Chrysler 300 - It Still Has It...

Although Daimler has flipped the lights on its stint in the Chrysler building, they left behind a house warming gift for new Italian owner Fiat. As Fiat unpacked the goods to examine what was in the toy box, they found a jewel – the Mercedes E-Class-based rear-driven chassis under the Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, and Dodge Challenger. It’s little secret by now that Chrysler is working up a new 300 for 2011 that will hold its place at the top of Fort Pentastar, but there is still a lot to love about the current sedan.

Most of the changes for 2010 center on convenience and finesse. Keyless entry and starting are standard on the 300C, as is ParkSense® reversing assistance. Touring editions will wear chromed door handles, facia accents, and heated chrome mirrors. Side curtain airbags are available on all models.

Economy-minded drivers will choose the Touring edition and its 2.7-litre V6 engine to achieve 18/26-MPG city/highway. The Heritage Edition comes with Chrysler’s 5.7-litre HEMI V8 engine, with multi-displacement technology (shuts down four cylinders during cruising), that pumps out 360 horsepower and 389 lb.-ft. of torque while still achieving 25-MPG highway. To make things even more exciting, Heritage editions come stocked with Boston Acoustics 5.1 surround sound, 20-inch chrome wheels, performance steering, and upgraded shocks.

As winter sets in, it is time to face the realities of slick roadways. As in past years, Chrysler offers the 300 with AWD. The system features an active transfer case with front axle disconnect to provide all-weather traction when you need it, and only when you need it. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Brake Assist, traction control, and four-wheel anti-lock brakes also do their part to keep it between the ditches.

If you want a high-powered, yet surprisingly-efficient, rear-drive super sedan, you can check out expensive German models; Daimler will be happy to sell you a Mercedes. Or, you can buy the still stunning Chrysler 300 for a base price of $28,010. Even the Italians know a good German-American sausage when they see it. Competitors include the Ford Taurus, Nissan Maxima, and Honda Accord.