Used 2020 Chrysler 300

To look at it, you’d never know the 2020 Chrysler 300 sedan has been around since 2005. Chrysler stylists have worked hard with updates and subtle design changes to keep this full-size American 4-door on top of its game. However, if you’re looking for the latest in technology, interior design and fuel economy, the Toyota Avalon, Chevy Impala and even the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are all superior to the 300. The same can be said for their resale values.

But the 300 still offers something none of its rivals can match: A V8 engine. V6 models can be equipped with all-wheel drive and despite its age, the 300’s Uconnect infotainment system is still one of the better systems at this price point.

Chrysler’s 2020 300 sedan can be summed up with a few choice words: “comfortable, quiet and powerful.” The 300 offers plenty of gusto, even from its standard V6 engine. The available 363-horsepower Hemi V8 delivers heart-stopping acceleration, its 8-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission is smooth and precise, and a Sport mode that tweaks the transmission’s shift points is standard on the 300S and 300C.

Straight-line performance is outstanding, but on models other than the 300S and 300C, cornering is not the big and heavy Chrysler’s most admirable quality — although it can easily outmaneuver a Toyota Avalon or Chevy Impala. The additional thrust and exhaust rumble of the V8 are certainly desirable, but the best combination of performance, efficiency and price is the V6-powered 300S with a light smattering of optional equipment. And if you live in the land of snow and ice, all-wheel drive (AWD) is a worthwhile expense.

If you’re looking for a roomy interior, you’ll find it in the 2020 Chrysler 300. The cabin is huge, with ample room for 6-footers both front and rear. A true full-size sedan, the 300’s 16-cubic-foot trunk can swallow all manner of gear, luggage and groceries. Most of the materials on the dash and seats look and feel premium, but some hard plastics on the doors and lower dash are definitely not what one expects from a car at this price.

Plenty of high-tech upgrades and some great audio options keep the 300 in the race, although the 8.4-inch touch screen is also starting to feel a bit small compared to the competition. Little touches like an analog clock, rotary gear selector and 7-inch instrument cluster display give the feeling of driving a more expensive luxury sedan.

With its hard lines, small greenhouse and wide stance, Chrysler’s 2020 300 defines the look of American luxury sedans. It manages to be full country club, very CEO and a little bit gangster all at the same time. It’s a distinctive design and it continues to exude an aggressive elegance as it struts down the road.

The more sporting 300S model has blacked-out elements. Chrysler offers Sport Appearance and Chrome Appearance packages on the entry-level 300 Touring model, both packages featuring 20-inch wheels. The top Hemi-powered 300C model gets Platinum Chrome on its grille and trim.

ALL-WHEEL DRIVE
While a few more family sedans now offer all-wheel drive, none in the 300’s size and price range offer this option. Not the Toyota Avalon. Not the Chevrolet Impala. A $2,500 option, this advanced AWD system works well in snow and on slippery surfaces, as well as improves the 300’s cornering abilities.

HEMI V8 Power
A V8 engine is as American as baseball, hot dogs and apple pie. Only you won’t find one in a Chevy Impala. Only the 2020 Chrysler 300 (and its twin, the Dodge Charger) offers the option of a Hemi V8, with all its rumble, horsepower and torque. Off-the-line acceleration is exhilarating, and an EPA-estimated 25-mpg highway isn’t too shabby, either.

The base 300 Touring model includes dual-zone climate control, 8-way-power driver’s seat, keyless entry, dash-mounted analog clock, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a split-folding rear seat and 17-inch aluminum wheels. Entertainment is provided by a 6-speaker AM/FM/satellite radio with an 8-inch touch screen, USB input and Bluetooth streaming.

Higher trims come with a rearview camera, panoramic sunroof, leather interior, heated and cooled front seats, a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel, navigation and power-operated rear sunshade. In addition to the 8.4-inch touchscreen display with Chrysler’s easy-to-use Uconnect information and entertainment system, all models come with a snazzy 7-inch information display between the analog tachometer and speedometer.

Several packages and individual options are available on the 2020 Chrysler 300. Among them are upgraded audio systems including a 19-speaker Harman Kardon unit, and optional safety and driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. Traction-enhancing all-wheel drive (AWD) is available across trims on V6 models in place of the standard rear-wheel drive (RWD).

In addition to interior features and more aggressive exterior design cues, the sportier 300S and 300C models come with paddle shifters and performance-tuned suspension. The Limited trim is loaded with quilted Nappa leather seats, hand-sanded wood accents and 20-inch wheels.

Standard on the 2020 Chrysler 300 is the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. This engine develops 292 horsepower in the Touring and Limited trims, and 300 horsepower in the 300S. With ample torque, the V6 is more than capable of quickly moving the 300 across intersections or when merging or passing. Fuel-economy figures are in line with other V6’s in this class, although models equipped with all-wheel drive see a slight decrease in overall EPA estimates.

Optional on the 300S and standard on the mighty 300C is Chrysler’s 5.7-liter Hemi V8. Making 363 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, the Hemi V8 delivers performance no hybrid or turbocharged 4-cylinder can match. It’s smooth, powerful and always willing. Regardless of engine choice, an 8-speed automatic does shifting duty and offers a manual-shift mode for those who like to join in the fun. Premium fuel is recommended for the V8, but both engines will run just fine on regular unleaded.

3.6-liter V6 (Touring, 300S, Limited)
292 horsepower @ 6,350 rpm
300 horsepower @ 6,350 rpm (300S)
260 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm
264 lb-ft of torque @ 4,800 rpm (300S)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/30 mpg (RWD), 18/27 mpg (AWD)

5.7-liter V8 (300S, 300C)
363 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm
394 lb-ft of torque @ 4,200 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/25 mpg