- Location
- Riverton, UT
Anyone have information on the Chrysler 300 4x4. Can it go on dirt roads, sand, #3 type trails, gas mileage, do they make a diesel etc. Looking at maybe a 1 or 2 year old.
Chrysler 300 4x4
- Thread starter jackjoh
- Start date
sixstringsteve
Well-Known Member
- Location
- UT
I remember reading that they're not very reliable cars.
http://www.300cforums.com/forums/general-discussion/27392-chrysler-300c-least-reliable-cars.html
http://www.300cforums.com/forums/general-discussion/27392-chrysler-300c-least-reliable-cars.html
TurboMinivan
Still plays with cars
- Location
- Lehi, UT
I can tell you a bit about the current-gen Chrysler 300, yes. 
The 300's AWD system is available with both engines. Every AWD model will feature 19" alloy wheels and 235/55 tires--this means the system is primarily designed for snowy roads. As you would expect, the transfer case has a center differential which results in very smooth front/rear power delivery. The system is an on-demand setup: it uses an active transfer case and a front axle disconnect, and both will disengage when not needed to maximize fuel economy. There are ways to force it to engage before slippage occurs (such as disabling the Electronic Stability Control system, or engaging the paddle shifters) so it can still come in handy so long as ground clearance is not an issue.
Fuel economy with the 292 HP PentaStar V6 is rated at 18/27 mpg city/hwy for the AWD models; if you opt for the 5.7L Hemi, the figures drop to 15/23 city/hwy. The PentaStar moves this car very well, so unless you're an absolute speed demon I expect that engine would make you happy. To date, Chrysler has not sold any 300 sedans stateside with a diesel engine.
I have a variety of AWD vehicles available here at my dealership, Jack. Depending on your intended usage, there might be other choices better suited to your needs (cough Subaru cough). Either way, I'd be happy to let you try out a few models and see what best fits for you.
The 300's AWD system is available with both engines. Every AWD model will feature 19" alloy wheels and 235/55 tires--this means the system is primarily designed for snowy roads. As you would expect, the transfer case has a center differential which results in very smooth front/rear power delivery. The system is an on-demand setup: it uses an active transfer case and a front axle disconnect, and both will disengage when not needed to maximize fuel economy. There are ways to force it to engage before slippage occurs (such as disabling the Electronic Stability Control system, or engaging the paddle shifters) so it can still come in handy so long as ground clearance is not an issue.
Fuel economy with the 292 HP PentaStar V6 is rated at 18/27 mpg city/hwy for the AWD models; if you opt for the 5.7L Hemi, the figures drop to 15/23 city/hwy. The PentaStar moves this car very well, so unless you're an absolute speed demon I expect that engine would make you happy. To date, Chrysler has not sold any 300 sedans stateside with a diesel engine.
I have a variety of AWD vehicles available here at my dealership, Jack. Depending on your intended usage, there might be other choices better suited to your needs (cough Subaru cough). Either way, I'd be happy to let you try out a few models and see what best fits for you.
jeep-N-montero
Formerly black_ZJ
- Location
- Bountiful
Yeah, a Subaru would definitely be a better choice.
- Location
- Riverton, UT
Here is my problem. My ZJ has 159K miles on it and I thought it would last until I die but haven't kicked the bucket yet. Getting old enough that I want a little more comfort and mileage then the Ram 2500 gives when not towing the 5th wheel. I doubt if I spend 10% of my driving time off road but still have the urge when health will let me. I want a high mpg easy riding highway car that will withstand some rough roads when possible. I looked at the 300 because the new ones are good on the highway and get 24/34 mpg (according to the report I read) with the V6 and they have 4x4 for SLC in the winter time. Also you realize I am Scotch, Mormon and Jewish so has to be excellent price and at least one year old. I value what black_ZJ says but not sure I like the Subaru and will look into TurboMinivan and Doug Smith Autoplex.
TurboMinivan
Still plays with cars
- Location
- Lehi, UT
I realize you've never met me, but please rest assured: I would never try to make up somebody's mind for them. I will of course make suggestions which would seem to be a good match for your intended use, but ultimately it will be completely your decision.
For the record, the best fuel economy rating for any Chrysler 300 is 19/31 city/hwy for the RWD model with the V6 and the 8-speed transmission. As I mentioned above, the AWD option drops those figures a bit.
As for the highway remark, you are correct: the 300--in any model or trim level--is phenomenal on the highway. They are quiet, smooth and very comfy.
I initially suggested a Subaru (particularly the Outback) for the following reasons:
- the Outback is also very comfortable on the open road
- the Outback will get significantly better fuel economy than an AWD 300
- the Outback has about 50% more ground clearance and far more suspension travel than the 300
Again, I'm not trying to convince you against your will. I'm just here to help a friend by pointing out what might be the perfect solution to your dilemma. If you decide against it, that's absolutely fine. There will be no hard feelings whatsoever.
If you want more insight from an impartial source, ask Brett Davis to tell you about his Outback wagon.