2009 Chrysler 300

The 2009 Chrysler 300 and 300C models are good people-haulers, with a smooth ride, comfortable interior and lots of trunk space. The V8 models are surprisingly fuel-efficient due to the included Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which can temporarily shut down half of the engine's cylinders when they're not needed.

Also, the high-performance SRT8 model is in another league altogether, with acceleration and braking that are competitive with some of the top sport sedans from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi.

The Chrysler 300 is offered in seven different models with four different engines underhood for 2009. The base LX comes with a 178-hp 2.7L V6 engine, while Touring and Limited models get a 250-hp 3.5L V6. The top-of-the-range 300C comes with a 5.7L Hemi V8 making 340 hp and 390 ft-lb of torque, while the exclusive 300C SRT8 comes with a 425-hp, 6.1L version of the Hemi. Walter P. Chrysler Executive models are offered in both Touring and Hemi trim and add six inches in overall length.

All V6 models come with a 4-speed automatic transmission while the V8s are mated with a 5-speed automatic. An all-wheel drive system is available on Touring, Limited, and 300C models and features a new active transfer case with front axle disconnect that adjusts how much power is delivered to the front wheels depending on driving conditions.

Both the 5.7L and 6.1L Hemi V8s feature Chrysler's Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which turns off four of the cylinders when cruising or coasting, so as to improve fuel economy by as much as 20 percent.

The base LX model comes with a rather short equipment list relative to most other mid-size and large sedans. Anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control are optional, but standard on the other models.

The 300 includes an extensive list of available entertainment technology. Sirius satellite TV is offered on the 300, as is Sirius satellite radio, and the available DVD navigation system features a 6.5-inch screen. Then there's MyGig, an entertainment system that includes a 20-gigabyte hard drive for storing music and pictures, a built-in Gracenote music database and voice-memo recorder, and a UConnect Bluetooth hands-free phone interface.

Other options featured as part of packages include a sunroof, a 276-watt Boston Acoustics sound system with six speakers, California Walnut wood trim, remote start, LED interior illumination, SmartBeam headlamps and rain-sensing wipers. A Heritage Group Package is available on the 300C and brings a 368-watt sound system, luxury leather seating with heated rear seats and poplar burl interior accents. And for the truly power-hungry, there is the exclusive SRT8 model, which includes a 425-hp 6.1L version of the Hemi V8, a specially calibrated AutoStick 5-speed automatic, a lowered sport suspension and performance-tuned ESP stability control. Big 20-inch wheels, a functional hood scoop for added cooling, Brembo vented brakes, and larger dual chromed exhaust tips are also included. Inside, the SRT8 includes performance suede seat inserts, LED interior lighting and an electronic vehicle information center.