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     The 2010 Chrysler 300 comes from  a long and storied history. A proud and prestigious vehicle during the 1950s, the 300 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. The modern 300 was established in 2004, and the new Chrysler 300 burst onto the scene alongside popular models like the Dodge Magnum and Charger. 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. An optional long wheelbase rear-wheel drive model is available that allows for a rear seat area much larger than the standard car.  The 2010 Chrysler 300 has an MSRP of $27,260 - $37,415 and an EPA fuel economy of 26 mpg Hwy, 18 mpg City.  The 300 carries-over to 2010 with minimal changes.

Power and Handling of the 300

The 300 has a few engine choices available. 300C trim level, in particular, is an impressive vehicle thanks to its powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine. It's bracketed by two affordable V6-equipped models on one end and the high-performance 300C SRT8 on the other. Some of the 300's underlying mechanicals are derived from Mercedes-Benz technology, and it's a platform sibling to the Dodge Charger. For power, the base 300 relies on a weak 178-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Touring and Limited trims have a 3.5-liter, 250-hp V6 and a five-speed automatic. The top-shelf 300C and 300C SRT8 feature V8 engines with five-speed automatics. The 300C's V8 makes 359 hp, and the SRT8's boasts 425 hp. The SRT8 also features a stiffer suspension setup, more powerful brakes and a larger wheel-and-tire package. Most 300s are rear-drive, but Chrysler offers all-wheel-drive versions of the Touring, Limited and 300C. Anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control are optional on the LX trim, but standard on the Touring and Limited trims.

 

Design of Chrysler 300

Chrysler faced the difficult challenge of reinventing an icon when it went to the drawing board for the next 300. The new 300 possesses a shape similar to that of its predecessor, but looks more elegant. 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 features 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. Visibility has been 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. 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.

2010 Chrysler 300 Cabin

 Sticking with the clean theme of the exterior, the new cabin appears simple and refined. 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. A long 120-inch wheelbase shortens up the front and rear overhangs and opens up plenty of occupant space on the inside. 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.

Trim Levels of the 300

 The Chrysler 300 comes in LX, Touring, Limited, "C" (labeled the 300C) and SRT8 trim levels. Though budget-oriented consumers might be attracted to the LX model's low price, but the Touring or the Limited come with the type of standard features expected for this class of car. The 300C and SRT8 versions are the performance-oriented models. The main difference between the two is that the SRT8 version has been tuned and equipped for maximum performance, though the 300C Heritage package narrows the handling gap by equipping the 300C with a sport-tuned suspension and steering. For rear-drive Touring and 300C models, Chrysler also offers the W.P. Chrysler Executive Series. This model rides on a 6-inch-longer wheelbase and provides additional legroom for rear-seat passengers.

The Chrysler 300 LX ($24,595) is equipped with cloth upholstery, power driver's seat, cruise control, solar-control glass and 17-inch steel wheels with hub caps.
The 300 Touring ($28,590) has a five-speed automatic transmission with Chrysler's AutoStick manual-shift feature. The Touring comes with leather seating, 17-inch aluminum wheels and fog lamps.

The 300 Limited ($31,620) adds 18-inch chrome wheels, a slightly firmer Touring suspension, heated front seats, a power passenger seat, automatic headlamps, automatic climate control, power-adjustable pedals, an electronic vehicle information center, and one year of Sirius satellite radio.

The 300C ($35,395) has a power tilt/telescoping steering column, leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, remote starting, and rain-sensing wipers. SRT Design Group option ($1,495) for the 300C adds many of the SRT design cues, 20-inch wheels, and more significantly, engine tweaks and special exhaust that raise the output to 350 horsepower.
The SRT8 ($41,385) features a 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemi V8 with loads of performance tweaks, 20-inch wheels, and unique design features.

Summary

Thanks to its distinctive styling, roomy interior and powerful performance capabilities, the latest Chrysler 300 has become a popular choice in the large sedan segment. The Chrysler 300 stands out with bold, imposing styling reminiscent of an art deco look of years past. Its strong lines give off a sense of power and refined stature. The 300 works for families looking for an elegant vehicle as well as professional and executives looking for refined luxury, and with the SRT8 and 300c, performance levels expected with this class of vehicle with a V8. For another look, read Car and Driver's 2010 Chrysler 300 preview.



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