2011 Chrysler 300C

The 2011 Chrysler 300C is the more powerful version of the 300 full-size sedan and for this year gets the same makeover that its smaller counterpart received with a new style and a new interior.

On the outside, the 2011 300C looks different from last year’s model yet similar all at the same time.  The 300’s trademark angles are still there, but the edges have been softened and the front fascia redesigned to be less boxy and more aerodynamic, which helps the 300C’s gas mileage figures.  Also new are LED daytime running lights which add a touch of refinement to the nose of the car.  Visibility was a complaint consumers had about the outgoing 300C, so for this year’s car the windshield has been raked back, the rear windows made larger, and the pillars thinned which improves outward visibility by 15-percent according to Chrysler.

Under the hood, the 300C gets a larger engine than its counterpart: a 363-horsepower, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 which is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.  The V-8 represents an increase of 71-horsepower over the V-6 in the standard 300, but where you really feel the larger engine kick in is the additional torque (394 pounds-feet opposed to 260) which helps you put the power down.

Fuel efficiency is aided by the 300C’s aerodynamic changes as well as the HEMI engine’s fuel saving cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down cylinders when they are not needed.  Ratings check in at 15-16 mpg in the city and 23-25 mpg on the highway depending upon your choice of two-wheel- or all-wheel-drive.

Inside, the 300C’s interior gets a luxurious refresh and is packed with features usually only found on cars a class above.  The new look is accented by brushed metal highlights that add a sense of refinement to the cabin as well as a new three-dimensional instrument panel that is particularly attractive.  The standard features list is long and includes dual-zone automatic climate control, USB/iPod connectivity, powered, heated, and cooled front seats, and an 8.4-inch LCD screen that houses audio, climate, and navigation controls (navigation is also standard). 

Safety is also a standard feature on the 2011 300C, with a full complement of airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), antilock brakes, traction control, and an electronic stability system coming on every model.  Further safety technologies like adaptive headlights, blind sport warning system, and adaptive cruise control are optional.

The 2011 Chrysler 300C delivers HEMI power with all the trappings of a luxury car for a non-premium price.