Chrysler 300 Makes for Edgy Choice on 10 Best Family Cars List

NATICK, MASS. (03/07/2012)(readMedia)-- Chrysler is quick to point out the style and power of its large luxury flagship, the 300, but Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com recently saw a softer side of the bad-boy sedan. The automotive-information group recently featured the 2012 Chrysler 300 available at Chrysler dealerships on its 10 Best Family Cars of 2012 list, proving that the Town & Country minivan isn't the brand's lone family-friendly product.

Kbb.com based its 10 Best Family Cars of 2012 list on a range of factors, including safety, comfort, child-friendliness, strong consumer ratings and low cost of ownership. The 2012 Chrysler 300 was the only full-size sedan on the list, earning praise for its distinctive styling, premium standard features and outstanding comfort. Kbb.com editors also noted the 300's fuel-efficient yet powerful V6 powertrain and class-exclusive eight-speed automatic transmission.

"Chrysler's 300 is a great vehicle for families that refuse to give up style and driving enjoyment just because they have one or two little ones onboard," said Richard Gill, owner of Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Natick, Massachusetts Chrysler dealer. "Some family vehicles are just glorified boxes on wheels, but Chrysler has proven that kid friendly doesn't have to mean bland and boring."

It was the Chrysler 300's stylish appeal that came into play in its victory over the 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan in Autoblog's recent luxury-sedan comparison test. The online automotive publication chose to compare the 300 and Genesis because they are the only full-size, rear-wheel-drive luxury sedans available with base prices at less than $35,000, providing premium features without a premium price.

Powered by Chrysler's Pentastar V6 engine, the Chrysler 300 has 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque on tap, offering ample acceleration while returning 31 mpg on the highway, two more than the Genesis sedan. The Chrysler also sports more trunk space, 16.3 cubic-feet compared to 15.9 cubic-feet for the Hyundai, which means there is plenty of room for groceries, golf clubs or luggage for a family of four.

Autoblog editors praised the Chrysler 300 for its style both inside and out, while criticizing the Hyundai's interior for being "bland." Chrysler designers focused on soft-touch materials throughout the 300's cabin, including optional soft-leather upholstery that is available in classic Black or a vibrant Radar Red for those looking to spice things up. Glossy piano-black trim pieces on the doors and dash add to the sense of sophistication, while the acoustic windshield, wheel liners and underbody closeouts ensure a quiet driving environment.

"Thanks to the Chrysler 300, you don't have to spend $70,000 to get a complete full-size luxury sedan," Gill noted. "The Chrysler 300 is the democratization of luxury: You can get the silent ride, the soft-leather upholstery and the innovative technology without having to be a millionaire."

About Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:

Family-owned Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has been helping Metro West drivers find new and used Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram vehicles for the past 45 years. They also provide expert auto service and OEM Chrysler, Dodge or Jeep parts, all backed up by their friendly, professional staff. Check out their wide selection of new and pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs at www.brighamgillmotorcars.com, or stop by their dealership, located at 817 Worcester Road (Route 9) in Natick, Massachusetts. You can reach them by phone at 877-881-6196 or like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/brighamgill to get the latest Jeep, Chrysler, Ram and Dodge news.