Car Prices Blogs

Big luxury cars will always have a place in the hearts and minds of American car buyers, especially if you have to choose between the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon. These two cars are entirely different in design and intent (more on that later), but they both provide generous amounts of interior room along with opulent levels of comfort.

When thinking about which luxury car to buy, you should definitely include the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon to your shopping list.

Update: There is a new Toyota Avalon that will be launched in the last quarter of 2012. Until the new car hits the showrooms, we will compare the 2012 Toyota Avalon with the 2012 Chrysler 300.

Engines and Powertrain

The base Chrysler 300 is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 with 292hp with rear-wheel drive (AWD is an option on higher trim levels). This engine is controlled via a 5-speed or 8-speed automatic tranmission. You can also choose the 5.7-liter V8 with 363hp and a five-speed automatic. The SRT8 model comes with a 6.3-liter V8 with 470hp. In the meantime, Toyota is offering the Avalon with a solitary 3.5-liter V6 with 268hp and a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard on the Toyota Avalon.

Fuel Economy

The Chrysler 300 is rated at 18/27 MPG in rear-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic transmission. The V6 with the 8-speed automatic transmission achieves 19/31 MPG. The Toyota Avalon has a fuel mileage of 19/28 MPG.

Equipment Levels

The Chrysler 300 comes equipped with automatic headlights, auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual zone auto climate control, and keyless ignition and entry. The Toyota Avalon has more standard equipment including supple leather upholstery, sunroof, rearview camera, and a power driver seat.

Safety

We are proud to say that the Chrysler 300 and the Toyota Avalon were both included in the Top Safety Pick of the IIHS for 2012. Both cars were given an overall ‘Good’ rating in front and side impact crash tests. Both cars come equipped with airbags galore along with stability and traction control.

Price

This is where the Chrysler 300 shines as it also has an attractive base price. The 300 starts at only $27,470 while the Toyota Avalon starts at $33,195.

Both of these cars are supple and comfortable to drive, but as previously mentioned in the first part of this post, they are different when it comes to styling and intent. The Chrysler 300 is sportier than the Toyota Avalon, and the styling will cater to both young and old alike. The Toyota Avalon carries the tradition of conservative Toyota styling, while on-road behavior is tuned towards comfort rather than driving enjoyment.

Make sure that you compare new car prices before you buy. This will help you find the right car that will bring you true value for money.