Chrysler 300 vs BMW 2 Series

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that diverged from the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It maintained a distinct look without the exaggerated grille, offering a more refined yet dynamic appearance. The 2 Series was available in various configurations, including the RWD 230i Coupe and AWD M240i xDrive Coupe, both of which featured extended dimensions compared to their predecessors. The design enhancements, such as a wider kidney grille and reshaped headlights, contributed to its agile and aerodynamic profile. The M240i xDrive Coupe, in particular, showcased performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents and standard M Shadowline package features.

Inside, the 2 Series Coupe offered a driver-focused interior with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The cabin was equipped with an 8.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradable to a 10.25-inch display, and featured tri-zone automatic climate control. Optional amenities included keyless entry, heated seats, and a moonroof. The M240i xDrive came with additional standard features like mood lighting and a larger moonroof. Despite its high-end vibe, some interior elements revealed cost-cutting measures, such as the use of plastics in certain areas.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 retained its classic styling, reminiscent of a Bentley, with its bold grille and stately proportions. Despite its age, the 300 continued to impress with its blacked-out appearance and large 20-inch wheels. For its final production year, the 300 was available in Touring, Touring L, 300S, and 300C trims, with the 300C being a limited edition featuring a powerful V8 engine. The 300C was fully loaded with performance enhancements, making it a compelling choice for enthusiasts.

Inside, the 300C offered premium Laguna leather upholstery and carbon-fiber trim, though the overall interior quality reflected its age. The front seats provided comfort with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, while the rear seats were less accommodating due to limited legroom and a slouched seating position. Storage space was limited, lacking modern conveniences like wireless charging. The trunk, however, offered a generous 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series delivered impressive performance for a subcompact coupe. The 230i Coupe featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the M240i xDrive boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The 230i Coupe accelerated to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, while the M240i xDrive achieved the same in just 4.1 seconds. Both models had a top speed of either 130 mph or 155 mph, depending on specifications. The 2 Series came with an eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, offering smooth shifts and quick responses with paddle shifters. The M240i xDrive included performance features like an adaptive M suspension and M Sport brakes, enhancing its handling and dynamics.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C revived the spirit of the 300 SRT with its 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, producing 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain enabled a 4.3-second sprint to 60 mph and a top speed of 160 mph. The 300C featured an adaptive damping suspension, Brembo brakes, and performance tires, providing a thrilling driving experience. Driving modes allowed customization of drivetrain response, steering effort, suspension firmness, and exhaust sound. The 300C's platform, derived from mid-1990s Mercedes-Benz E-Class components, offered a unique driving sensation reminiscent of older AMG-tuned vehicles. However, the 300C's performance came at the cost of cabin noise and fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 18 mpg combined.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series, while technically seating four, was best suited for front-seat occupants due to its compact size. The rear seats were cramped, making them suitable only for small children or short trips. The coupe's slanted roofline and design elements limited rear headroom and trunk space, though the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats allowed for some cargo flexibility. The interior featured soft-touch materials and improved ergonomics, with multifunction buttons on the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel.

The 2023 Chrysler 300, classified as a full-size car, offered a spacious front seating area with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats, however, were less accommodating due to limited legroom and a slouched seating position. Storage options were limited, lacking modern conveniences like wireless charging. The trunk provided a generous 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space, with enclosed lid hinges to prevent damage to belongings.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with an 8.8-inch touchscreen and a 5.1-inch driver information display, featuring BMW Live Cockpit Plus with over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and real-time traffic updates. Connectivity options included a WiFi hotspot, USB ports, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The optional Live Cockpit Professional upgraded the infotainment system to a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital display. The 2 Series also offered remote features like the BMW Digital Key and a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system, with an optional Harman Kardon 14-speaker system.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 featured the previous-generation Uconnect infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system, while functional, showed its age with dated graphics and a small screen. The 300C included an SRT Dashboard for setting driving modes and tracking performance. The Harman Kardon 19-speaker audio system provided a bass-heavy sound experience. The 300C also offered a speed warning feature, though it lacked a surround-view camera system and had limited outward visibility.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series was equipped with Active Driving Assistant, including features like active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional safety features included adaptive front LED headlights, automatic high beams, and a 360-degree surround view. The BMW Drive Recorder allowed for recording driving footage. The 2 Series had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2023 Chrysler 300 offered optional safety features through the Safety Tec Plus Group, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The lane-keeping assist system was useful without being intrusive. The 300's crash-test ratings were outdated, with a Marginal rating in the IIHS moderate-overlap frontal-impact test and Poor headlight performance.