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Rating 
SummaryRecommended. Overstyled, oversized and over here... The 300C is actually part European, despite its all-American looks: the chassis comes from the last Mercedes E Class. |
ReviewYou will have no problem spotting the 300C! Chrysler's luxury saloon is big and brash, with four engines that range from the sublime to the ridiculous. Top of the bill is the 6.1-litre HEMI that makes a petrol-engined Range Rover look like a frugal runabout. European buyers are obviously more likely to opt for the 3.0 diesel, which not only does better at the pumps but also offers masses of torque. It's the same unit fitted to the latest Jeep Grand Cherokee and can still power to 60mph in under eight seconds. Based on the same platform as the last generation Mercedes E-Class, the 300C sits well on the road and is supremely comfortable. It handles well too, although its 1800 kg bulk does eventually put a limit on its surprising agility, and powerful brakes are a bonus. Compared to executive rivals, the Chrysler represents remarkable showroom value for money, equipped with luxury trim and high-tech driving aids. In the long-term, everything hinges on its resale value, usually the kiss of death for big cars without a prestige badge. The unforgettable looks, comparative rarity in the UK and European engineering may allow the 300C to limit the damage somewhat. In its home market, it has been a runaway success and picked up a number of awards - although beating Buicks and Pontiacs is not the stiffest task in the industry.
Breakdown
Styling Massive road presence - massive car! Looks like no other, but is the 300C is too radical to be a massive seller... |
Handling Despite the dimensions, the rear-wheel drive layout and suspension set up makes it surprisingly agile for both city and country driving. |
Comfort Interior takes four people in comfort, with plenty of standard equipment. Ride is soft and forgiving but there's minimal body roll. |
Quality & reliability  Compared to a Jaguar or BMW, build quality is only average in the 300C. Dashboard controls lack that solid feel you find in European rivals. |
Performance  British buyers are almost certain to opt for the torquey diesel. However, if you have shares in an oil company the 6.1-litre HEMI will keep up with a Porsche 911. |
Roominess Masses of space, especially in the back, with more legroom than most rivals. There's lots of luggage space and enough cubby holes dotted around the cabin. |
Running costs Unless you are sensible and pick the diesel, the 300C can be thirsty. The 3.5 V6 petrol is smooth but lacks the punch of the 5.7 and 6.1 models. |
Value for money On paper the big Chrysler looks a winner, with lots of standard kit and plenty of image. Secondhand prices are likely to be fairly dismal though... |
Stereo / Sat nav The 300C's stereo unit dominates the centre console and is best described as 'chunky'. The sound is fairly meaty too, as you might expect in an executive saloon. Sat nav is an expensive £1,800 option. |
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