Chrysler 300 vs Cadillac CTS

Every brand needs to undergo occasional makeovers to keep its product portfolio relevant. Brands like Lexus and Jaguar have been doing this the last 5 to 10 years, but the brand that took it upon itself to reinvent its image, and the car that started it all, was the CTS. It arrived in 2002 and was the first truly modern Cadillac. Unlike its big land-barge predecessors, the CTS was taut and featured angular styling and forward-looking engines and technology.

Each successive generation of the CTS has seen an evolution of the angles, the powertrains, and the tech, culminating with this car: the 2016 Cadillac CTS. The third generation of the CTS is the largest, most refined, and most high-tech version of the car to date. The third generation of the CTS debuted for the 2015 model year, and is largely carried over to 2016, save for a few key updates.

That bellowing is courtesy of a 6.4-liter Hemi, returning to the Chrysler 300 for the first time since 2014. Available only in the limited-production 300C model, it puts enough power to the rear wheels to effortlessly repave the roads with rubber. Fortunately, Chrysler fortifies the 300C with wheel, tire, suspension, and braking upgrades to help drivers make the most of the muscle under the hood. Naturally, there is also an active exhaust system that makes plenty of noise.

Verdict: Even as it ages toward retirement, the Chrysler 300 remains a strikingly attractive, large sedan. With an available 6.4-liter V8 engine, it packs the firepower to support its muscle-car looks. However, the aging platform leaves much to be desired in terms of tech, comfort, and safety.