Edmunds.com Review -

There's currently no category within the Edmunds.com Most Wanted awards for "best returning-to-glory car." But if there were, the Chrysler 300 would certainly be a strong candidate to win. A proud and prestigious vehicle during the 1950s, the 300 fell into anonymity during the '60s and then pretty much disappeared from the automotive landscape for more than 30 years. Only with the current model has Chrysler revived the accolades and respect that once surrounded this proud nameplate.

Thanks to its distinctive styling, roomy interior and powerful performance capabilities, the latest Chrysler 300 has become a popular choice in the large sedan segment. The 300C trim level, in particular, is an impressive vehicle thanks to its powerful 5.7-liter V8 engine. It's bracketed by two affordable V6-equipped models on one end and the high-performance 300C SRT8 on the other. According to our editors, nearly all 300 models should serve consumers well.

The 300's styling is unmistakably American. The large chrome grille, double-lens headlights, high beltline, bulging fenders and big wheels give it a strong presence on the road. A long 120-inch wheelbase shortens up the front and rear overhangs and opens up plenty of occupant space on the inside. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions, and the 300 offers more legroom than most of its competitors. Its overall interior design has been described as simple but elegant. The dash area effectively combines sporty, semi-retro and luxury motifs.

The Chrysler 300 comes in LX, Touring, Limited, "C" (labeled the 300C) and SRT8 trim levels. Though budget-oriented consumers might be attracted to the LX model's low price, we suggest stepping up to either the Touring or the Limited, as these trim levels come with the type of standard features expected for this class of car. The 300C and SRT8 versions are the performance-oriented models. The main difference between the two is that the SRT8 version has been tuned and equipped for maximum performance, though the 300C Heritage package narrows the handling gap by equipping the 300C with a sport-tuned suspension and steering. For rear-drive Touring and 300C models, Chrysler also offers the W.P. Chrysler Executive Series. This model rides on a 6-inch-longer wheelbase and provides additional legroom for rear-seat passengers.

For power, the base 300 relies on a weak 178-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 connected to a four-speed automatic transmission. Touring and Limited trims have a 3.5-liter, 250-hp V6 and a five-speed automatic. The top-shelf 300C and 300C SRT8 feature V8 engines with five-speed automatics. The 300C's V8 makes 359 hp, and the SRT8's boasts 425 hp. The SRT8 also features a stiffer suspension setup, more powerful brakes and a larger wheel-and-tire package. Most 300s are rear-drive, but Chrysler offers all-wheel-drive versions of the Touring, Limited and 300C.

In Edmunds.com reviews of the Chrysler 300, the car has fared quite well. Our editors have commented favorably on its masculine good looks, powerful V8 engines, long list of safety features and value for the dollar.

                        2011 Chrysler 300 showcased before Detroit debut, Automobile magazine, Dec. 20

                        o Chrysler vowed to revamp its entire lineup with new sheet metal and amenable interiors for 2011, and the new 300 abides by that pledge, Automobile magazine said. The car's entire front clip has been redesigned to incorporate a new grille, slick projector-style headlamps with LED parking lights, and additional chrome accents, the magazine said. A shapelier deck lid and bumper fascia help spruce up the 300's rear, while restyled taillights are illuminated with LEDs, Automobile said. Underneath the skin, engineers have incorporated a number of revisions; arguably, the biggest news lies with powertrain; the 5.7-liter V-8 remains an option, but the company's new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 replaces two previous six-cylinder offerings, the article said. Look for the 2011 300 to make its first public appearance at the 2011 Detroit auto show in early January, the magazine said.

                        2011 Chrysler 300 revamped, Edmunds Inside Line, Dec. 21

                        o Chrysler has extensively reworked its flagship sedan, the 2011 Chrysler 300, which makes its public debut next month at the 2011 Detroit Auto Show and begins reaching U.S. dealers in the first quarter, Edmunds Inside Line said. The new 300 gets a new front face, including redesigned grille, "key slot" headlamps and LED daytime running lamps, Edmunds said. From the rear, the makeover is more subtle, with a modest lip spoiler on the deck lid, revamped LED taillamps and oval dual exhaust tips, the article said. Chrysler also has upgraded the materials in the cabin, which features a redesigned instrument cluster, sapphire-blue LED ambient lighting, wood trim and optional heated and ventilated Napa leather seats, the article said.