Skip advert
Advertisement

Chrysler 300C vs Jaguar XF

Chrysler is targeting company buyers with its reborn 300C executive saloon. Is it a better choice than the Jaguar XF?

Chrysler 300C vs Jaguar XF

Buyers of large saloon cars aren’t exactly spoiled for choice these days, with the latest incarnations of the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series occupying the top rungs of company car wishlists.

So what if you want to take the road less travelled? The original Chrysler 300C carved out a niche for itself thanks mainly to its looks, personality and competitive price tag. But since the Fiat group took over Chrysler in 2011, the US brand has started exploring new classes with small hatchbacks like the Delta and Ypsilon.

Advertisement - Article continues below

The company hasn’t forgotten its roots, though: there’s now an all-new version of its traditional imposing four-door saloon. This new 300C promises greater luxury and higher quality along with more sophisticated handling.

To provide the ultimate test, we’ve lined it up against one of the most charismatic alternatives money can buy – the recently revised Jaguar XF 3.0-litre diesel.

Both models are bristling with aggression and character, plus they come equipped with powerful V6 engines and plenty of standard kit – but which offers the better overall executive car package?

Verdict

This class has undergone a major revolution during the two years that Chrysler has been away. Heavier CO2 taxation has made four-cylinder diesels the best sellers – so much so that powerful V6 models like these are increasingly rare. That’s a shame, as both of these cars deliver surging performance and hushed refinement, which is perfectly suited to their luxurious image.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

A4 Avant

2025 Audi

A4 Avant

15,879 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £26,193
View A4 Avant
Corsa

2023 Vauxhall

Corsa

9,054 milesManualPetrol1.2L

Cash £13,427
View Corsa
Corsa

2019 Vauxhall

Corsa

18,424 milesManualPetrol1.4L

Cash £9,676
View Corsa
i4

2024 BMW

i4

32,805 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £33,212
View i4

The Chrysler is very different to the car it replaces, with a noticeably stiffer chassis and better cabin quality that almost brings it in line with the standards of its main rivals. However, despite improvements to the suspension and sound deadening, the car’s engine and gearbox are well past their best – especially compared with their more modern equivalents in the hi-tech Jaguar. The 300C feels big and unwieldy on UK roads and the heavy steering makes it hard work at low speed. Anyone who buys one is guaranteed exclusivity, though, as Chrysler only plans to sell around 450 this year.

In the end, though, it was comfortably outclassed by the incredibly desirable XF, which looks and feels well worth the extra outlay. It matches the 300C for comfort before turning into an exhilarating sports saloon on more demanding roads. The Diesel S is the pick of the XF range and a worthy winner.

Winner: Jaguar XF ★★★★

This British bruiser feels back at the top of its game after its facelift, and only the hot XFR delivers the same combination of effortless performance and supple refinement as the Diesel S tested here. The classy and surprisingly practical interior proves that the XF has substance in spades to match its gorgeous styling. It remains a truly compelling alternative to more mainstream German rivals.

2nd: Chrysler 300C ★★★

We doubt anyone drawn to the Chrysler’s unique personality will be disappointed at the wheel. The 300C is now a far more rounded performer than before – but still falls short of the toughest European standards. Keen pricing and luxury kit aren’t enough to counter poor residuals and steep running costs.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

MG MG4

MG MG4

RRP £26,995Avg. savings £7,541 off RRP*Used from £11,000
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £16,100
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £24,625Avg. savings £2,795 off RRP*Used from £11,800
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,710 off RRP*Used from £15,440
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment
Xiaomi YU7 - front cornering

New Xiaomi YU7 2025 review: a world-beating new EV to worry the establishment

BMW or Mercedes would do anything to keep the new Xiaomi YU7 from sale in the UK and Europe, and this is why
Road tests
14 Jul 2025
The Electric Car Grant is here: Government's new £3,750 EV discount in detail
Auto Express creative director Darren Wilson charging the Lexus RZ

The Electric Car Grant is here: Government's new £3,750 EV discount in detail

The government has set out its plan to help reduce the cost of affordable EVs by introducing a new £3,750 Electric Car Grant for new EVs sold under £3…
News
16 Jul 2025
New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range
MG IM5 - Goodwood front

New MG IM5 has the Tesla Model 3 beaten on price and range

The all-electric IM5 brings new technology and design to the MG line-up
News
10 Jul 2025