CarTest! Expert car reviews and advice | home
![]() CarTest! Expert car reviews and advice | CarTest Contents | New Car Reviews | Used Car Reviews | What is your car worth? | Automotive NewsBriefs | Award-Winning Models | Find the Best Vehicle | Automotive Advice | Save on Gas | Driving Tips & Maintenance Advice | Safety Research & Insurance Tips | Tire Advice | Road Trips | Auto Racing | Classics & Collectibles | Newsletter | About Us | SEARCH CarTest!
|
|||
![]() ![]() ©CarTest.ca. All rights reserved.
![]() ![]() ![]() |
2011 Chrysler 300
![]() This grand sedan puts Chrysler back into the luxury game
By Malcolm Gunn
![]() ![]() Since the automaker's takeover by Italy's Fiat organization, the designers and product planners now toiling for the reorganized Chrysler Group LLC have been busily reshaping, reinventing or rebranding just about every model in the company's lineup. And, well, that takes time.
Chrysler's flurry of activity sparked plenty of interest in Detroit, but what's all the hype about? The 300 doesn't look all that different from the 2010 model, does it?
As with the rest of the Chrysler line, the big sedan has been drastically upgraded in several crucial areas, chiefly the interior and under the hood.
On the outside, however, is the same basic shape, except that the car has been treated to a new front end, including projector-style headlights and a simplified grille that actually appears less distinctive. For any prospective customers who prefer the original egg-crate design, Chrysler can supply it or an optional mesh-style "Bentley" insert for that custom look.
![]() But more about that new interior. The 300 receives all new front seats with adjustable lumbar support and upgraded standard and optional coverings and door-panel materials. As well, the redesigned dashboard and high-contrast blue-white gauges help create a more upscale presence, assisted by genuine wood and aluminum-look trim pieces. The fact is, it's not as much about the materials as it is the smooth and detailed design that really ratchets up the look of it all.
For keeping unwanted noise out of the cabin, additional acoustic insulation and better door seals are in place.
From a driving standpoint, the 300 has always straddled the line between comfort and precision, depending on your definition of either term. The 2011 model receives some fine tuning in both dimensions, actually, with the intension of improving both control and comfort.
The 300's specs now include a brand new 292-horsepower 3.6-litre V6 base engine that replaces he outgoing and weak-by-comparison 250-horse 3.5-litre V6 engine.
For best thrust, Chrysler's 5.7-litre "Hemi" V8 returns for 2011 with 363 horsepower and the ability to run on only four of its eight cylinders under light load conditions, which saves a bit of fuel.
Both engines operate through five-speed automatic transmissions, however Chrysler has announced plans to put an eight-speed automatic into the mix later this year, which will also aid economy as well as performance.
![]() For a base price of $34,400 which is unchanged from the 2010 300 (including destination costs), the base Touring model includes dual-zone climate control, multi-position power driver's chair, tilt/telescoping steering column, keyless push-button start plus numerous other power features.
The 300 Limited includes leather seats (heated in front), backup camera, premium Alpine-brand audio package and 18-inch wheels (17-inch wheels are standard).
The 300C adds to the Limited's content with fancier interior trim, perforated-leather seats (heated and cooled front and rear), power-adjustable pedals and dual heated and cooled cup holders.
Of course there are numerous extra-cost items available that could boost the 300C's base price well above the $45,000 threshold. That's true luxury-car territory where the new 300 now really and truly belongs.
What you should know: 2011 Chrysler 300
Type: Four-door, rear- /all-wheel-drive full-size sedan
Engines (hp): 3.6-litre DOHC V6 (292); 5.7-litre OHV V8 (363)
Transmission: Five-speed automatic.
Market position: Full-size sedans generate only a small percentage of auto sales, but the revamped 300 is seen as setting the tone for the brand. In that role, it projects new-found luxury and style more fitting of an upscale car.
Points: Not as much of a statement as the outgoing 300; The interior redesign is a major step up; Standard 3.6-litre V6 packs a decent punch and is easy on gas; 5.7-litre Hemi option is fun, but you'll pay at the pump; AWD option almost mandatory for winter excursions; Chrysler is keeping the price at 2010 level.
Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; side-curtain airbags; driver's side knee airbag; anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control.
L/100 km (city/hwy): 12.0/7.3(3.6, est.)
Base price (incl. destination): $34,400
By comparison
Ford Taurus
Base price: $29,600
Sharp looks with focus on comfort. SHO model delivers lively performance.
Toyota Avalon
Base price: $42,600
Camry-based premium four-door that strives for Lexus-like fit and finish.
Buick LaCrosse
Base price: $33,200
Stylish, FWD/AWD sedan with thrifty four-cylinder or optional 280-hp V6.
Malcolm Gunn is an automotive writer based in Moncton, NB, and a regular contributor to CarTest!
Posted February 28, 2021. © CarTest.ca TM
![]() Search CarTest!
![]()
Custom Search
|