2005 Chrysler 300 Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Expert review
With Bentley styling, Mercedes-Benz engineering, and a Buick price, the new built-in-Canada 2005 Chrysler 300 is deserving of its instant hit status.
In the 1990s, Chrysler Corporation introduced the world to what it called “cab-forward” design. Think short hood, short trunk, a daringly long roofline arc, and plenty of room inside for people and cargo. The Chrysler brand sold multiple variations on this theme: 300M, Concorde, LHS, and New Yorker.
Now, the all-new Chrysler 300 replaces those cars with a rear-wheel or all-wheel drive full-size sedan equipped with a V6 or a V8 engine, on a platform shared with the Dodge Charger and the Dodge Magnum. Thanks to the DaimlerChrysler union, the new 300 uses plenty of Mercedes-Benz engineering. And thanks to creative license, this big Chrysler has more than a passing resemblance to a Bentley.
out of 10 expert review
Look & feel
Blunt-nosed, chop-topped, and sharply creased, the 2005 Chrysler 300 resembles a street-legal concept car. Styling recalls the Bentley Arnage, particularly in details such as the bold grille that flows up and into a swollen hood, flanked by round headlamp elements beneath clear glass. The front fenders share flavouring with the Bentley Continental GT, while dramatic wheel arch flares and intricate aluminum alloy wheel designs convey luxury.
Once you get inside the Chrysler 300, the company’s attempt at affordable luxury is less compelling. Simulated wood shift knob and steering wheel trim, electroluminescent gauges, and silver dashboard trim are all that distinguish the 300 from a run-of-the-mill family sedan. The font selection for the gauges is, however, undeniably classy.
Performance
Chrysler offers a 190-horsepower, 2.7-litre V6 engine in the 300 in the US that’s shared with the Dodge Magnum, but this engine is not available in Canada. That’s just as well, because the more powerful and refined 250-hp 3.5-litre V6 that’s the base engine in our market is a better choice. Get the upscale Chrysler 300C, and the car is equipped with a satisfying 340-hp 5.7-litre “Hemi” V8. A four-speed automatic transmission or available five-speed automatic with Autostick powers rear-wheel drive (RWD), unless you choose the all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrain.
During the course of the model year, Chrysler debuted the 300 SRT8. Think Mercedes AMG, but for a Chrysler. In addition to performance tuning, the SRT8 adds a powertrain that includes a 6.1-litre Hemi V8 with power specs of 425 hp, transforming the car into a genuine luxury sport sedan.
Fuel economy ranges from 12.2 to 16.5 litres per 100 kilometres in city driving and 8.8 to 10.9 on the highway, depending on engine and drivetrain selection.
It helps that Mercedes donates engineering elements from the previous-generation E-Class sedan, which helps the Chrysler 300 feel like a solid, secure, and supple German luxury car on the open road. The steering is a little light in terms of effort but supplies good feel and feedback, and the brakes are effective when it comes time to scrub some speed. With SRT8 trim, the big Chrysler comes with four-piston caliper Brembo brakes and goes around curves as well as it goes in a straight line.
Our choice would be either of the Hemi engines, but most people will be happy with the punchy 3.5-litre V6, which offers the best combination of acceleration and efficiency.
Form & function
Though it has a small greenhouse, the Chrysler 300 is big and roomy inside. Oversized front seats are more like thrones, and both the driver and front passenger sit up high with a good view out—unless you’re trying to see an overhead traffic light and you’ve pulled too close to the intersection.
Rear seat space is equally appealing, with plenty of headroom and legroom, but the 300’s 441-litre trunk measures on the small side for what is a full-size car. Interior storage is generous, with bins and trays just about anywhere they’ll fit. Clearly, Chrysler designers have been on long road trips before.
Multiple versions of the car are available: standard, Touring, Limited, 300C, and 300 SRT 8. Keyless entry is standard. As you move up the trim-level ladder, the Chrysler 300 offers leather seats, automatic climate control, a power sunroof, stereo and connectivity upgrades, safety enhancements, added conveniences, and more.
Technology
The Chrysler 300’s standard stereo includes a CD player and not much more. A navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free cell phone pairing, and a Boston Acoustics premium sound system are available, depending on the version of the car.
Additionally, Chrysler 300 buyers can get rain-sensing wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a programmable garage door opener, memory for the driver’s preferred settings, and a more sophisticated dual-zone climate control system.
Safety
Chrysler offers several safety features for the 300, but most are not included as standard equipment. For example, to get antilock brakes, traction control, and stability control on this car, Touring trim is a minimum requirement. Side-impact and side-curtain airbags are also extra-cost items.
You’re going to want those extra airbags, because according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), a 2005 Chrysler 300 without them earns a Poor rating for side-impact occupant protection. With them, the car improves, but not by much: It gets a Marginal rating.
By National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) standards, the 300 fares better. Tested with the side airbags, the car got a mix of 4-star and 5-star ratings for occupant protection.
Cost-effectiveness
With new car prices ranging from $29,995 for the base car to nearly $50,000 for the SRT8, Chrysler is able to simultaneously dip down into mainstream family sedan and reach up into luxury performance sedan territories with its new 300. That’s a neat trick, and either way, it represents value.
Note: Images show a US model.
What owners say
"Overall, owners of the 2005 Chrysler 300 have a strong appreciation for its luxurious feel, powerful performance, and comfortable ride. Many drivers highlighted the impressive acceleration and handling, especially with the 5.7L HEMI engine. However, some concerns were raised about fuel economy and occasional electrical issues. Despite these downsides, the car is frequently recommended for its value and style."
