2021 Chrysler 300 – chrysler.com | Shop 2021 Chrysler 300 on Carsforsale.com
Full-size sedans are becoming hard to find these days, especially the classic American variety with V8 power and rear-wheel-drive. In fact, the 2021 Chrysler 300 is one of only two cars that meet that definition and the other is its corporate cousin, the Dodge Charger. If big, comfy cruisers are your speed, the good news is that the 300 still fits the bill.
For the 2021 model year, Chrysler deleted the pricier Limited and 300C trims leaving just three to choose from. Upper-level models pick up advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like blind spot monitoring and the Red “S” Appearance package equipment is now standard on the 300S trim. There are also additional packages available on Touring L and 300S trim that include such niceties as a panoramic sunroof and ventilated seating.
Still offers a powerful V8
Latest Uconnect software for all models
Red leather seating and 20″ wheels add spice
Spacious 5-seater with ample rear legroom
No active safety systems on Touring
American sedan that can still burn rubber
All 2021 Chrysler 300s come with a 3.6L Pentastar V6 making 292 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic routes power to the rear wheels, though AWD is an option on Touring and Touring L models. Top-spec 300S trim unlocks access to the famed 5.7L HEMI V8 mill with its 363 horses and 394 lb-ft of torque, enough for a sprint to 60 in under 6 seconds. Also equipped to the V8 is an 8-speed, but the 300S only comes in RWD with a sport-tuned suspension. That suspension is four-corner independent, including a 5-link rear configuration, to ensure confident handling. For added grins, the paddle shifters and Sport mode button on Chrysler 300S models encourage owners to hold on with two hands.
Fuel economy is so-so on the 2021 Chrysler 300, with RWD V6 models achieving EPA estimates of 19 mpg around town and 30 mpg on the highway. Those figures drop to 18 mpg and 27 mpg, respectively, when AWD is chosen. Stellantis notes the Multi-Displacement System in use on the HEMI V8 and its ability to deactivate four of the eight cylinders in situations, like highway cruising, that don’t necessitate max power. However, 16 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the open road won’t be setting any fuel efficiency records.
Amenities like the panoramic sunroof, dual-zone HVAC, and leather upholstery ensure a pleasant cabin experience for all occupants. Front seat passengers will appreciate the available heated and ventilated seating with power-adjustability of the lumbar support. Meanwhile, drivers are treated to the convenience of rain-sensing wipers and a heated steering wheel. The trunk holds a solid 16.3 cubic feet of your stuff and the rear seatbacks fold down in a 60/40 split for added storage; however, they do not lay completely flat.
Across the 2021 Chrysler 300 lineup, an 8.4” touchscreen is standard fare with Uconnect 4 connectivity, smartphone mirroring software for Apple and Android, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Dual USB ports and a digital vehicle information screen embedded in the gauge cluster are also included, but you’ll need at least a Touring L to access the premium, 9-speaker Alpine stereo with its trunk-mounted subwoofer and 506W amp. Navigation is also available with a 5-year subscription to the SiriusXM live traffic feed included on 300S trim with the HEMI.
A trio of ADAS are included on the Touring L and 300S models – blind spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and ParkSense – but add the SafetyTec package for all the active safety nets. It adds adaptive cruise control with lane departure warning and keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic high beam control. Passive safety features include airbags for frontal impact, front side, driver’s knee and a full-length head curtain.
The Touring trim is the entry point into a 2021 Chrysler 300 and comes fitted with 17” alloy wheels, a black-finished front grille, and body-colored door handles. The heated exterior mirrors come in handy on cold winter mornings as does keyless entry. Acoustic glass across the windshield and front windows ensures a serene cabin and dual-zone automatic climate controls keep it cozy. Upholstery is cloth in a black or linen color, the front seats are power-adjustable, and the rear bench split-folds in a 60/40 configuration. A leather-wrapped steering wheel adds a touch of lux while the auto-dim rearview mirror and illuminated front cup holders make nighttime driving easier.
Uconnect 4C is the latest infotainment system from Stellantis and comes loaded on all 2021 Chrysler 300s. It’s managed via the centrally mounted 8.4” touchscreen display and features Apple and Android smartphone integration, voice-activated Bluetooth, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot capable of running eight devices. For $1500, buyers can select the Sport Appearance package with its 20” “Black Noise” wheels, black exterior trim, and badging. An identically priced Chrome Appearance package accomplishes the same thing but with a shiny chromed look.
Like the base model, Touring L trim can be optioned with all-wheel-drive (AWD) for $2750, but only the V6 motor. Exterior upgrades include 18” rims and an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror with courtesy lamps and turn signals on both sides. Other conveniences include a compact spare tire and remote engine start capability. The interior is improved with a choice of black or linen Nappa leather trim, heated front seats, and a universal garage door opener. A handful of ADAS like rear cross-path detection and ParkSense, which can apply the brakes if the rear sonar deems it necessary, are added as well.
The $2395 SafetyTec Plus Group furthers the ADAS lineup with adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. AWD models come with sharp-looking 19” wheels and for $3495, the Popular Equipment Group adds a thumping Alpine audio system with 9-speakers, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and navigation with 5 years of live traffic data.
Only available in RWD, the sporty Chrysler 300S is also the only trim with an option to select the burly HEMI V8 engine. It comes with a $4000 premium and adds SRT fog lamps, front fascia, and side sills as well as a 160-mph speedometer versus the 140-mph version found on V6-powered models. Regardless of which motor you choose, the 300S sports black 20” alloys, a blacked-out exterior look, and upgraded sport seats inside. Those seats can be finished in black, gray, or the trim-exclusive Radar Red along with an “S” embroidered into the seatback.
There is a Comfort package that, for $2295, nets adaptive bi-xenon headlights, perforated leather seats with ventilation, heated second-row outboard cushions, and reverse-tilt-down side mirrors. The panoramic roof is a standalone $1995 option on the 300S and V6-powered models can add the SRT exterior styling with the $2195 S Model Appearance package.
Basic vehicle components on the 2021 Chrysler 300 are under warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain coverage stretches to a 5-year/60,000-mile period as does the 24/7 roadside assistance. Any body corrosion perforations are covered for 5 years with no mileage limit.
2021 Chrysler 300 – chrysler.com | Shop 2021 Chrysler 300 on Carsforsale.com
While the Chrysler 300 is getting long in the tooth, you have to appreciate it for what it is – a big, cushy, rear-wheel-drive sedan with room for five. There are enough features in the comfort, looks, tech, and safety departments to please most and the fact that you can order it with a big, honking, pushrod-activated V8 is icing on the cake.