2020 Chrysler 300

Overview

Despite the fact that Chrysler's large sedan launched way back in 2005, constant updates and revisions have kept it both attractive and somewhat relevant, even as we push into the '20s. There are two versions of this large rear-drive four-door sedan. The 300S comes with a punchy V-6 that provides ample power (all-wheel drive is optional with the V-6), but a big American sedan such as this deserves a smooth V-8, and the 300C has one in the 363-hp V-8 that provides effortless and mellow power. Despite two strong engine choices, neither version of the 300 is a sports sedan.

What's New for 2020?

A Red S Appearance package arrives for 2020 and features unique badging, 20-inch Black Noise wheels, and an available Radar Red interior. New paint colors include Amethyst, Frostbite, and Canyon Sunset.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The Chrysler 300—along with its corporate sibling, the Dodge Charger—is unique in the large-car segment for its rear-wheel-drive layout and its available Hemi V-8 engine with 363 horsepower. All-wheel drive is optional, but only with the standard 3.6-liter 292-hp V-6 engine. In our testing, a rear-wheel-drive V-6–powered 300S hustled from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds; that's slow for this class but still reasonably sprightly. Our test of a rear-wheel-drive V-8–powered model back in 2015 netted a snappy 5.3-second result in the same test.

The 300 is not a bad-handling car for its size; the helm isn't the most talkative one in autodom, however. Body roll is well controlled, and the chassis is willing to play—as long as you don't get overly aggressive. The suspension on the 300S model is stiffer than on the rest of the lineup, and the 20-inch wheels that are standard on that trim also contribute to a ride that is overly rough, which seems out of step with the 300's near-luxury mission. If you're in the market for something comfy, avoid the 300S and instead opt for a base Limited or an upscale 300C.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

With the 3.6-liter V-6 under its hood, the 300 almost competes with similarly powered rivals in this segment but falls a bit short. Order up the Hemi 5.7-liter V-8, and this four-door is quite the gas consumer. Other rivals such as the Nissan Maxima are simply more efficient. Thankfully, the V-6 300 cruised through our highway fuel-economy test delivering exactly what the EPA estimated: 30 mpg. The Toyota Avalon fared much better, however, besting the Chrysler by 4 mpg.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The 300's entry-level offering is the Touring, which comes stripped down with cloth seats and few amenities. The fancier Limited model comes with far more features, including power-adjustable front seats with heat and adjustable lumbar support, dual-zone automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and seats, and illuminated front and rear cupholders. Heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, and a power-adjustable steering wheel are unique to the top-spec 300C. Throughout the lineup, the 300 utilizes soft-touch rubberized plastic with a leather-grain pattern to cover the dashboard and upper door panels. The texture feels nice but looks artificial. The interior design is aging, and not gracefully; rivals such as the Kia Cadenza and the Buick LaCrosse simply outclass the 300 in this area.

Almost every car in this segment managed six carry-on boxes inside the trunk, but the 300's large interior space allowed us to fit an additional 10 boxes with the rear seats folded. Those seats can be split in a 60/40 arrangement, but they don't fold completely flat.

Infotainment and Connectivity

We appreciate Chrysler's Uconnect infotainment system for its ease of use, intuitive menu layout, and snappy performance. The 300's standard 8.4-inch touchscreen display features this easygoing interface and sweetens the deal with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. SiriusXM satellite radio is also standard with a one-year trial period; navigation is optional.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

Spotty performance in its crash testing is cause for concern. Chrysler's driver-assistance gear is available for all but the base Touring model in the SafetyTec Plus package. Key safety features include:

• Available automated emergency braking
• Available adaptive cruise control
• Available lane-keeping assist

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Chrysler's warranty coverage for the 300 is nothing special, drawing the line at exactly the industry average. Some rivals offer similar packages, but standout winners here are the LaCrosse and the Cadenza. Both offer extended periods of protection, and the Buick offers two free maintenance visits.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance