2010 Chrysler 300 - Trims

It might seem strange to see a Chrysler product on the same shortlist as some very established European luxury marques, but keep in mind that the 300 was developed when Chrysler was owned by Mercedes-Benz, making the 300C's competitiveness less of a surprise.

The 2010 Chrysler 300 doesn't fit neatly into a particular segment and thus takes on a wide range of sedans.

The base, Limited, and Touring models of the 300 can be compared to domestic competitors, including the Ford Taurus and the Buick Lucerne.

Compared to the Chrysler, the Lucerne is a bit of a wallflower, while there’s a certain presence on the outside and a classy feel inside that still distinguishes the 300.

The new Taurus from Ford provides a more realistic alternative to the 300, although it's not as visually dramatic—even considering its lower-profile redesign for 2010.

With its HEMI V-8, tighter suspension, and premium interior, the 300C is a legitimate alternative to Cadillac's CTS and STS.

If you throw the Ford Taurus SHO into the mix, then there is even more for the Chrysler to be worried about.

The Taurus SHO performance model has enough authority to take on HEMI V-8 versions of the Chrysler 300C, and the SHO has all-wheel drive.

The Chrysler's driving dynamics and quality are also comparable to those of the BMW 5-Series and Audi A6, although the 300 feels heftier in tight corners.