• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

You are here: Home / New Car Reviews / Premium Value: Chrysler 300 Limited

Premium Value: Chrysler 300 Limited

May 29, 2015 by admin 11 Comments

You can get big V-8 power in the Chrysler 300, but a standard V-6 may meet your expectations for this full-bodied, traditional rear-wheel drive sedan. The current generation is based on its own architecture, forever severing its earlier Mercedes connection.

2015 Chrysler 300Hundreds of cars have come and gone in my press fleet rotation, but the Chrysler 300 Limited and its Dodge Charger SE sibling have both caught my attention. These two models — twins under the skin — appeal to different types of buyers, the former is for the premium set and the latter is for the sport-minded driver.

There are other important differences between these models too with the Charger also offering the 707-horsepower Hellcat and the Chrysler available in high-end Platinum trim, replete with metallic clear coat finish, polished aluminum wheels, Nappa leather-trimmed seats and a dual-pane power sunroof, among other features.

But the big appeal of this model, especially the Limited edition, is its value. Notably, this traditional, full-size rear-wheel drive premium sedan is priced from $31,395 or $33,385 as delivered. In fact, that price point is comparable to the lower end of the full-size sedan spectrum, bringing tremendous value to the segment.

2015 Chrysler 300

Recasting the Chrysler Brand

Before we go on, a look at the Chrysler marque is in order. In 2014, as part of Fiat Chrysler Automobile’s brand restructuring, Chrysler was repositioned as a mainstream North American brand. Whereas in the past it was classed to battle Buick and now defunct Mercury, Chrysler now takes on the likes of Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, Hyundai and Nissan.

Fortuitously, the Chrysler 300 hasn’t been “decontented” to the point where it has lost its prior elegance. Score one for the consumer.

Indeed, the 300’s visage remains elegant, reminding this writer of a Hyundai Genesis or even a BMW 5-Series. And here I go again — Hyundai is also a mainstream brand that just happens to have a pair of upscale models in the Genesis and Equus. Could it be that FCA had Hyundai in mind when recasting Chrysler?

2015 Chrysler 300

Standard Rear-Wheel Drive

Shoppers of full-size sedans these days have mostly front-wheel drive models such as the Nissan Maxima, Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala and the Hyundai Azera to consider. Of the five, only the Taurus is available in all-wheel drive. The Chrysler (as well as the Dodge) offer all-wheel drive. And these two models are outfitted with V-6 and V-8 engines, whereas its competitors offer V-6s and in some cases four-cylinder engines too.

Certainly, making a comparison between the FCA duo and its supposed competitors can be difficult. Both models are clearly in a league of their own.

Besides the standard Limited edition, Chrysler 300 shoppers have the 300S ($35,070), 300C ($38,070) and the 300C Platinum ($42,395) to choose from. And don’t let these prices dissuade you — Chrysler is the industry’s discount king, with the manufacturer willing to shave thousands of dollars off of the sticker price. To wit, the 2015 Chrysler 300 is discounted by $3,000 to $4,000 across the model line as of publication.

2015 Chrysler 300

From Daimler to Fiat

Introduced in 2005, the first generation of the modern Chrysler 300 was derived from Mercedes-Benz, raiding its earlier progenitor for parts used in the Mercedes E- and C-Class models. Originally, the Chrysler and its Dodge sibling offered a steering column, front seat frames, rear suspension architecture and a five-speed automatic transmission procured from parent Daimler.

However, in 2011 the second-generation Chrysler 300 made its debut, a model with similar dimensions as the first-generation sedan, but with nearly everything else changed. Indeed, the lone carryover was the five-speed Mercedes automatic transmission, but that has since been replaced by an eight-speed automatic transmission supplied by ZF. That also means the current chassis is new, providing a fresh departure from the previous model.

Every Chrysler 300 comes with a forceful front fascia marked by a bold grille with available chrome touches. Its overall persona loses the previous “gangsta” appearance, although its burly hood, strong shoulders and rectilinear figuration remain. Sculpted curves, elegant wheels and a sporty rear deck contribute to this sedan’s upscale countenance.


