Introduction

Now in its 15th model year, the 2020 Chrysler 300 is among the last of its breed. Most automakers have dropped those big bodies-or even abandoned sedans entirely. 

Serving as a sophisticated counterpart to Dodge's slick Charger, with which it shares most mechanical components, the 300 ranks as an honest, authentic touring sedan. With its rear-drive configuration, Chrysler's four-door also is an alternative to today's front-wheel-drive models. All-wheel drive is available for those who need the added traction. 

Nothing notable has changed for the 2020 model year, except for the addition of a Red S Appearance package that features black and red detail work, along with 20-inch black wheels. A Radar Red interior is available, too. 

Five trim levels are offered: Touring, Touring L, 300S, 300 Limited, and 300C. Most 300 models employ a fuss-free 292-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6. (In 300S models, it's retuned to an even 300 hp). 

A traditional 5.7-liter V-8, generating 363 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of torque, is standard in the 300C and optional for the 300S. That well-proven engine performs precisely the task expected from this defiantly all-American sedan. 

Some active-safety systems are available, led by automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitors, but they cost extra. The NHTSA gave the Chrysler 300 a four-star rating overall and for frontal impact. The federal agency gave it a five-star score for side impact. The IIHS rated it 'Good'? in moderate overlap and side-impact tests, but only 'Marginal'? in the small overlap test. 

Lineup

Prices include $1,495 destination charge. 

The Touring version ($31,085 with RWD, $33,835 with AWD) comes with the 3.6-liter V-6, power driver's seat, cloth upholstery, keyless start, dual-zone climate control, and 17-inch wheels. Infotainment includes an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth with streaming audio. 

The Touring L ($34,610 with RWD, $37,360 with AWD) adds nappa leather seat trim, heated power front seats, and 18-inch alloy wheels. 

Upgrading to the Limited ($40,090 with RWD, $42,840 with AWD) adds heated rear seats, cooled front seats, a heated leather-wrapped wood steering wheel, power tilt/telescopic steering column, memory system

The sporty 300S ($38,190 with rear-drive, $40,940 with all-wheel drive) includes a sport suspension, all-season performance tires, paddle shifters, remote start, black interior accents, and black 19-inch or 20-inch (AWD) wheels. Chrysler's V-8 engine is optional. 

Topping the line, the 300C ($43,490) switches to a 5.7-liter V-8 with rear-wheel drive. Included are quilted leather seating surfaces, paddle shifters, leather/wood trim, heated rear seats, 276-watt six-speaker audio, and 20-inch wheels. 

Walkaround

Near-classic lines and big-body proportions highlight the Chrysler 300's understated yet posh demeanor. Despite its advanced age, the well-sculpted luxury sedan still manages to look fresh and elegant. Eventually, it might well be regarded as one of the company's true timeless models-though not quite on par with 300s of the distant past. 

Up front, the understated grille complements a bumper that shuns overdone sculpting. Mildly contoured, slab-sided flanks on top models are accented by 20-inch wheels that look right at home within their fender wells. Except for a few unnecessary trim elements on upper trim levels, the look is one to admire. 

Interior

While aging like the 300's body, its well-appointed cabin continues to coddle and comfort each occupant. Base Touring versions do tend to be darkly somber inside, marred by some rubbery elements. Well-equipped models boast high-quality materials, led by supple leather and open-pore wood. Higher-trim dashboards-notably in the 300C-even get stitched leather covering. 

Passenger space is ample up front, but lacking out back. Front seats provide comfort for typical, larger physiques. Knee and head room in the rear are surprisingly scant for a sedan of this size, though the bench itself is satisfactory. 

Chrysler's infotainment system, with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, is an easy one to use. Storage space also excels, starting with a trunk that holds an admirable 16.3 cubic feet of luggage. Door pockets are deep, cup holders are large, and a storage cubby sits ahead of the rotary gear selector. 

Driving Impression

Despite riding a comfort-tuned suspension, the 300 delivers competent rear-drive dynamics. Body roll is noticeable, but unobtrusive. 

Chrysler's V-6 isn't particularly powerful, but is wholly adequate for cruising. Acceleration is energetic enough for effective merging and passing. 

Selecting the big V-8 transforms the sedan's personality, almost reverting to the era of the 300's ancestry. Purists, in particular, aren't likely to be content with a V-6 when a V-8 could substitute. 

Chrysler's 8-speed automatic transmission deserves at least partial credit for the 300's strong, steady performance. In each powertrain, it impeccably blends crisp responses with smooth operation. 

Admirably competent on straight-line driving and highway cruising, the Chrysler 300 has its limitations on twists and turns. That's especially true with the base model's 17-inch wheels. Suspension tuning is sportier in the 300S sedan, but ride comfort suffers a bit. Thicker anti-roll bars are installed on V-8 models. All-wheel-drive versions deliver all-season confidence. 

Gas mileage is clearly nothing to boast about, affirming the Chrysler 300's age-related demerits. With V-6 power, the 300 is EPA-rated at 19 mpg city, 30 highway, 23 combined. All-wheel drive drops those estimates to 18/27/21 mpg. 

As expected, the V-8 consumes more gasoline, EPA rated at 16 mpg city, 25 highway, 19 combined. Mid-grade fuel is required by the V-8. 

Summary

Unabashedly American in style, the 2020 Chrysler 300 has a certain retro appeal. It's a solid sedan-though lacks the latest standard safety equipment and trails in gas mileage. The best value may be the Touring L. Even though a V-6 may satisfy most buyers, the 300's centerpiece is its throaty, traditional V-8. 

 

-by James M. Flammang, with driving impressions from The Car Connection.