2017 Chrysler 300

America's big, bold sedan

The Chrysler 300 is not your average luxury sedan. Whereas models from the old continent are defined by their understated styling, the Chrysler 300 is big, imposing, and unapologetically bold. It's also remarkably comfortable, and its standard rear-wheel drive setup provides the level of handling purists will enjoy, while its available all-wheel drive can help those who regularly navigate through more slippery conditions. 

For 2017, the 300 now boasts the all-new fourth-generation Uconnect® system as standard on all trims. Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ are also new and provide smartphone users access to various applications, including Google Maps/Apple maps, via the 8.4-inch Uconnect® touchscreen or steering wheel controls.

Performance

The 2017 Chrysler 300 is available with two powertrain options that bring a modern update to the classic big American sedan formula.

Standard equipment is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that’s already been proven in several other Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) products. In the 300, it produces 300 horsepower. A class-exclusive eight-speed TorqueFlite™ automatic transmission is standard on every model.

While rear-wheel drive comes standard, all Chrysler 300 models are available with the segment's most technologically advanced all-wheel drive system, which includes a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system to help improve real-world fuel economy. This advanced AWD system seamlessly transitions between RWD and AWD with no driver intervention necessary. 

V6 models earn an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 31 mpg highway) with rear-wheel drive, and 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway) with all-wheel drive, which is rather impressive for a full-size sedan.*

 

 

For drivers who crave even more performance, there is the legendary 5.7-liter V8 HEMI® engine with four-cylinder mode Fuel Saver Technology. This engine produces a staggering 363 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque; can rocket from zero to 60 miles per hour in less than six seconds; and returns an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined (16 city/25 highway).*

Features 

The 2017 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan available in 300 Limited, 300S, 300C, and 300C Platinum trim levels. MSRP starts at $32,340.**

Value is not something often associated with luxury sedans, but the 2017 Chrysler 300 bucks that trend thanks to a robust list of equipment that should have rivals from Europe and Japan feeling inadequate. 

Standard features found on 300 Limited models include heated mirrors, automatic headlights, and LED daytime running lights and taillights. For your convenience, the 300 Limited also boasts a rearview camera, keyless entry/ignition, cruise control, leather upholstery, and dual-zone climate control. 

The comforts don't stop there, either. The 300 Limited sports a large array of technology features. First up is the all-new fourth-generation Uconnect® system with 8.4-inch touchscreen interface. Smart device users will feel instantly at home using this new system, which recognized multi-touch gestures with pinch, tap, and swipe capability. Siri® Eyes Free; Bluetooth® phone and audio connectivity; voice controls; a six-speaker sound system; and Wi-Fi hotspot access, which allows you to wirelessly connect your smart devices and access the Internet, are also standard. 

Following the 300 Limited, the 300S kicks things up a gear by virtue of its 20-inch "hyper black" alloy wheels with performance tires (19s with AWD), a sport-tuned suspension (RWD only), steering calibration for sportier handling, a dual sport exhaust, remote start, unique black-out styling, LED fog lights, sport front bucket seats, and a 10-speaker BeatsAudio™ sound system.

It's worth noting that the 300S can also be had with an optional and exclusive performance suspension that features stiffer springs, performance-tuned steering and bushings, larger sway bars (V8 only), and upgraded tires.

The penultimate model in the lineup is the 300C, which incorporates all of the applicable standard equipment from the 300 Limited and 300S and adds perforated leather inserts for the front bucket seats, six-speaker Alpine® audio system, ventilated front seats, a driver’s side auto-dimming exterior mirror, power rear sunshade, power tilt/telescope steering column, a wood-trimmed steering wheel, and other features.

At the top of the lineup is the 300C Platinum, which features a premium leather interior trim, a heated/cooled front console with cupholders, luxury floor mats, power-adjustable pedals with memory, and some additional model-specific trim and features, including a 19-speaker harman/kardon® sound system.

Design

As one would imagine, the 2017 Chrysler 300 features styling befitting a model of its stature and attitude. The grille is big and bold, the wheel arches are flared and muscular, and the roofline is low, giving the 300 a mean, hunkered-down look.

 

 

Last year, the 300 got a significant visual upgrade with some elements from the handsome-looking Chrysler 200, including the new winged Chrysler badge. This year the visual highlights remain the same, which will suit fans of its bold and aggressive look just fine.

The interior is just as bombastically styled. Different models get their own trim designs inspired by different cities, including Sausalito and La Jolla, Detroit, and Manhattan. The furnishings are also top-shelf, with the rich finishes and extensive use of soft-touch materials. We're also big fans of the space-saving rotary gear selector, which adds an additional touch of class and style.

That emphasis on style doesn’t mean Chrysler skimped on practicality, though. The 300 is still a full-size sedan, which means it boasts a roomy 106.3 cubic feet of passenger volume and 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space. A 60/40 split-folding rear bench makes room for longer items.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Chrysler 300 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, electronic roll mitigation, and a full array of airbags.

Building on its “Top Safety Pick” credentials, the 2017 Chrysler 300 offers a 360-degree perspective thanks to the SafetyTec Plus Group’s Full-speed Forward Collision Warning – Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control-Plus with Full Stop, Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path detection, and more.

Verdict

The 2017 Chrysler 300 is the perfect choice for drivers that prefer their vehicle deliver all the refinement, power, and poise expected of a luxury model while making an unmistakable statement. It delivers on the Chrysler brand's promise of style, sophistication, world-class quality and technology, and it deserves to be at the top of your shopping list. 

For more information, or to schedule a test drive, contact us online or visit MotorWorld | MileOne Autogroup at 150 MotorWorld Drive, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.

*EPA estimated fuel economy. Your mileage will vary depending on driving habits and conditions. Use for comparison purposes only

**MSRP excludes destination, taxes, title and registration fees. Starting at price refers to the base model, optional equipment not included. A more expensive model may be shown. Pricing and offers may change at any time without notification. 

Image Credit: Chrysler