Road Test - Chrysler 300C

Author: Ian Strachan

The Chrysler 300C is an impressive car in more ways than one. This big, distinguished looking car is a real head turner, with its Bentley-like refined appearance, but it's also a pleasure to drive.

Despite its expensive looks, it comes with a very reasonable price tag. The 3.0 CRD variant which I drove comes on the road at just £27,495. Even the flagship model powered by an awesome 6.1 litre V8 is just £40,995.

That's not far off half the price you'd expect to pay if this car had a Mercedes badge, but there's a lot of Mercedes engineering in it. Shared components include suspension and steering systems, as well as some electrics.

The car is powered by a meaty V6 diesel unit, and it's a cracker. It's one of the quietest, most refined and responsive diesel engines available anywhere. And it's no slouch either. Combining power and torque it can propel you from 0-60 mph in about seven and a half seconds.

Married to a five speed automatic gearbox this unit is capable of a shade under 35 miles to the gallon in mixed driving, despite this being a big car.

Ride and handling is as smooth as any car of this size I have driven, with a suspension set up which absorbs bumps well and contributes to overall handling.

The interior of the 300C is comfortable and uncomplicated, with easy to find controls. Instruments are classically styled and easy to read. Park brake is of the Mercedes-style foot operated variety with a hand release.

Specification levels are high and include heated leather front seats with eight way power adjustment and programmable memory for the drivers seat, dual zone automatic temperature control with infra-red sensing and air filtration, leather wrapped electrically adjustable steering wheel with memory, parking sensors, sound system with iPod connection, automatic Xenon headlamps with high pressure washers and rain sensing windscreen wipers.

Luggage space is cavernous, with a huge boot, as well as lots of legroom inside.

The only downside to the 300C is a reputation for fast-falling second hand values, but the car is exceptionally good value to start with. You're getting a big package for your money, and if you look in the mirror you'll catch some admitting looks.

Road test by Ian Strachan Communications Ltd

Ian Strachan is a motoring and business writer and PR consultant. He can be contacted on 01543 490932 or 07949 202596 or via email: ian@strachan13.freeserve.co.uk