2015 Chrysler 300 Criticized For Poor Performance
Months after its 2014 debut, the 2015 Chrysler 300 is gaining flack for not living up to the on-the-road stability of other large sedans. In a review of the vehicle’s handling, Washington Post columnist Warren Brown eloquently put into words what many drivers only thought when navigating the monstrosity through rough winds, “And in that violent air, the wide-bodied architecture turns the car into a flighty albatross, controllable only with the utmost attention and effort.”
In addition to poor stability in harsh winds, negative reviews of the Chrysler 300 point out the car’s unimpressive legroom and rear visibility, according to Edmunds. This isn’t great news for the Michigan-based auto manufacturer, as the company’s attempt to outperform the latest foreign sedans in performance and affordability continues to fall short. When compared with global auto brands like Hyundai and Toyota, the Chrysler 300 is more costly without offering superior drivability, which may explain an overall decline in Chrysler 300 sales.
In comparison, the 2015 Toyota Avalon was tied for the number two spot on US News’ list of most affordable large cars, sharing the position with the 2015 Chevrolet SS. Both vehicles received top ratings in the categories of performance and interior, whereas the 2015 Chrysler 300 appeared at No. 7 with significantly lower performance ratings. Despite receiving high safety ratings, the Chrysler 300 struggles to compete with similar, more affordable cars known for better road performance.
According to The Detroit News, Toyota recently unveiled 2016 updates of their most popular cars, including the Avalon, at the Chicago Auto Show, which boasts an upgraded exterior and improved navigation system. Reviews of the 2016 Avalon already tout the car’s comfortable ride thanks to an improved suspension, Car and Driver confirms. Until the 2016 Chrysler 300 is released, it’s unclear how its stability and performance will be tweaked.
Despite negative reviews, optimism is not in short supply at Chrysler. Brand president Al Gardner reports the company is successfully recovering from the Chrysler 300’s 8 percent decline in sales seen in 2014, hinting that the drop in sales was partially due to a growing preference for crossover vehicles. “Consumers with a little more money in their pocket are either switching to something bigger but more likely they are putting more options on the car.”
Following a report by the Inquisitr that Chrysler is facing Fiat recall issues, the company continues to hold out hope for future sales. The yet unreleased 2016 Chrysler 300 is rumored to have an updated exterior and increased horsepower, which may begin to assuage consumers’ concerns about its performance.
