Chrysler 300 Outdoes American Rivals in Vehicle Satisfaction Awards

NATICK, MASS. (06/11/2012)(readMedia)-- A new customer-satisfaction survey shows that American automakers still lead when it comes to large cars, taking the top five spots in the segment, and it was the 2012 Chrysler 300 that rose to the top. AutoPacific and Autobytel Inc. recently named the Chrysler 300 the Top Rated Large Car in their 2012 Vehicle Satisfaction Awards, citing the vehicle's quiet ride, smooth handling and impressive power.

Automotive researcher AutoPacific and vehicle-information provider Autobytel put together the Vehicle Satisfaction Awards by surveying roughly 75,000 drivers that bought a 2012-model-year vehicle from September to December of 2011. Their survey covered 48 different areas of satisfaction, ranging from power and acceleration to styling and cargo space, in order to decide awards in 26 different segment categories. Owners of the 2012 Chrysler 300 proved to be the most satisfied in the Large Car category, ahead of the Ford Taurus, Dodge Charger, Buick LaCrosse and Chevy Impala.

"It's one thing to be happy during the first few weeks of ownership, but it's a different story after you spend a few months with your new ride," said Richard Gill, owner of Brigham-Gill Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Chrysler dealer in Massachusetts. "Chrysler 300 owners remain very pleased with their purchases thanks to the incredibly refined ride, high build quality and the powerful yet fuel-efficient drivetrain options."

The Chrysler 300's calling card is a sophisticated exterior that still manages to look muscular, featuring a high belt line and flared wheel arches. Inside, a laminated acoustic windshield and ample soundproofing in the wheel wells and under the floor provide a calm driving experience, while an optional dual-pane sunroof directs an abundance of light throughout the cabin.

While noise from the engine bay may be muted, the 300's performance is anything but subdued thanks to its powerful drivetrain options. The standard engine is the award-winning 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, which produces 292 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque while returning up to 31 mpg on the highway. Those looking for more power can opt for the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 with 363 horsepower or a 6.4-liter V8 powerplant in the SRT8 model that churns out 465 horsepower. That high performance doesn't mean an unquenchable thirst at the pump though, as both V8-equipped 300s can return 25 mpg on the highway.

Sales of the Chrysler 300 have skyrocketed this year, up 203 percent in 2012 year-over-year and rising by 140 percent in May compared to the same month last year. Those numbers helped the Chrysler brand reach its highest May sales in four years, as well as its 11th-straight month of year-over-year sales growth.

"Chrysler has done a great job of refining its vehicles without inflating their price tags, and that has brought results in showrooms," Gill noted. "The reason that so many Chrysler 300 owners are satisfied is that no other vehicle in its class offers such a great value."

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.