2015 Chrysler 300
New for 2015
The 300 gets a through refresh for 2015, with updated styling, a new interior, and a handful of new features and options.
Unapologetically American
Before CAFE standards and crossovers, American carmakers were known for churning out big sedans that were as stylish as they were brawny and powerful. The Chrysler 300 was always one of the best, and for 2015, it’s even better.
The updated 300 combines the style and power of its best predecessors with modern tech and convenience features to make an old-style American full-size sedan that knows a few new tricks.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2015 Chrysler 300 is available with two powertrain options that bring a modern update to the classic big American sedan formula.
Standard equipment is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that’s already been proven in several other Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) products. In the 300, it produces 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque. It’s matched with an eight-speed TorqueFlite automatic transmission, with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.
Chrysler says the V6 has best-in-class fuel economy and, indeed, with an EPA-rated 23 mpg combined (19 mpg city, 31 mpg highway)* with rear-wheel drive, and 21 mpg combined (18 mpg city, 27 mpg highway)* with all-wheel drive, it’s pretty impressive for a full-size sedan.
The debut of the original Chrysler 300C in 1955 also marked the beginning of the Chrysler Hemi V8 legend, and for 2015 an updated version of that classic muscle car engine is still available in the new 300. The 5.7-liter V8 produces 363 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque, which peoples the 300 from 0 to 60 mph in less than six seconds, Chrysler says.
The Hemi gets its own TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, and is only available with rear-wheel drive. Thanks to cylinder deactivation, the big V8 still manages a notable 19 mpg combined (16 mpg city, 25 mpg highway)*.
Superseding the 300 Limited, the 300S includes all of its standard features, but adds sport bucket seats, paddle shifters, Beats Audio 10-speaker sound system, and some unique exterior styling elements.
The penultimate model in the lineup is the 300C, which incorporates all of the applicable standard equipment from the 300 Limited and 300S, and adds perforated leather inserts for the front bucket seats, ventilated front seats, a driver’s side auto-dimming exterior mirror, power rear sunshade, power tilt/telescope steering column, a wood-trimmed steering wheel, and other features.
At the top of the lineup is the 300C Platinum, which features premium leather interior trim, a heated/cooled front console with cupholders, luxury Berber floor mats, power-adjustable pedals with memory, and some additional model-specific trim and features.
Exterior/Interior
The 2015 Chrysler 300 featured an updated version of the styling that appeared on the revived model that first launched back in 2005, incorporating some retro elements with a decidedly modern look. The grille is big and bold, the wheel arches are flared and muscular, and the roofline is low, giving the 300 a mean, hunkered-down look.
For 2015, the 300 also got a significant visual upgrade with some elements from the handsome-looking Chrysler 200, including the new winged Chrysler badge. Other features like chrome-trimmed LED taillights and daytime running lights. The 300S model also gets unique blacked-out trim, including “Hyper Black” alloy wheels.
The interior is just as bombastically styled. Different models get their own trim designs inspired by different cities, including Sausalito and La Jolla, California, Detroit, and Manhattan. Chrysler’s Connect infotainment system is also available, with what Chrysler calls a segment-leading 8.4-inch touchscreen.
That emphasis on style doesn’t mean Chrysler skimped on practicality, though. The 300 is still a full-size sedan, which means it boasts a roomy 106.3 cubic feet of passenger volume and 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space. A 60/40 split-folding rear bench makes room for longer items.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2015 Chrysler 300 includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, electronic roll mitigation, and a full array of airbags.
Chrysler says there are more than 80 available safety and security features, with some of the optional equipment including forward collision warning with automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, and a built-in data connection that can connect occupants with emergency services.
Bottom Line
The 2015 Chrysler 300 updates the classic American sedan for a new age. It's a thoroughly refined yet powerful sedan that shows you don't have to look across the ocean for a bona fide luxury.
Schedule your test drive by contacting or visiting us at Heritage CDJR Harrisburg, Owings Mills & Parkville.
*EPA estimates. Your mileage may vary depending on driving habits and conditions.
**Prices listed are Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the vehicle and options chosen by you. These prices do not include transportation, taxes, title, and other options, dealer installation costs, and other dealer charges.
Image: Chrysler