Chrysler 300 used: Pure Americana

Chrysler’s beefy four-door delivers plenty of metal — and comforts — for the money. Then there’s the V8.

Chrysler 300.

NEW

AT a time when most car buyers are downsizing or going for more practical cars, the Chrysler 300 remains something of an anachronism.

The big, beefy American sedan is for the person, most likely a man, who wants lots of metal for the money.

It began in Australia as the 300 C but by 2012 that letter identified only the mid-spec model, the base car being just the 300 and the big, booming flagship with the SRT-8 badge.

There was no mistaking the four-door sedan’s origins. It was pure Americana, with bold lines, high waistline and in-your-face grille.

The cabin was awash with chrome and woodgrain, the seats were comfy, though not so supportive, yet those in the rear were a little cramped for room.

Propulsion came from a 3.6-litre V6, 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel and a thundering 6.4-litre V8. Most buyers opted for the V6s for the balance between performance and economy.

Only those who wanted an awesome growling V8 went for the SRT-8 — which, with its multi-displacement tech, switched off cylinders when they weren’t needed. This didn’t transform the beast into an economical tourer, though it helped, and that bellowing V8 could be reawakened with a stab of the pedal.

For transmissions, the V6 petrol got an eight-speed auto and the turbo diesel and the V8 were lumbered with a five-speed self-shifter.

On the road the rear-drive 300 rode and handled decently. It was not at all sporty but there was sufficient zip when needed.

The 300 doesn’t have an ANCAP crash rating but it has a full suite of contemporary safety gear, with dual front airbags, knee airbags, head and side airbags, emergency brake assistance, electronic brake force distribution, traction control, rollover stability and electronic stability control.

Chrysler 300 2012.

NOW

The majority of owners we surveyed were more than happy with their cars and some would happily buy another 300.

A few weren’t so keen — not that the problems they reported were terribly serious. Most felt let down when they went for repairs and the biggest frustration was the time taken to get back on the road.

Their experience suggests that anyone thinking of buying a 300 should do so with care. Before settling on a 300 have it thoroughly assessed by an experienced mechanic.

Electrical issues are among the regular complaints, so it’s worth checking the operation of all accessories.

Chrysler 300.

Failed alternators, problems with the airconditioning and harsh shifting from automatic transmissions are also on the list of occasional fails.

Check the service book to confirm a regular routine of maintenance, the key to a long and reliable life for any car.

We know of several 300 owners who have had their car’s suspension uprated to improve the handling, which can affect the ground clearance if it’s been lowered, or make the ride less comfortable if stiffer components have replaced the springs or shock absorbers.

OWNERS SAY

Bill Bolton

I bought my 2012 300 C with 40,000km on the clock. Three years later it has done 80,000km and it hasn’t had any problems to speak of. It’s smooth to drive and has plenty of power.

Brad Parker

I switched from an SRT to my current 300 C. The V8 was too thirsty, even with the cylinder shut-off, but the V6 is much better.

Brad Allport

I had a series of issues with my 2012 300 C, including the diesel particulate filter (twice), turbocharger, parking sensors, steering wheel, driver’s seat collapse, wheel bearings, Bluetooth module and front suspension. Worse was Chrysler’s response. They appeared reluctant to address the problems and were slow to react. I wouldn’t buy one again.

Aub Paverd

I’ve had my 2013 300 C V6 petrol since new and there have been no major problems with it to date. It’s quiet, comfortable, goes well and handles well for an everyday driver if you don’t expect it to be a sports car.

Sue Skermer

My 2014 300 C has exceeded my expectations. It’s comfortable, smooth, the airconditioning is amazing and it has all the features I want.

SMITHY SAYS ★★★½

Good to go if you like Americana but some can be troublesome.

AT A GLANCE

CHRYSLER 300 2012-15

PRICE NEW $43,000-$66,000

NOW 300 $19,000-$29,000; 300C $20,500-$39,500, SRT-8 $30,000-$50,000

SAFETY Not rated

ENGINE 3.6-litre V6, 210kW/340Nm; 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel, 176kW/550Nm; 6.4-litre V8, 347kW/631Nm

TRANSMISSION 8-speed auto, 5-speed auto; RWD

THIRST 7.1L-13.0L/100km

ALSO CONSIDER

HOLDEN CALAIS 2012-15

★★★½

Good all-rounder but without the American looks.

Pay $14,500-$36,000

BMW 535i 2012-15

★★★½

Great to drive, at a price.

Pay $39,000-$83,000

FORD G6E TURBO 2012-15

★★★½

Turbo engine elevates this prestige sedan into rare company.

Pay $16,500-$30,000