With the elimination of its mid-size 200 last year, Chrysler is left with a single sedan model in the full-size 300. Despite a redesign in 2011, the fundamentals of this imposing-looking car have changed little since its introduction way back in 2005, a trend that continues as the 300 gets a handful of running changes for its move into 2018.
Chrysler has rejigged the trim levels so that the 300's hierarchy better lines up with that of the Pacifica minivan, and as such, the lineup now consists of Touring, Touring-L, 300S, Limited and 300C variants.
The top two trims get some new optional features, including Harman Kardon sound systems, power rear window sunshade, deep mocha leather interior and a dual-pane sunroof. The Limited can also be had with 20-inch wheels, and the 300C is now standard with the 5.7L Hemi V8.
New technology includes a SiriusXM Guardian suite of connectivity apps that can summon roadside assistance, and let the owner lock, unlock and start their vehicles remotely. Carried over from last year is an active safety option group available in 300S, Limited and 300C models that includes forward collision warning with active braking, adaptive cruise control with stop, lane departure warning and lane keep assist.
As before, the 300 starts out with a 3.6L V6 engine that feeds 292 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels, while the 5.7L Hemi V8 (standard in the 300C and optional in the 300S) makes 363 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque. Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the V6 can be optioned with all-wheel drive.
The 300 is a nicely-appointed big car, but Chrysler won't let you combine heated front seats with the base model's cloth upholstery. That's too bad, because this is an otherwise roomy and nicely appointed car that includes features like a gauge cluster with a seven-inch customizable display, dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Uconnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration, 12-way power driver's seat with lumbar, cloth upholstery and passive keyless entry. Outside, there are 17-inch wheels, halogen headlights and LED taillights.
You have to move up to the 300S to get heated front seats, a trim that also brings a backup camera, remote engine start, 10-speaker "Beats" stereo, Nappa leather-faced seating, 12-way power front passenger seat and black 20-inch wheels.
The Limited includes polished 20-inch wheels, auto-dimming driver's side mirror, power tilt-and-telescopic steering column, LED reading lights, Nappa seating with perforated inserts, ventilated front seats and heated rear seats.
Finally, the 300C gets the Hemi motor, trim-specific 20-inch polished aluminum wheels, adaptive xenon headlights with automatic levelling, heated and cooled console cupholders, black grille with platinum surround, luxury steering wheel with shift paddles, sport driving mode, and quilted Nappa seats.
Chrysler's fuel consumption estimates for the 300 are 12.4/7.8 with the V6 engine and RWD and 12.8/8.7 with AWD, and 14.7/9.4 with the V8/RWD combo.
