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Chrysler 300C

Chrysler 300C CRD

The C version had the looks, but expensive running costs. The diesel version might be the best compromise

By Diether Rodatz

August 2005

There's no doubt that the Chrysler 300C has eye-opening looks. The trouble is, with a massive 5.7-litre V8, the same can be said of its fuel consumption, too. Even with restrained driving, you'll be lucky to get more than 20mpg out of it.

 
However, the trump card is economy, which at nearly 35mpg betters the V8 model by close to 15mpg and the petrol V6 by 10mpg
While that might not matter so much in the US, it certainly does in Europe. So it will come as no surprise that the diesel version is expected to be the best-seller when launched next year. But does an oil-burner fit with the image of such a brawny American car? To find out, Auto Express tried the new 300C CRD. The saloon is based on the platform of the previous-generation Mercedes E-Class, and Chrysler's engineers have again raided Merc's parts bin for the oil-burning motor. The technology is bang up-to-date, though, in the form of a 3.0-litre V6 direct-injection turbodiesel.

Already powering heavyweights such as the new M-Class, E-Class and Jeep's Grand Cherokee, the 215bhp unit has no trouble coping with the 300C's 1,928kg kerbweight.

With a massive 510Nm of torque, the Chrysler achieves 0-60mph in only 7.6 seconds and accelerates on to 143mph. Predictably, in-gear response is very strong, and overtaking is simply a matter of prodding the throttle.

Hooked up to a beefy five-speed auto, progress is hushed, while the engine is quiet and refined. However, the trump card is economy, which at nearly 35mpg betters the V8 model by close to 15mpg and the petrol V6 by 10mpg. You can certainly feel every millimetre of the 300C's length, but it does offer a smooth ride. What's more, with an estimated price of around ΂£25,000, the CRD is superb value for money.

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FIRST OPINION

    With decent economy and strong acceleration, the CRD is the pick of the 300C range. The refined Mercedes engine may not be as sporty as its rivals and the cabin might not be as well built, but the stand-out styling, high equipment levels and relatively low price make the 300C CRD worthy of buyers looking for something different.
 

AT A GLANCE

    The right-hand-drive 300C goes on sale in the UK next March. In addition to the CRD, there will be a 246bhp 3.5-litre V6 and a range-topping 335bhp 5.7-litre V8. An estate will arrive later.
    Engine: 3.0-litre V6, 215bhp
    0-60mph: 7.6 seconds
    Price: £25,000 (est)
     
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