2018 Chrysler 300 Pros vs Cons
What’s New for 2018?
Updated exterior styling helps the 2018 Chrysler 300 to keep pace with its main rivals.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Chrysler 300 – The Pros
1. Fuel-Saving V6 Engine
Expect Chrysler’s Pentastar V6 engine to remain a popular choice. It churns out a fulfilling 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While the V6-powered 300 is not blindingly quick, it never feels sluggish during day-to-day driving situations. You will also like the extra fuel efficiency. An eight-speed automatic transmission helps the 300 to return an EPA-estimated 30 mpg on the highway.
2. Optional V8 Engine Feels Potent
When equipped with the available Hemi V8 engine, the 2018 Chrysler 300 becomes especially entertaining to drive. Chrysler tuned the engine to develop a healthy 363 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque. The additional power certainly helps improve acceleration. You can hit 60 mph in a brisk 5.5 seconds. Drivers also like the engine’s muscular sound.
3. Sporty 300S Trim
If you desire a sportier driving experience, don’t hesitate to check out the 300S trim. It comes equipped with a few extra performance goodies. A special air intake helps the 300S to develop a bit more power. However, the sedan’s sports-tuned suspension is the most important upgrade. It helps the big bruiser to handle the road with more poise.
4. Iconic Styling
No other sedan in the class looks like the 2018 Chrysler 300. Its muscular styling demands a great deal of attention on the road. The new 300 is perfect for the drivers who want to make a bold statement. All trims come standard with twin exhaust tips. Featuring a sleek body kit and blacked-out exterior trim, the 300S trim has an especially aggressive appearance.
5. Fun-to-Drive Sport Mode
A Sport mode comes standard on the 300S and the top-of-the-line 300C Platinum. When activated, it gives drivers a greater sense of control. Not only does the Sport mode trigger the transmission to shift gears quicker, but it also makes the steering system feel more responsive. At the touch of a button, the sedan immediately becomes more engaging to drive.
6. Very Comfortable Interior
In the eyes of some people, the 2018 Chrysler 300 is the most comfortable car in its class. Everyone in your family will enjoy the sedan’s spacious design. Tall passengers will love the 300’s 40 inches of rear-seat legroom. A deep trunk also enables your family to pack plenty of travel bags. This is the ideal sedan for taking extended road trips.
7. Great Uconnect Infotainment System
Users rank Chrysler’s standard Uconnect infotainment system among the best in the industry. The system’s 8.4-inch display screen quickly responds to the touch of your finger. Unlike some infotainment systems, the Uconnect interface is simple and straightforward. With the arrival of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, integrating your smartphone is now easier than ever.
8. Confidence-Inspiring AWD System
While rear-wheel drive comes standard, the optional AWD system proves to be a major benefit during bad weather. This is especially true for the drivers who must travel in snowy conditions. Luckily, the AWD system doesn’t cause a major drop in fuel economy. According to the EPA, you can expect to get around 18 mpg in the city and up to 27 mpg on the highway.
9. Extremely Luxurious 300C Platinum
To experience a truly luxurious ride, step up to the 300C Platinum. It feels just as extravagant as pricier sedans such as the BMW 5 Series. While music fans will like the 19-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, everyone can take advantage of the sedan’s remarkably smooth ride. The 300C Platinum is the only trim in the lineup that comes equipped with a touring-tuned suspension.
10. Safe Family Hauler
Stamped with a five-star safety rating, the 2018 Chrysler 300 is built to protect your family. Excellent crash-test scores prove that the 300 is a well-built automobile. You also have access to all of the latest high-tech driving aids. When tested in real-world conditions, the automatic emergency braking system performed very well.
Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Chrysler 300 – The Cons
1. High-Performance SRT Not Available
In the past, Chrysler offered a high-performance SRT version of the 300. Its specially tuned engine developed more than 450 horsepower. Chrysler has yet to bring back this exciting model. Drivers seeking the utmost performance will have to settle for the regular Hemi V8 engine. Keep in mind that the mechanically similar Dodge Charger now offers a 707-horsepower Hellcat engine.
2. No Hybrid Model Offered
Unlike large sedans such as the Toyota Avalon, the 2018 Chrysler 300 doesn’t have a hybrid model in its lineup. While the V6 300’s fuel economy is impressive, some drivers may desire even better overall gas mileage.
3. So-So Resale Value
If you plan to sell your 2018 Chrysler 300 in the future, don’t expect to get a big return on your investment. It simply can’t match the resale value of a premium nameplate.
How it Stacks Up to the Competition:
The Chrysler 300 faces off against the 2018 Toyota Avalon and the 2018 Chevrolet Impala. In contrast to these rival sedans, the Chrysler 300 offers all-wheel drive. This is a huge advantage for the drivers who live in snow-prone areas. From a performance standpoint, the Chrysler 300 delivers the strongest punch under the hood. Many drivers will be lured by the 300’s robust V8 engine.
Conclusion:
The 2018 Chrysler 300 shines brightly in all of the most important categories. It is safe, comfortable, and engaging to drive. Brawny exterior styling has also helped keep the 300 at the top of its segment. Although the 300 may not have the greatest resale value, it does prove to be a bargain in the land of full-size luxury cars.
• Why buy a 2017 Chrysler 300? w/ pros vs cons
• Why buy a 2017 Chrysler 300C? w/ pros vs cons
