Source:caranddriver.com

2020 Chrysler 300: The Dark Knight of Muscle Sedans?

The 2020 Chrysler 300 came into the US around September 3rd, 2019. But before its launch, many people speculated that the previous year’s models would be the last of their kind due to the profitable yet slumping sales figure. Moreover, there were rumors that the manufacturer might focus more on the twin-turbocharged Dodge Charger than the 300s. Fortunately, the 2020 models were released with many upgrades in comparison to the previous year’s trims, if you want to read more about all trims visit this site.

Presently, the manufacturer is selling five trims of the 2020 Chrysler 300. These include Touring, Touring L, 300S, Limited and 300C. The MSRP range of these vehicles is between $31,085 and $43,490. The various trims of these models are available with all-wheel-drive (AWD) or rear-wheel-drive (RWD) functionality except for the 300C. Unfortunately, performance enthusiasts have once more been disappointed because the manufacturer didn’t launch the SRT trim. The last of these were manufactured before 2015, and since then, the demand for these trims has been rising in the North American market.

Source:caranddriver.com

Instead, as per the source, the manufacturer is producing the current year’s 300 with Pentastar V6 3.6-liter and V8 5.7-liter HEMI engines. Yes, these engines have returned to the variant after a long time and pair up with 8-speed automatic transmissions of TorqueFlite. Moreover, the AWD function of these vehicles is considered very advanced in its class and helps to boost fuel economy.

The AWD becomes RWD when it is not required by disconnecting the active transfer case to the front axle. The V6 engine of the Touring, Touring L and Limited variants generate 292 hp and 260 lb-ft torque. Similarly, the AWD V8 produces 363 hp. Moreover, the AWD is only optional in the standard base V6 variant. As per sources, the V6 RWD 300S trim can accelerate from 0 to 60-mph in 6.3 seconds, and back in 2015, the V8 RWD trim showcased a 5.3-second acceleration.

The 2020 Chrysler 300 competes with Kia Cadenza, Toyota Avalon, Nissan Maxima and Dodge Charger. It comes with a new Red S package that provides a distinct badge, 20″ Black Noise wheels, and an optional Red Radar interior. Besides this, the vehicle comes with new color options, namely Amethyst, Frostbite, and Canyon Sunset. Our favorite option besides the V8 is the V6 300S with the additional SafetyTec Package. This package provides many safety, security, and assistance upgrades. The V8 trims are also popular, but customers seem disappointed due to the fuel-economy.

Source:pomocochryslerjeepdodge.com

RWD Crysler 300S and Dodge Chargers lie under the large car segment. The 300 trims provide an average handling experience for drivers. The structure of these cars is hard enough to reduce injuries during a rollover or collision. It has received a four-star safety rating under the NHTSA rollover risk section. The report also showcases that this car has a rollover risk of merely 11.30 percent with no dynamic tip, which is impeccable in comparison to some of its competitors. The NHTSA reportIIHS, although not fully-prepared, showcases a five-star rating under the overall side-star rating section. Similarly, the IIHS report of this car shows the highest scores under the moderate front overlap, side, roof strength, head restraints & seat section of the crashworthiness section. The IIHS scores also depict superior crash avoidance and mitigation with the optional system under the vehicle-to-vehicle front-crash prevention section.

Also, the body structure of the 300S trim is stiffer in comparison to the other trims of the model. However, drivers may experience a rough riding experience due to the 20″ wheels in the 300S trim, which is not the same in other trims. Therefore, if you are looking to buy one of its variants, then you should either opt for the standard Limited or 300C trims.

As mentioned earlier, the vehicle lags in the fuel-economy section with both the V6 and V8 engines in comparison to the Nissan Maxima and Toyota Avalon. The EPA estimated that the V6 engines generate 30 mpg on highways, and our sources agree with the same. In comparison, the Toyota Avalon EPA score is 34 mpg, and the Nissan Maxima showcase a better fuel-economy versus 300 trims.

The best features of the standard 300 Touring trims may range from seats to some amenities; however, the Limited trim escalates luxury within this large sedan. Limited trims incorporate features like adjustable lumbar support and heated front seats, two-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel, and seats wrapped with leather, illuminated cupholders in the rear and the front, etc.

The highest 300C variant also offers heated & ventilated seats for the driver and front passenger along with a heated and power-adjustable steering wheel, and heated rear seats. Leather grain-patterned soft rubberish plastic covers the upper door panels and dashboard for all trims. Owners and reviewers might even feel that the texture seems artificial but nice. The Kia Cadenza and Buick LaCrosse have far better interior design than the 300 trims.

Source:chrysler.com

The 60 by 40 foldable rear seat adjustments provide baggage space to accommodate ten average-sized bags. Unfortunately, they don’t fold 100 percent. Furthermore, the vehicle is equipped with Chrysler’s Uconnect infotainment system that includes an 8.4″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and SiriusXM satellite radio as standard. Satellite Radio carries out a one-year subscription plan. In addition to these features, owners can add optional navigation features to their systems. Optionally, potential buyers can add features like adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, lane-keep assist, etc.

Source:chrysler.com

Lastly, the base 2020 Chrysler 300 trim comes with a three-year or 36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year or 50,000-mile powertrain warranty. The manufacturer provides no complimentary scheduled maintenance with these trims. Buick LaCrosse and Kia Cadenza win over these trims under the warranty and maintenance section. Buick provides two complimentary scheduled maintenance. Meanwhile, both LaCrosse and Cadenza provide more extensive periods of warranty options.

Conclusively, there are two ways to look at this sedan. Primarily, you might consider it a large five-seater American vehicle competent with Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Audi. The second option would be to see it as a large sedan lagging a few essentials but competitive with the hybrid and electric vehicles of today’s generation.