2015 Chrysler 300 Limited

View manufacturer details and pricing


2015 Chrysler 300

Inside, the cabin retains its premium look, although in the base models you will have to settle more for soft touch materials where leather might be found. Those materials cover the dashboard and door frames, but leather seats and door inlays, chrome trim and wood accents provide the necessary “lift” for this model.

At the same time, the instrument panel is at once sporty as it is ornamented with fashionable analog tachometer and speedometer displays. Blue focal point lighting presents a sophisticated touch here. The Chrysler’s center stack is uncluttered, punctuated by an 8-inch screen that features the company’s renowned UConnect infotainment system — one of the better and more user-friendly units of its kind. Below that are knobs and switches for the audio system and climate control.

Splitting the seats is a transmission knob and a smartphone holder. Covered storage at the base of the stack, two cup holders and a center armrest and storage compartment are also present. Further, all four doors have drink holders and storage compartments. To the rear are seat back storage chambers, climate control vents and a pair of USB ports. Additional USB ports, two 12-volt outlets, an auxiliary input connection and an SD slot are up front.

You can fit five inside, although you may not want to. For the drivetrain hump is pronounced, but there is room for an individual to occupy the middle seat position. Like each of the other passengers, that person does have the full benefit of a headrest.

2015 Chrysler 300

Chrysler 300: Six or Eight Cylinders

I can tell you that it has been a long time since I had a HEMI anything to drive. To be sure, nearly every Jeep, Chrysler and Dodge product that has come my way has been powered by one of the two Pentastar V-6 engines available in the US market. There was one Grand Cherokee quite some time back and one Ram 1500 that were HEMI-powered, but V-6s have ruled.

The 292-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 powering the Chrysler 300 Limited is no slouch (300-hp in the 300S). It comes paired with an 8-speed automatic and provides good performance around town as well as on the open road. That says a lot because it must tote two tons of 300 with it as well as the added payload and do so without plodding. Not once did I feel cheated.

What pleases not a few enthusiasts is the sedan’s rear-wheel drive architecture. It reminds me of the big Chryslers of the past, but wrapped in a more advanced and refined package. It is nice to drive a large sedan without torque steer weighing in, although modern competitor’s do much to overcome that problem through various torque mitigation technologies. But there is something about a sedan that offers a more even weight distribution (52/48) between the front and rear axles.

2015 Chrysler 300

Shoppers of all four editions can opt for the 363-horsepower HEMI, gaining an Autostick transmission with it. But the 300S with the smaller engine and a sport-tuned suspension along with the paddle shifters may help them achieve the driving satisfaction they crave.

Due to its sterling performance reputation, Chrysler 300 shoppers might think “HEMI” when shopping this large sedan. And for this reason they may sidestep this model, not knowing that the V-6 is a highly-capable and efficient engine in its own right.


2015 Chrysler 300 Limited

  • Sticker price from $31,395
  • Price as tested: $33,385
  • Seats 5 occupants
  • 3.6-liter 24-valve V-6 gasoline engine
  • 292 horsepower @ 6,350 rpm
  • 260 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,800 rpm
  • 3.78 inches bore by 3.27 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.2-to-1
  • 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 120.2 inches
  • Length: 198.6 inches
  • Width: 75 inches
  • Height: 58.4 inches
  • Passenger volume: 106.3 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 16.3 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: 1,000 pounds
  • EPA: 19 mpg city, 31 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 18.5 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 4,029 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Good — moderate overlap front, side, roof strength , head restraints & seats
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/100,000 miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Brampton, Ontario CANADA

2015 Chrysler 300 photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.


Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2015 CARS, 8-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, CHRYSLER 300, Dodge Charger, HEMI, PENTASTAR, rear-wheel drive, sedan, UCONNECT

About admin

Matt Keegan has maintained his love for cars ever since his father taught him kicking tires can be one way to uncover a problem with a vehicle’s suspension system. He since moved on to learn a few things about coefficient of drag, G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in some random weekly driver. Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources.

