2013 Chrysler 300 C Luxury Series AWD (996)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2013 Chrysler 300 C Luxury Series AWD Sedan. You know, over the years the consumer has dictated how cars should look and so we have the look we see in this classic new Chrysler style. It was, after all, a practical lowering of the front of the car to reduce wind resistance long before wind tunnels were reshaping the design of the automobile. Of course we did it by hook or crook, and my first application was my 1949 Oldsmobile hardtop coupe that at the time was the love of my life. It was a very un-scientific heating of the front coil springs and then we jumped up and down on the front until we got the desired amount of “Rake”.

And those were the “Good old Days”? Well it was effective and looked cool. I doubt it improved the fuel economy which you must know those cars were lucky to get 8-10 mpg and the way I drove it was more like 5-8 mpg. But then at $.20 a gallon who was counting.

In any case I think this 300 C looks cool with the added benefit of actually getting great fuel economy at 18-27 mpg. You gotta love that for a large luxury sedan.

General Information:

It is assembled in Brampton, Ontario, Canada. Parts – US/Canadian 59% Mexico 15%; Engine – Mexico; Transmission – Germany; Classification is Large Cars. Cars from Chrysler: 200, 300 and Town & Country.

Handling & Performance:

Outstanding.

Styling:

Distinctive – and pretty pretty pretty.

Fit and Finish:

Excellent.

Cost:

Best bang for the buck amongst this luxury sedan line up.

Conveniences and comfort:

One feature that I never could understand is the remote start system… until I was in freezing conditions in the Pacific Northwest. I stood by the window pushed the start button and when I braved the freezing cold everything in the car was toasty warm. I was a believer there, but in many climates it is like an appendage that is not needed.

However there are some features I really liked as noted in the options. Although interesting, I could live without the auto high beams but if they throw it in that’s ok, but some that are worth paying for include: (in my opinion), the “smart cruise control” they refer to as adaptive speed control, and the sensors for rear and blind spot side and cross traffic detection. You really appreciate such features when you don’t have them as they are addictive and you come to depend on them very quickly. You may not want to wait until they are standard equipment… of course depending on your budget.

Consumer Recommendation:

There is little doubt in my mind that if you are in the market for luxury this 300C is the best bang for the buck. Some will be more impressed with the “Badge” rather than the value but clearly this wins the debate hands down as you don’t pay for the high end foreign imports name recognition. Definitely one to strongly consider. Me, I’m conflicted because I love the Hyundai Genesis as the only other that would turn my head when making the decision to choose between them.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler 300 $42,000, Acura TL $43,000, Audi A6 $42,000, BMW 5-Series $48,000, Cadillac CTS $56,000, Chevrolet Impala $36,000, Dodge Charger $32,000, Ford Fusion $32,000, Ford Taurus $31,000, Hyundai Genesis $47,000, Indiniti M $51,000, Jaguar XF Series $47,000, Kia Cadenza $35,000, Lexus GS $47,000, Lincoln MKS $45,000, Mercedes-Benz C-Class $39,000, Mercedes –Benz E-Class $51,000, Nissan Maxima $33,000, Toyota Avalon $36,000, VW Passat $34,000, Volvo S60 $45,000.

Good News:

Extremely well equipped luxury sedan that is priced well for all you get. Decent fuel economy, lots of power at your disposal, nice styling and an overall super smooth and comfortable ride.

Bad News:

None noted.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter 392 horsepower V6 engine, 8-speed automatic transmission, 4-wheel ABS (anti-lock brake system) performance disc brakes, stability control, traction control, power steering, front and side curtain airbags front and rear and driver knee bag, sentry key theft deterrent and security alarm system, keyless remote entry and remote start system, cruise control, heated and ventilated front seats, leather interior accents, power front seats, heated rear seats, Uconnect CD/DVD/MP3/Garmin navigation system, rear backup camera, 276 watt amplifier and 6-speakers, Bluetooth streaming audio, SiriusXM Satellite radio, climate control, steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, heated luxury steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering column, power adjustable pedals with memory, rear power sunshade, 19” polished aluminum wheels, 4-wheel independent AWD suspension, heated exterior mirrors.

Options:

for about $6,000 more you can opt for some pretty slick features, including blind spot and cross path detection, adaptive speed control, forward collision warning, rain sensitive wipers, adaptive headlights, auto high beam control, auto headlight leveling system, rear fog lights, dual pane panoramic sunroof and parking assist front and rear.

Gas Stats:

$3.99/ Gal avg. September 15, 2013

www.fueleconomy.gov

For more information.

18 City and 27 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $42,345.