Chrysler 300 Outpaces Ford and GM Rivals in Consumer Reports Test
Consumer Reports ranked the Chrysler 300 above its direct competitors from Ford and General Motors, citing improvements in handling, comfort and fuel economy after the 2011 redesign.
Consumer Reports has rated the Chrysler 300 above its main domestic rivals from Ford and General Motors, following the car's 2011 redesign and mechanical updates. The latest test, published in August 2012, saw the 300 score 83 points, placing it ahead of large saloon competitors from the other Detroit manufacturers and behind only the Hyundai Genesis among the cars assessed.
Consumer Reports' assessment of the 300
The Chrysler 300 tested by Consumer Reports featured the 3.6-litre V6 engine paired with the new eight-speed automatic transmission. According to the organisation, this combination contributed to a marked improvement in fuel economy, with the 300 achieving 22 miles per gallon in their evaluation. Handling, comfort and ease of use were also highlighted as strong points, with the car described as steady and secure during avoidance manoeuvres on the test track.
Despite its strong showing in the road test, the Chrysler 300 was not awarded a 'Recommended' status by Consumer Reports. The organisation cited a lack of sufficient reliability data from owners, which is required before a model can receive such an endorsement. This position reflects Consumer Reports' policy of basing recommendations on both test performance and owner reliability surveys.
Comparison with rivals and market impact
The 300's score placed it above large saloons from Ford and General Motors, although the exact scores for those rivals were not detailed in the report. The only car to outscore the Chrysler 300 was the Hyundai Genesis, which achieved 92 points. The new rating for the 300 follows improved results for other Chrysler Group models, including the Chrysler 200, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango, in recent Consumer Reports tests. For more on the 200's mixed fortunes, see/us-these-are-consumer-reports-worst-vehicles.
Sales figures for the Chrysler 300 reflected the model's improved reputation. US sales more than doubled to 44,200 units in the first seven months of 2012, helping Chrysler gain 1.2 percentage points of market share. The strong performance of the 300 contributed to the brand’s recovery following the Fiat takeover and the introduction of updated models across the range.
Reliability and recommendation status
While the 300's test performance marked a turnaround for Chrysler’s flagship saloon, its absence from Consumer Reports’ list of recommended vehicles highlights the challenge of building a consistent reliability record. The publication’s policy requires a model to demonstrate reliability over time before it can be recommended to buyers. As of August 2012, insufficient owner data meant the 300 had not yet achieved this status, despite its advances in other areas.
Chrysler 300 in context
The 2011 redesign of the Chrysler 300, with improved drivetrain and interior, helped restore its standing among large saloons. Its strong Consumer Reports test result signalled a shift in perception for Chrysler’s largest car, which had previously struggled for recognition against more established rivals. The 300’s market gains and improved critical reception suggest that the changes made after Fiat’s involvement were having the desired effect by mid-2012.
