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06/07/2012 05:00 AM

The Car Coach: Chrysler 300

The 2012 Chrysler 300 C AWD stands out, with bold styling, strong lines and refined stature. Lauren Fix, the Car Coach, takes a closer look.

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Model - 2012 Chrysler 300C AWD
MPG - 18 city/ 27 hwy mpg.
Engine - 3.6L, V6, 292-horsepower
Transmissions: 8-spd automatic with E-Shifter.
Price - $39,960 as tested
Warranty: 3 year / 36,000 miles

The 2012 Chrysler 300C AWD offers SmartBeam headlights, rain-sensitive wipers, exterior chrome trim, standard Garmin navigation, heated rear seats, heated and cooled cup holders, wood trim, power adjustable pedals, 19” wheels, remote start and a ParkView rear back-up camera.

Our test 300C included 8-way power seats with adjustable lumbar and heated seats. It also included U-Connect Touch, an 8.4” screen with Beats Audio systems, 10 premium speakers with dual sub woofers and an amazing 552-watt amplifier. We tested the voice command system, with navigation enhanced by Sirius XM traffic link, and found it easy to use. The vehicle’s adaptive HID headlamps made it easy to see around corners, while blind spot detection with cross path detection blended with the ParkView rear backup camera to remove blind spots.

Our drive to New York City was comfortable but soft on cornering. Although this isn’t a sports car, the Chrysler 300C had a great ride. The Beat Sound System and U-Connect features were impressive and offered more than most cars in the segment. The seats were very comfortable and completely adjustable.

Competes with:
•Toyota Avalon
•Ford Taurus
•Chevrolet Impala
•Hyundai Genesis
•Buick LaCrosse

Likes:
•Comfortable ride
•Quiet interior
•Powerful engine
•Upscale interior materials
•High-quality Dr. Dre Beats sound and entertainment system
•Large U-Connect screen

Dislikes:
•Limited rear visibility
•Soft handling when cornering

The 2012 Chrysler 300C AWD is a stylish and powerful full-size sedan.