2020 Chrysler 300

The Chrysler superweapon offers segment-exclusive features across 5 models. Rear-wheel drive is standard, so is the 292 hp 3.6L V6. The 300 has not evolved much and shares the same gene as the 2019 model. This pocket- friendly four-door sedan is built for a luxuriously smooth and comfortable ride. 

Trims	300 Touring	300 Touring L	300S	300 Limited
MSRP (3.6 L V6 RWD)	$30,500*	$33,000*	$38,000*	$40,000*
MSRP (3.6 L V6 AWD)	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
MSRP (5.2L Hemi V8 RWD)	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Key Features	Remote Keyless Enter & Go	Adds or Upgrades from Touring	Adds or Upgrades from Touring L	Adds or Upgrades from 300S
	Exterior Chrome finish	Value Package includes Panoramic sunroof	Exterior Black finish	Exterior Chrome finish
	LED daytime running headlamps			LED-illuminated front and rear map pockets
	17-in. Fine Silver wheel	18-in. polished aluminum wheel	20-in. Black Noise wheel	20-in. polished aluminum wheel
	Leather-wrapped Steering Wheel		Red S Appearance Package	Heated, Wood, leather-wrapped Steering
	Steering wheel-mounted audio controls		Sport Mode	Granite Crystal grille with chrome surround
	Six speakers Audio system		276-watt digital amplifier

*Estimated Value based on the 2019 model year.

The standard features include power front seats, cloth upholstery, 17-inch wheel, climate control system, LED-illuminated cup holders, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Uconnect 4C system, 8.4-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, radio and much more. 

Also, the 300 V6 can be optioned with the most advanced all-wheel-drive (AWD) in its class allowing the car to operate in rear-wheel-drive when all-wheel-drive is not needed to maximize fuel economy.

What do we recommend?

We’d choose the Touring L as the value proposition model as it offers better standard features at an affordable price. With this trim you get dual-zone climate control, keyless ignition adding much more convenience. Plus, a heated tilt/telescoping steering wheel and leather upholstery along with heated front seats for increased steering grip and comfortable seating.

The standard V6 and optional V8 powers the 300 rear wheels through a smooth 8-speed automatic transmission for an effortless and polished drive. However, V6 in 300S is calibrated with a sport-tuned exhaust and cold-air induction system for slightly more power than the standard. The athleticism of 300S is still in question and don’t be mistaken for “S” to be sports.

Models	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
MSRP	$30,500	$34,250	$35,800
Engine	3.6L V6	3.5L V6	3.5L V6
Transmission	8-Speed Automatic	CVT	8-Speed Automatic
Power	292 hp	300 hp	301 hp
Torque	260 lb-ft	261 lb-ft	267 lb-ft

The Chrysler 300 trims can be configured with RWD or AWD depending on the driving conditions. For better traction in snowy or wet conditions, AWD will be the right pick. Considering the higher curb weight, the 3.6L V6 300 may use some extra power for better performance. Anyways, 363 hp V8 Hemi would be the right choice for sports enthusiasts which inspires confidence.

How fast is the Chrysler 300?

The RWD V-6 300 does a commendable job by moving a 4000 pound Chrysler 300 admirably from 0 to 60 in 6.3 sec. Surprisingly, the acceleration of V8 isn’t vastly improved reaching 0-60 mph in less than 6-seconds. V8 is just enough for an adrenaline rush on a straight road.

Models	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
0-60 MPH	6.3	5.8	6
Quarter mile	15	14.5	14.6
Engine	3.6L	3.5L	3.5L
Emission (Tons/yr. of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)	8.4	7.4	7.1

With the eight-speed transmission, it finds just the right gear at any time. The quick response from shifters is always smooth and swift, making this sedan an enjoyable vehicle for drivers. The available Sport Mode increases accelerator pedal response, raises transmission shift points and calibrates the paddle shifters and electric power steering to sport performance settings.

How do the brakes perform on Chrysler 300?

The Chrysler 300 is equipped with standard 4-wheel discs with all-speed traction control along with the ABS system. The higher curb weight than the competitors makes the braking a bit obtrusive. 

Model	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
Brake Front(in)	12.6	13	12
Brake Rear(in)	12.6	12	11.1
Curb weight(lbs.)	4380	3676	3715
60-0 MPH (ft.)	N/A	120	115

Also, vented front and solid rear discs in the V6 all-wheel drive and V8 rear-wheel-drive enables consistent braking performance. However, you will have to shell extra penny for an additional automatic emergency braking system which adds to the safety.

What about the ride quality?

The Chrysler 300 has a legacy of the comfortable and luxurious ride but the 300S model defies the very principle. The 300 is not a sport sedan. Though the 300S has stiffer suspension along with standard 20-inch wheels which contribute to a ride that is a bit rough but keep it rally ready.

The base 17-inch wheels and soft suspension reduces NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) and accompanies responsive handling. Also, the AWD variant uses an active transfer case with front-axle disconnect which seamlessly engages at any speed to enable optimal traction and control based on conditions, driving style, and road surface. The 300 might be unfriendly during aggressive cornering.

Around the world, the Chrysler 300 gained popularity for being “Poor man’s Bentley”. Aptly, the affordable base model drains the almost an equivalent amount of gas as others in the segment. It must be noted that RWD offers better fuel economy figures than the AWD which drops those figures to 18/27/21 mpg.

Model	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
MPG (city)	19	20	22
MPG (highway)	30	30	32
MPG (combined)	23*	24	26

Though the likes of Maxima and Avalon exhibits improved fuel economy, the 300 offers a more comprehensive package of uncompromised comfort and luxury along with fuel efficiency.

