Reviews
2018 Chrysler 300 Driving Impressions
Mature yet athletic in nature, the 300 demonstrates that big cars can handle well, without lacking ride comfort.. Confident and stable, the 300 transmits road conditions to the driver better than most front-drive sedans, though body roll and gentle heaving motions are inevitable.
Base models feel softer and more pliant than their upper-trim counterparts. Sport mode, on 300S and 300C, firms up ride and handling. Twisting roads make it clear that the 300 is a big car, but Chrysler’s electric power steering lightens the effort needed.
For a sedan of this size, the V6 engine delivers wholly sufficient, satisfying power. A V6 version tackles entry ramps without strain, and passing is accomplished with assured briskness.
When in action, the V6 emits a mild rumble. Exhaust sound is more exuberant from the V8, whose power bursts strongly but smoothly into play, accelerating to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Paddle shifters for the 8-speed automatic add to the muscular pleasure. Sport mode modifies shift speeds for quicker responses.
The 300S gets a retuned suspension with stiffer springs and firmer bushings, along with quicker steering and 20-inch wheels. Especially with the V8 option, the 300S is fun to drive as well as more tautly composed than its mates.
Fuel economy is satisfying with V6 power, but the V8 is less appealing. With the V6, the 2018 Chrysler 300 is EPA-rated at a reasonably thrifty 19/30 mpg City/Highway, or 23 mpg Combined. All-wheel drive lowers the estimate to 18/27/21 mpg. The V8-powered Chrysler 300C (or 300S) is EPA-rated at a less-compelling 16/25 mpg City/Highway, or 19 mpg Combined.
