Chrysler 300 CRD 2013 Review

We pay attention to the newest and brightest stars in the automotive world, asking the questions you want answered. But there's only one question that really needs to be answered - would you buy it?

What it is?

The diesel version of Chrysler's big sedan catches the eye without you knowing it. There is nothing that distinguishes a diesel model from a gasoline one that does not cause rejection.

How many?

With a starting price of $48,000, the diesel will cost you $5000 more than the entry-level petrol V6, but it's worth it because not only can you eat your cake, you can eat it too.

What are competitors?

Nothing special, not with the same presence on the road. Possibly a Caprice, or maybe a Falcon or Commodore, but neither is available with a diesel engine.

What's under the hood?

VM Motori's 3.0-litre turbodiesel delivers an unparalleled combination of outstanding performance and economy. It produces an outstanding 176 kW of power and 550 Nm of torque at a low 1800 rpm. Equipped with a common rail fuel system with direct fuel injection, a variable geometry turbocharger and an integrated particulate filter to help reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, the engine is designed to meet stringent EURO 5 emission standards.

How are you?

Impressive. It's hard to believe that you can drive such a big machine with the kind of performance that still returns those amazing fuel economy numbers, especially at this price point. A German bahnstormer will cost you twice as much.

Is it economical?

Combined fuel consumption is 7.1 l/100 km with 18-inch wheels and 7.2 l/100 km with 20-inch wheels. We got a 7.4 after almost 600km, which shows it's supremely affordable.

Is it green?

Middle of the road. Receives 3.5 out of 5 stars in Govt's Green Vehicle Guide (by comparison, Prius gets 5). CO185 emissions are 191 or 2 g/km depending on whether 18" or 20" wheels are fitted.

How safe is it?

Not rated by ANCAP. But rebranded as a Lancia, it scored full Eurotest scores, with seven airbags including a driver's knee airbag, and features such as electronic stability control and electronic pedestrian protection, as well as front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera.

It's comfortable?

Large and fairly quiet. Entry-level models feature cloth upholstery, a leather steering wheel and shifter, power driver and passenger front seats with XNUMX-way lumbar support, and one-touch front power windows.

What is it like to drive a car?

Too bad it doesn't have an 8-speed automatic like the V6. But then again, with that much torque, a five-speed is more than enough. 0-100 km/h takes 7.8 seconds, with strong low-to-mid range response, as you'd expect.

Is this value for money?

Great piece of car for the money. In addition, adaptive front lighting and bi-xenon auto-leveling HID headlights with daytime running lights provide superior visibility day and night.

Would we buy one?

We would be tempted. Not sure about the style, but if you like being different, this is for you.

Chrysler 300 CRD Diesel

Cost: from $ 48,000

Guarantee: 3 years/100,000 km

Safety Rating: n /

Spare: space saving

Engine: 3.0-litre 6-cylinder diesel, 176 kW/550 Nm

Transmission: 5-speed automatic; rear drive

Body: 5066 m (D); 1905m (w); 1488 m (h)

The weight: 2042kg

Thirst: 7.1 l / 100 km, 185 g / km