2008 Chrysler 300

A Chrysler To Be Seen In

The bold styling and rear-wheel-drive performance of the Chrysler 300 set it apart from the competition.

The Chrysler 300 returned the brand to its rear-wheel-drive heritage after two decades of front-wheel-drive sedans. It also makes a visual splash with upscale styling that is equal parts aggressive and elegant.

The 300 lineup has proliferated since it was introduced. In addition to the base, Touring and Limited versions, there is the luxury-minded Chrysler 300C and the super-sporty 300C SRT8. The 300C can be distinguished from other models by its distinct headlamp design, while the SRT8 adds a spoiler and other body cladding.

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The entry-level 300 comes with a competent but unremarkable 2.7-liter V6 engine mated to a four-speed automatic transmission. Meanwhile, the Touring and Limited models come with a more satisfying 3.5-liter V6, which will be sufficient for most buyers. The 300C and 300C SRT8 come with even stronger (and thirstier) V8 engines.

The Chrysler 300C comes with a 340-hp Hemi V8. The term "Hemi" denotes the hemispherical shape of the engine's combustion chambers, and is a throwback to classic Chrysler engines from the 1960s. The engine delivers strong power with respectable fuel economy, thanks to a Multi-Displacement System that deactivates half the cylinders under low and moderate throttle.

If the 300C doesn’t make your heart race quickly enough, the SRT8 version burns the pavement with a 6.1-liter Hemi V8. It stays planted via a number of suspension and braking system modifications. It will sprint from 0-60 mph in around 5 seconds.

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The 3.5-liter V6 engine and all the V8s come with a five-speed automatic transmission that affords smoother shifts and improved performance and fuel economy over the four-speed version, along with manual shift capability.

The Touring, Limited, and 300C models are available with all-wheel drive and include traction control and antilock brakes with brake assist. Electronic stability control and traction control are standard on all but the base model, where they are available as options.

The 300 delivers a smooth though not overly soft ride with crisp cornering abilities and none of the skittishness that some rear-wheel-drive cars exhibit, especially on slick roads. Models equipped with the V6 are more agile because there’s less weight sitting over the front wheels. Although modern snow tires can turn any car into a blizzard beater, if you live in cold climates, consider buying an all-whee-drive model.

• Chrysler 300 Vehicle Summary

The Chrysler 300’s roomy interior comes well-equipped with standard amenities. Side-impact airbags for front occupants and curtain airbags for both rows are optional, along with a host of comfort and convenience items.

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The more luxurious Chrysler 300C comes fully equipped with the usual assortment of amenities, including deluxe features like a premium Boston Acoustics audio system, power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, and rain-sensing wipers.

A full complement of optional features also help keep the line current. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, which can maintain a set speed and distance from the traffic ahead, and SmartBeam headlamps, which pivot to illuminate the road around curves at night. Other recent updates include optional heated rear seats, an automatic oil-change alert, an auto-dimming passenger-side outside mirror as well as side mirrors that feature puddle lamps and integrated turn signals.