2011 Chrysler 300

Redesigned for the first time in seven years the 2011 Chrysler 300 is now grown-up, and the sedan still delivers the quality interior and striking looks it has become known for.

For 2011, the full-size 300 sedan gets a complete makeover that softens some of the its hard edges on the outside and adds another layer of refinement to the interior.  The car retains its signature boxy appearance and adds larger fenders along with LED daytime running lights up front.  The front fascia is more contoured on this year’s model, which improves aerodynamics to save you money at the pump.  To improve visibility, the windshield has been pulled back, the pillars have gone on a diet, and the side windows are now larger.  Chrysler says that these changes improve outward visibility by 15 percent.

Under the hood, the 2011 300 features Chrysler’s new corporate engine called the Pentastar V-6.  This 292-horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission and represents a 114-horsepower improvement over last year’s base V-6.  Fuel economy ratings are class competitive – 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

If you need more power, then the HEMI V-8 carrying 2011 Chrysler 300C might be what you’re looking for – that model is covered separately on NewCars.com.

Moving inside, the 300’s interior has jumped up in class and gets the same stylistic changes as the exterior – sharp angles have been rounded slightly and the new cabin is inviting and luxurious.  Brushed metal pieces surround the vents and console controls and the refreshed instrument panel with its light-blue glow and three-dimensional appearance stands out in particular.  The standard features list includes dual-zone automatic climate control, a power driver’s seat, USB/iPod connectivity, and a centrally mounted 8.4-inch LCD display that contains audio and climate controls, as well as controls for the optional navigation system.  The options list on for the 2011 300 is on par with most luxury vehicles: wood trim, heated front seats and rear seats, a panoramic moonroof, and an Alpine stereo are all available.

Safety features include a full complement of airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), antilock brakes, traction control, and an electronic stability system all standard.  Additional advance safety technologies like adaptive front headlight, a blind spot warning system, and adaptive cruise control are available as options.

The 2011 Chrysler 300 full-size sedan blends style and a class above interior into an alluring package.