The luxurious and spacious interiors have been the USP of the Chrysler 300. With 5-passenger seating, it is as roomier on the inside as on the outside. The easy entry and exit, striking controls and seating comfort rank it higher than its competitors. 

Model	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
Passenger capacity	5	5	5
Passenger Volume (ft. cube)	106.3	98.5	104.3
Front (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	38.6/59.5/41.8	39.4/56.7/45	37.4/58.3/42.1
Rear (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (In.)	37.9/57.7/40.1	36.7/55.7/34.2	37.5/57.1/40.3

Also, higher trims add convenience features which include leather-wrapped sport seats along with front and rear ventilated seats ensuring that everyone inside stays warm and comfy in the journey. Plus, leather-wrapped power-adjustable steering, exclusive Piano Black interior accents give you a better grip. It is high time for the Chrysler to come up with some new tricks up its sleeves to outclass the likes of the Kia Cadenza and the Buick LaCrosse.

How’s the tech inside the cabin of Chrysler 300?

The Uconnect 4C system of Chrysler 300 is best in class with an 8.4-inch intuitive touchscreen having on-screen instructions. The standard features also include a six-speaker audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio with a one-year trial period. The navigation remains optional.

For music enthusiasts, signature nine-speaker Alpine Audio system with surround sound and a trunk-mounted subwoofer are also available. 

How much is the Cargo Capacity of Chrysler 300?

The Chrysler 300 offers a typical cargo space of 16.3 ft comparable to its rivals. The higher lift-over height needs an extra effort to lift the luggage, making it unfriendly for the elder folks. Further, the 60/40 split-folding rear seat supplements cargo capacity for hauling large items.

Model	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
Cargo Volume with rear seats up (ft.3)	16.3	14.3	16.09

The 300 offers if not class-leading cargo space, then more than enough of it. It offers features and rides as expected from a big sedan of today with the all-American presence. When it comes to this old-school sedan, there's ultimately better than worse.

Creature comforts on offer

• Six premium speakers with 276-watt digital amplifier
• AM/FM/HD radio system
• Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto
• Integrated Voice Command with Bluetooth
• Media Hub with audio jack and two USB ports

The 300 is extremely populous within its class as always. The modern-day 300 design is inspired by the old classic Chrysler C-300 and has remained so throughout its life. The Chrysler 300 remains the bold choice showcasing the American ingenuity among its competitors, crafting ever so evolving sleek styling and design. The longer Wheelbase accompanies smooth ride and adds luxury, but at the same time, it hampers the cornering ability. The conditional visibility for the driver is another drawback.

The Chrysler 300s trim can be customized with Red S Appearance Package which adds Black Noise-color exterior badges, red inserts on the Chrysler wing badge and 20-inch Black Noise aluminum wheels. A radar red interior is also an option available with the package.

Models	Chrysler 300	Nissan Maxima	Toyota Avalon
Curb Weight(lbs.)	4013	3559	3560
Length(in)	198.6	192.8	195.9
Width(in)	75	73.2	72.8
Height(in)	58.5	56.5	56.5
Ground clearance(in)	4.7	7.3	5.3
Wheelbase(in)	120	109.3	113
Track width(in) F/R	63.4/63.8	62.4/62.4	63.0/63.6

To keep up the sporty and athletic look of SRT, the FCA introduced a sports appearance package on 300s trim and three new colors which will be made available later. 

Highlights of the exterior design

• Black grille with bright surround
• LED daytime running headlamps
• Black headlamp bezels
• Power adjust/manual foldaway, heated Mirrors

This category is the weakest for the old classic Chrysler 300 as it comes with un-changed safety equipment or construction. Newer the safety architecture, the better it would be. We hope it will earn similar ratings as a 2019 model, where the Chrysler 300 earns a four-star rating from NHTSA. The IIHS likewise rates the 300 “Marginal” in small-overlap driver’s side and “Poor” in headlight test.

Although, optional automatic emergency braking in 300S and higher trims received a “Superior” rating in the forward-collision avoidance test. Other optional advanced safety equipment will include adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning, rear cross-path detection, lane-departure warning and much more but at extra cost. Some of the standard features are

• Standard Electronic stability control
• Child Seat Anchor System (LATCH)
• Parkview rear backup camera
• Security alarm
• Anti-theft engine immobilizer
• Tire-pressure monitoring display

Chrysler 300 Vs Nissan Maxima

The Chrysler 300 is an affordable four-door sedan offering a premium to luxury experience moving from base to higher trims. The maxima are not so luxurious “four-door sports sedan” as claimed by the automaker. The powerful V6 in Maxima offers comparatively more power and acceleration. Also, the maxima can drive you better through a rough road but compromise on handling. Surely, Chrysler 300 scores better in terms of space, better ride comfort and smooth performance.

Chrysler 300 Vs Toyota Avalon

Avalon signifies comfort, ride quality and reliability which are Toyota’s basic traits. It surely fairs better when it comes to advanced safety features. But someone looking for refined performance and luxury should opt for Chrysler 300. Also, Chrysler 300 is a unique American rear-wheel-drive comparable to none. Though the TRD version of Avalon is surprisingly athletic with better MPG ratings.

 

The Chrysler 300 is one of the few affordable full-size sedans configured with rear-wheel drive with an option of mighty V8. This four-door sedan fulfills the American dream of owning an old school powerhouse loaded with technology. Despite the old architecture of 300, it sits in line with its competitors in terms of standard safety features. The 300 offers exceptional ride comfort at the expense of handling.