s. It fell into anonymity during the '60s and then pretty
much disappeared from the automotive landscape for more than 30 years.
Only with the current model has Chrysler revived the accolades and
respect that once surrounded this proud nameplate. Thanks to its
distinctive styling, roomy interior and powerful performance
capabilities, the 2010 Chrysler 300 has become a popular choice in the
large sedan segment. The 300C trim level, in particular, is an
impressive vehicle thanks to its powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine. The 300
comes with a choice of two V-6s. The 300 is offered in Touring, Touring
Signature and Limited trim levels for rear-wheel-drive models and
Touring Signature and Limited for the all-wheel-drive 300. Chrysler 300
competitors include the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Impala. There are no
significant changes for 2010. Architecture will be the same, but
improvements will be made with multiple refinements.
Design of the 2010 300
Chrysler faced the difficult challenge of reinventing
an icon when it went to the drawing board for the next 300. The current
generation 300 possesses a shape similar to that of its predecessor, but
looks more elegant. The 300 looks bold and imposing, flaunting a
distinctive shape for a sedan. There are optional automatic headlamps.
The 300's styling is unmistakably American. The large chrome grille,
double-lens headlights, high beltline, bulging fenders and big wheels
give it a strong presence on the road. Base models have heated mirrors,
and there are optional auto-dimming, fold-away mirrors with memory
features. Up front, Chrysler moves to a new corporate grille, first
previewed on the Imperial concept and most recently, the 200C EV concept
shown at the 2009 Detroit auto show. The thin horizontal chrome bars are
sleeker than the egg crate worn by the current car, and they give the
new 300 less of a boxy, road-barge look. Headlight clusters are squared
and smoothed, while the front bumper is much more integrated, tightening
up the chin. The 300 will again feature fender flares, but the lower
part of the arch is much less prominent. The upper body crease creates a
gently arching shoulder in place of the straight and sharp line of the
current model and the new 300 also loses the side molding, giving the
upper crease more definition. Expect visibility to be improved though
slimmer A-pillars, more glass, and a much smaller C-pillar created
through the use of a small A-frame window at the rear.
Chrysler 300 Power
Hemi fans can relax, as the V-8 featuring cylinder
deactivation will carry over from the existing model, and it should
boast increases in both power and fuel economy. The 2010 300 is also be
available with an all-new fuel-efficient Phoenix six-cylinder engine,
and should produce at least 260 hp. Two V-6 engines are available, and
the optional all-wheel-drive system features Chrysler's active transfer
case and front-axle disconnect that automatically disengages the front
axle from the drivetrain when all-wheel drive is not needed, in an
effort to increase fuel economy.
Inside the 300
Sticking with the clean theme of the exterior, the
2010 cabin appears simple and refined. Cabin dimensions are generous in
all directions, and the 300 offers more legroom than most of its
competitors. Its overall interior design has been described as simple
but elegant. The dash area effectively combines sporty, semi-retro and
luxury motifs. The 300 can seat five and has excellent rear seat space.
Available options include a premium sound package from Boston Acoustics
and an iPod interface with Chrysler's UConnect hands-free phone system.
Limited and Signature trims include dual-zone automatic climate control.
The instrument panel houses two large circular gauges, similar to those
in the Ram, while a large display operating Chrysler's UConnect
infotainment system tops the center console. The climate controls reside
below the screen.
Driving the 300
The 2010 Chrysler 300 is a powerful and well
controlled sedan. It is fun to drive, whether cruising on the highway or
through the city. While the Hemi V8 gives an extra oomph of power, the
V6 engines work great, and are more fuel efficient. For safety antilock
brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system are optional
on the base sedan and standard on higher trim levels. Side curtain
airbags are standard. SmartBeam headlights automatically dim when they
sense approaching traffic and are available for all trims.
Conclusions
The Chrysler 300 is a large five-passenger sedan with rear-wheel or
all-wheel drive. It's been designed to appeal to consumers desiring
something with a bit more personality than a regular family sedan or an
alternative to popular Japanese or European entry-luxury sedans. Some of
the 300's underlying mechanicals are derived from Mercedes-Benz
technology, and it's a platform sibling to the Dodge Charger. For fuel
economy the 2010 300 gets City: 17 – 18 and Highway: 23 – 26. It has a
starting MSRP of $27,260 – $37,415