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. Pentastar Engine Family Passes 5 Million Milestone says:
    March 20, 2017 at 9:27 am

    […] See Also — Premium Value: Chrysler 300 Limited […]

    Log in to Reply
  2. Hyundai Azera: The Last Hurrah says:
    April 7, 2017 at 2:24 pm

    […] out of the market too. At least traditional rear-wheel drive models such as the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300 continue to find success in a dwindling […]

    Log in to Reply
  3. Hyundai Genesis Sedan: Grand Finale! says:
    April 8, 2017 at 7:35 am

    […] to say, a Hyundai Genesis without its many adornments might align closer to a Chrysler 300 or a Toyota Avalon, but the full-optioned amenities are what make this premium model extraordinary. […]

    Log in to Reply
  4. Drive Dissection: 2017 Nissan Maxima SR says:
    April 16, 2017 at 4:06 pm

    […] Toyota Avalon, Chevrolet Impala, Hyundai Azera, Buick LaCrosse, Ford Taurus, Kia Cadenza, and the Chrysler 300. Indeed, the Maxima is based on the same platform underpinning the midsize Altima — it is the […]

    Log in to Reply
  5. Buick LaCrosse: Where Luxury and Affordability Intersect says:
    May 7, 2017 at 10:18 am

    […] a vehicle that GM positions to take on the Lexus ES 350 as well as the Ford Taurus, Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300C, the Lincoln MKZ and the Hyundai Azera, just to name a […]

    Log in to Reply
  6. Hot SUV: 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    May 16, 2017 at 7:23 am

    […] want a performance Jeep and are looking for a happy compromise between the Dodge Challenger SRT and Chrysler 300, this model delivers with utility features […]

    Log in to Reply
  7. Skip the Lexus: 2013 Toyota Avalon XLE Touring — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    January 25, 2018 at 1:54 pm

    […] Chevrolet Impala and the Hyundai Azera. Rear-wheel drive models such as the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300C also compete. Well equipped versions of these sedans each range in price from $35-40,000, which […]

    Log in to Reply
  8. Toyota Avalon: Premium Value Sedan — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    August 28, 2019 at 11:40 am

    […] The Toyota Avalon is a large sedan, one that was overhauled for 2019. It’s based on the same platform as the popular Toyota Camry and competes in a shrinking segment with the Chevrolet Impala, Buick LaCrosse, and the Chrysler 300. […]

    Log in to Reply
  9. Rolling Classic: 2020 Dodge Charger — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    October 18, 2019 at 4:41 am

    […] platform, in a market where front-wheel drive dominants. The Charger, along with the Chrysler 300 sedan, allow Fiat Chrysler to maintain a stake in the full-size sedan market, even as Ford exits […]

    Log in to Reply
  10. Introducing the Toyota Avalon TRD — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    June 15, 2020 at 12:15 pm

    […] strong and its passing power more than up to the task. Outside of the Dodge Charger and Chrysler 300, it is one of the strongest engines in its class. Even with front-wheel drive, we found that this […]

    Log in to Reply
  11. The 14 Brands of Stellantis — Auto Trends Magazine says:
    January 18, 2021 at 10:13 am

    […] 2025? There is a strong chance the brand won’t survive as it’s down to two models – the 300 and Pacifica. The 300 is aged and isn’t likely to survive. The Pacifica minivan as a lasting […]

    Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival

Recent Comments

  • Buying Guide: 2020 Kia Sedona — Auto Trends Magazine on Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • Highlights of the 2020 Kia Sedona — Auto Trends Magazine on Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • Minivan Surprise: 2016 Kia Sedona SXL — Auto Trends Magazine on Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • Compact Crossover Extraordinaire: Mazda CX-5 — Auto Trends Magazine on The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • Compact Crossover Extraordinaire: Mazda CX-5 — Auto Trends Magazine on Compact, Luxury SUV: 2019 Volvo XC40

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Car Reviews
  • New Models
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications
  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
  • White Space Wonder: 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
May 2015
S M T W T F S
 12
3456789
10111213141516
17181920212223
24252627282930
31  
« Apr   Jun »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in