Chrysler Goes Global With New 2000 300M Sedan

By Vince Bodiford
Automotive Editor

As more and more auto manufacturers adopt a vision necessary to survive in a global environment, most of us think first of Japanese or European cars as the export leaders. But, good old-fashioned American iron is once again among the most desired and sought-after cars in the international market. This dramatic comeback of American designed and built cars comes on the heels of some rather tasteless hybrids, the worst of which came from Chrysler. Those days are over. Enter the new Chrysler 300M. The 2000 Chrysler 300M is a distinctly designed American sedan developed with international markets in mind - the mission of the 300M since its first appearance in the market last year. The 300M combines sophisticated American design with features, technology and a spacious, open "living environment" to provide stress-free, relaxed performance, at a sticker price of less than $30,000. The 300M utilizes second-generation "cab forward" design, a dramatic profile, and aggressive front fascia for a blend of styling that is stand-alone, easily recognizable and very good looking.

Chrysler resurrected the 300 series from the famous, high-performance full-sized sedans of the 1950s that captured the imagination of motorists of that era. The "M" designation of the big, front-engine, rear-wheel-drive car then was indicative of Chrysler's involvement in international motorsports of the time. That era's 300Ms on the racecourse at Daytona Beach were among the most competitive in the field.

This vehicle is critical to Chrysler's global success. The 300M began a new chapter for Chrysler as the automaker refines its range of distinct, premium American vehicles for worldwide markets. The Chrysler 300M is now the image leader for the Chrysler brand overseas and the first of an entire new line of passenger cars to be introduced over the next three years. The Chrysler 300M will serve as the flagship in any of Chrysler's key international markets, including Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Brazil, and the Middle East. The 300M was engineered, designed and tested over all sorts of roads and tracks - from inner-city commuting to long-distance touring.

The 300M features a new range of cleaner burning, fuel-efficient all-aluminum V-6 engines. Those engines are mated to the fully electronic AutoStick® transmission, which gives the driver the control of a manual transmission without sacrificing the convenience of an automatic.

Inside, the 300M takes giant leaps away from awkward and cluttered interiors. This car is comfortable, clean, well laid out and simple. Most remarkable is the analog instrument cluster - white during the day, and a cool, green backlit glow at night - sort of like a Timex Indiglo® watch in your dashboard. This car captures the best elements of American design - generous interior space and abundant features with careful attention to detail. Standard features include a premium Infinity® 240-watt sound system with nine speakers, heated power leather seats with driver's side memory, air conditioning with automatic temperature control, adjustable rear seat ventilation, trip computer with compass and outside temperature, and illuminated visor mirrors with intensity adjustment.

Key international competitors include such makes as Honda Legend, Lexus GS300, Saab 9-5 and Volvo S-80. The Chrysler 300M is a distinctly American performance sedan that is at once casual, comfortable and sophisticated - a competent automotive ambassador from Detroit.

For more information about the Chrysler 300M sedan, contact the Chrysler dealer nearest you or visit their web site at www.chryslercars.com.