This is a beautiful car that still runs and handles well after 7 years and 135000 miles. Other than the flaws mentioned in my comments, this is an excellent automobile. I plan to keep it 'til the wheels fall off,
June 20, 2012Loved the style of the car the moment I saw it. Chrysler hasn't sat back on the style of their cars in the last few years. The acceleration with the V6 is good. The handling of this car is good and solid. Although with all season tires it's not so great in winter. I got stuck on the street when parking in early spring. Ice had formed along with loose snow and the car had no traction (RWD). I got it rocking but it kept sliding to the curb. The gas mileage has been good. Went on a holiday to British Columbia in May 2006, +30C. We drove though the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Our MPG was 35. We were surprised, as we had golf clubs and suit cases and munchies packed in the car. Also, we Didn't have the Air Conditioning on, had the windows open and enjoyed the fresh warm air. Maintenance has been reasonable for the amount of kilometers I drive each month. I will be purchasing winter tires soon though. I love driving this car. It's fun, comfortable and I feel safe when cruisin the highways. I recommend that people check the 300 out. The purchase price is reasonable for the quality of the car. I will be purchasing another 300.
September 28, 2008Car was very reliable and was a smooth ride and kept up. Liked the old body style as the new ones doesn't carry the same appeal and the beefy look. A lot more could be put in the v6 to make it much stronger but over all a good buy.
April 27, 2015What owners say
This is a beautiful car that still runs and handles well after 7 years and 135000 miles. Other than the flaws mentioned in my comments, this is an excellent automobile. I plan to keep it 'til the wheels fall off,
June 20, 2012Loved the style of the car the moment I saw it. Chrysler hasn't sat back on the style of their cars in the last few years. The acceleration with the V6 is good. The handling of this car is good and solid. Although with all season tires it's not so great in winter. I got stuck on the street when parking in early spring. Ice had formed along with loose snow and the car had no traction (RWD). I got it rocking but it kept sliding to the curb. The gas mileage has been good. Went on a holiday to British Columbia in May 2006, +30C. We drove though the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Our MPG was 35. We were surprised, as we had golf clubs and suit cases and munchies packed in the car. Also, we Didn't have the Air Conditioning on, had the windows open and enjoyed the fresh warm air. Maintenance has been reasonable for the amount of kilometers I drive each month. I will be purchasing winter tires soon though. I love driving this car. It's fun, comfortable and I feel safe when cruisin the highways. I recommend that people check the 300 out. The purchase price is reasonable for the quality of the car. I will be purchasing another 300.
September 28, 2008Car was very reliable and was a smooth ride and kept up. Liked the old body style as the new ones doesn't carry the same appeal and the beefy look. A lot more could be put in the v6 to make it much stronger but over all a good buy.
April 27, 2015The performance on the highway is exciting. It is difficult to obey the speed limits. On the highway using cruise control it only uses four cylinders for improved gas mileage. When new highway gas mileage was in the 24 -25 mpg using regular gas. A fine automobile!
July 24, 2012Performance- It has a 5.7 Liter modern HEMI engine, so it's no slouch...it's pretty quick with the stuff I have done to it... Build Quality- It has it's ups and downs, I just had to replace the door handle as it cracked when I tried to open it...no squeaks and rattles though... Appearance- Everyone says that the 300C looks best out of all of the HEMI's...I have a few things done to the outside also...the inside of it is completely stock, but it's cozy in there =] Cost of Ownership- My car only gets about 12 MPG in the city and like 18 on the highway...and I use synthetic oil, so I only change the oil every 6000 miles...otherwise, its good... Fun Factor- I think my car is pretty fun to drive, only because it's really loud...it really sounds like an old 300F...it's fun on the highway too =]
September 29, 2009It accelerates nice and its big on the inside. Its a big sedan, very similar in shape of the Charger. It turns pretty nice and the heated seats are great for colder weather
February 19, 2008I love Chrysler 300s. I love all of the features. Especially the hemi and the sunroof. This car is fully equipped and was a good value. The mufflers were missing(straight-piped) so I will need to add some.
May 27, 2021I had one I love this Chrysler 300 2005 they ride like you are in the air you feel no bumps it hold the road actually it own the road I never had a car that take on highway like the Chrysler do I mean I never had a car so comfortable to ride in an how it hold them deep curves you cant feel the curve or bumps Chrysler get 100 percent any day from me I love them I advise any one invest into Chrysler 300
November 29, 2020The Chrysler 300 has great take off, the breaks are excellent and handling is perfect. The 300 needed a couple of small repairs. It hardly ever squeaks and there's no unidentified noises. The Chrysler 300 is a large car but beautiful. The exterior is a cream color, but it comes in: Black, Gray, Silver, Gold, Dark Red, Dark Blue, Cream and White. This vehicle is very fun to drive! I would suggest buying one!
August 11, 2009no wonder it won motor trends car of the year award. thsi car is near flawless. smooth ride, great performance in the v6, great sound system, mediocre on gas, looks like a rolls royce. i couldnt ask for more in a car
August 8, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $34,295 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $37,045 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $55,000 | Seating 5 |
Engine 6.4L 485 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $41,135 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $30,995 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $29,905 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.5L 250 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 21 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $38,595 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain RWD |
Base MSRP $41,345 | Seating 5 |
Engine 3.6L 292 hp V6 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 22 | Drivetrain AWD |
Base MSRP $48,450 | Seating 5 |
Engine 6.4L 470 hp V8 | Cargo Capacity 15.6 cu ft |
Combined MPG 18 | Drivetrain RWD |
