2008 Chrysler 300-Series Review

The Chrysler 300 is offered in five different models with four different engines underhood for 2008. The base LX comes with a 178-horsepower, 2.7L V6 engine, while the Touring and Limited models get a 250-horsepower, 3.5L V6. The top-of-the-range 300C come with a 5.7L Hemi V8 engine making 340 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, while the exclusive 300C SRT8 comes with a 425-horsepower, 6.1L version of the Hemi.

V6 models have a four-speed automatic transmission while the V8 comes with a five-speed automatic. An all-wheel drive system is available on Touring, Limited, and 300C models.

The 300C can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, yet it achieves an EPA highway fuel economy estimate of 23 mpg, thanks to the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which turns off four of the cylinders when cruising or coasting, so as to improve fuel economy by as much as 20 percent.

The base LX model comes with a rather short equipment list relative to most other mid-size and large sedans. Anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control are optional, but standard on the other models.

The 300 offers an extensive list of available entertainment technology. Sirius satellite TV is offered on the 300 for the first time, Sirius satellite radio is also available, and the available DVD navigation system now has a larger 6.5-inch screen. Then there's MyGig, an entertainment system that includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive for storing music and pictures, a built-in Gracenote music database and voice-memo recorder, and a UConnect Bluetooth hands-free phone interface.

A new Luxury Group package brings to the Limited a sunroof, a 276-watt Boston Acoustics sound system with six speakers, the MyGig entertainment system, California Walnut wood trim, remote start, LED interior illumination, SmartBeam headlamps, and rain-sensing wipers. The Luxury Equipment Group II is available on the 300C and brings several top luxury features including adaptive cruise control, puddle lamps, an auto-dimming passenger-side mirror, heated back seats, and California Walnut trim.

For those who want even more performance, there's the more exclusive SRT8 model, which includes a 425-horsepower, 6.1L version of the Hemi V8, a specially calibrated AutoStick five-speed automatic, a lowered sport suspension, and performance-tuned ESP stability control. Big 20-inch wheels, a functional hood scoop for added cooling, Brembo vented brakes, and larger dual chromed exhaust tips are also included. Inside, the SRT8 includes performance suede seat inserts, LED interior lighting, and an electronic vehicle information center.
For 2008, Chrysler's 300 sedans have been refreshed with a number of minor changes inside and out. Front and rear fascias are redesigned, and new taillamps and a new rear decklid give the back a different look. Inside, the instrument panel has been redesigned, the cruise-control lever has been relocated, and soft-touch surfaces are now used on the arm rests and door panels. LED interior lighting is now available for cup holders and map pockets.

Several new interior color combinations are offered, faux-wood trim now comes on the Limited, and the cloth upholstery is new. Adaptive cruise control is now optional on the 300C, and power adjustable pedals are standard on the Limited. Front seat-mounted supplemental air bags have been added on some models; side-curtain bags covering front and rear rows remain standard.

Sound systems have also been reconfigured. A new Boston Acoustics eight-speaker surround sound system with subwoofer is available on the 300C, the MyGig multimedia entertainment system with navigation is available across the line, and a rear-seat entertainment system with Sirius satellite TV and a one-year subscription is optional on Touring, Limited, and 300C models. Remote start is another new option.

Three new colors join the line for 2008: Clearwater Blue Pearl, Dark Titanium Metallic Clear Coat, and Light Sandstone Metallic Clear Coat replace Marine Blue Pearl, Linen Gold, and Silver Steel Metallic. see less