2008 Chrysler 300 Review

The 300 is a near-luxury full-size car that first debuted in 2005. It joins a long list of Chryslers that have been designated “300” since 1955. Adding a new level of luxury and elegance to the Chrysler lineup, the 300 has been a commercial and critical success. It was chosen as the “Best New Luxury Car” and Motor Trend’s “Car of the Year” in 2005.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chrysler 300 is one of Detroit’s most exciting products in years. Boldly styled, featuring an equally bold rear-wheel drivetrain, the 300 sets itself apart from the herd. While it lacks in standard safety features, just about every one you could ask for is optional, and its relatively low price more than makes up for it. It could be argued that the 300 is a poor man’s Mercedes, but we say that it’s just a great car.

What’s New For 2008:

The interior has been refurnished to include softer materials and improved controls. The exterior styling has also been refreshed. New options include surround sound, MyGIG multimedia system, adaptive cruise control, an iPod interface and upgraded front-mounted side airbags.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the 300 3.5 stars for overall mechanical quality. Problems with the 300 include inefficient air conditioners, failed remote starters, steering issues, and transmissions leaks. It’s been recalled five times for issues including brake fluid leaks, weak seatbelt anchors, and potential fires. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The 300 earned five stars in government frontal crash tests. In IIHS tests, it earned a “Good” score for frontal impacts, “Poor” in side tests, and “Marginal” in rear collisions. Anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control are standard on all but the LX. Side airbags are optional.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Bold styling
+ Rear-wheel drive
+ Affordable

Cons
– Lacking in standard safety features
– Mediocre V6 power
– Reliability concerns

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Buick Lucerne costs about $2,000 more, has a slightly larger engine with seven more hp, standard ABS, traction control and side airbags. The Cadillac CTS costs about $8,000 more, but has a larger engine with nearly 70 more hp, standard ABS, stability and traction control, and side airbags. However, it has less passenger space than the 300. The Toyota Avalon costs nearly $3,000 more, but has about 80 more hp, standard ABS and side airbags.

What Others Are Saying:

“The aggressive styling of the Chrysler 300 sets it apart from the competition, foreign and domestic.” – Forbes

“Amid all the current woes of the American automobile industry, the past year has seen a few standout new products, and the Chrysler 300 is the brightest of them all.” – Motor Trend

“Props to the 300 for reinvigorating American car design, finding tremendous popularity and more than paying its way. But it’s time for DCX to update this bad boy or build something that fulfills the merger’s original premise. Otherwise, the 300 is destined to become a textbook case of a synergistic failure to turn hype into reality.” – The Truth About Cars

Read more about the 2008 Chrysler 300 at the Chrysler manufacturer web site.