Driving like the boss

NOT too long ago, I test-drove the Chrysler 200, a sleek model affectionately referred to as the ‘baby 300’.

It certainly didn’t feel like a baby car at the time but after getting behind the wheel of the 300C, I can comfortably say this is the daddy for a reason.

I really enjoyed the 200, but the 300C takes a good thing and makes it even better … or at least bigger.

In terms of styling there isn’t a massive difference between the models, both are sophisticated sedans that ooze character. However, besides the obvious size difference, the subtleties are where the distinctions lie.

It’s interior is where the Chrysler 300C really sets itself apart from its segment rivals. It boasts fine finishes and soft touch surfaces on the dashboard, upper doors and centre stack, which gives the model a welcoming ambiance. The analogue clock and ambient lighting also give the model a refined feel.

Housed in the centre stack is this model’s crowning glory, the touch-screen display panel. It can be used to control the majority of infotainment features, it’s easy to navigate and, most importantly, easy to use while driving.

Simply put, 300C is a boss car. When you get behind the wheel you feel like the boss … of what? Well, I don’t know, but something really important for sure.

It’s big, wide and has a commanding presence on the road, which gives you a feeling of great confidence when trying to make your way through Manama’s manic Thursday traffic.

Now, it must be said, big cars generally do not corner well and that’s the price you have to pay for the space and comfort of driving a ‘yank tank’. Some of the turns in Adliya’s treacherous back alleys can be a challenge even for a modestly-sized car and I wouldn’t recommend trying them in this model.

However, on an open stretch of road, in my opinion, you’d be hard-pressed to find a smoother or more comfortable ride than in the 300C.

As I got on to Seef Highway and gleefully switched to the left-hand lane, I knew I was in for a very pleasant surprise. Under the bonnet of the model I drove is Chrysler’s new Pentastar 3.6-litre V6, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. It has a staggering amount of power and with a slight tap of the accelerator; this boss car is in business. There is also a 5.7-litre option for those who want even more power.

Safety is also something worth bragging about. This model boasts adaptive speed control, blind spot and cross path detection, forward collision warning, multistage front air bags, inflatable knee-bolster air bag, side curtain airbags and electronic stability control.

Some of the creature comforts on-board include duel zone air conditioning, electronically adjustable seats, CD, radio and MP3 player, audio jack input for mobile devices, Bluetooth, voice command, push button ignition and electro-hydraulic power steering to name but a few.

One of the features I enjoyed most was the rear-parking camera … which is absolutely essential with this model. It makes light work of slotting this sleek sedan neatly into almost any space you can find.

All-in-all, this is a big car with a big personality to match.

Prices start from BD15,000 for the 3.6-litre and BD17,000 for the 5.7-litre and there are a range of Ramadan packages available.

For details, contact Ahmed Zayani & Sons on 17238822.