The Chrysler brand is a premium make, but its competition is Buick not Cadillac, Lexus or Lincoln. This means that Chrysler lacks a true luxury brand, something it hasn't had since the Imperial was its flagship sedan.
Chrysler, however, has a line of rear- and all-wheel-drive models that derives its platform from Mercedes-Benz technology. Its 300 and 300C stem from the automaker's days as part of the failed DaimlerChrysler entity, vehicles that were updated in 2011 and continue to lead the Chrysler brand.
The 300 series is as close to being a luxury car as you can get and with the introduction of the Luxury Series, this model is now the most luxurious Chrysler product ever built, even topping previous Imperial models that stood for luxury.
Here is what you'll find in the Chrysler 300 and 300C Luxury Series:
Exterior Enhancements -- The 300's athletic, but luxurious stance receives several important exterior treatments in the Luxury Series. RWD models are equipped with 20-inch polished face wheels while AWD models are outfitted with 19-inch painted pocket aluminum wheels. Its fascia features platinum chrome accents, side mirror caps and chrome door handles. Its grille is unique to this series too and features a platinum-chrome finish with platinum chrome mesh.
Engines and Transmissions -- Choose the V-6 engine with rear-wheel-drive and this motor is paired with a ZF-licensed 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine enables the big Chrysler to attain a class-leading 31 mpg on the highway. A 5.7-liter V-8 is available too and comes paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Interior Upgrades -- How do you define luxury? Step inside the Luxury Series and a cabin full of enhancements are included. An 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Garmin navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link, an LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC are among the features present. This model also includes a power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory settings; power-adjustable pedals with memory; a power backlight sunshade; Berber carpet floor mats featuring satin chrome lower door sills with "Chrysler" logo; dual heated and cooled cup holders; foot well lighting; LED-illuminated interior door handles and map pockets for the front and rear. Many of the standard features found in the Luxury Series are optional in other editions if available at all.
Safety Measures -- Front, side and driver's knee airbags are standard with the Luxury Series as are side curtain airbags that offer protection for outboard sitting passengers. This sedan is equipped with four-wheel anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control and features active head restraints to protect occupants.
Chrysler Warranties -- If you're ever stuck, towing assistance is provided for the first 36 months or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. This vehicle offers a bumper to bumper warranty for 36 months or 36,000 miles. Drivetrain and corrosion warranties have Chrysler models protected for 5 years or 100,000 miles. Extended warranties are available through your Chrysler dealership.
Cost for the well-appointed 300 Luxury Series begins at $40,145 or about $12,000 more than base models. However, this Chrysler is competitively priced with other full-size luxury sedans, offering a lower beginning price point than most.
Matthew C. Keegan is editor and publisher of "Auto Trends Magazine." Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Chrysler 300 fenders and Chrysler 300 accessories.
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