Chrysler 300 spotlights a revamped exterior and interior for the 2015 model year. A one-week test drive underscored how much this four-door has upped the ride and handling ante. The new electronic transmission shifter dial on the center console is a nifty way to engage the standard 8- speed automatic transmission. While the Chrysler 300 has always had a composed ride, the 2015 sedan displays a more nimble attitude. That’s partly attributable to new cast-aluminum axles and an electric power steering system, replacing hydraulic-based power steering. The 300’s sport mode (part of the V8-powered 300S, 300C and the 300C Platinum trims) increases the driving dynamic intensity with sport-minded responsiveness.
The 300 is powered by either a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that produces 292 horsepower at 6350 rpm and 260 pounds-feet of torque at 4800 rpm, or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8 that releases 363 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 394 pounds-feet of torque at 4200 rpm. Driver and passengers travel inside a revised cabin. The interior modifications include a 7-inch digital driver information display (replacing the previous 3.5-inch digital cluster), open-pore wood accents, and a new 3-spoke steering wheel with larger-sized controls. Chrysler 300C Platinum with V8 engine collects estimated mpg of 16 city/25 highway and carries a MSRP of $42,395.