2005 Chrysler 300 Touring Wagon Preview

The car's suspension geometry is also contributed by Mercedes-Benz, a 5-link rear setup that promises to amalgamate

Petition your local Chrysler dealer and a 300 wagon might just become a reality in North America. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler Canada)

sophisticated European handling dynamics with ballsy American V8 grunt, a tantalizing combination. I've driven both the 300 sedan, in its various guises, and the Magnum, and can attest to the power of the HEMI as well as the nimble nature of the chassis. One drive is all it takes to see why such a diverse group of customers are trading in everything from pickup trucks to big European luxury cars in order to put one in their garage.

So why has Chrysler chosen Europe for the 300 wagon? It's a continent where sport wagons have always been tremendously popular so it makes a great deal of sense. If the wagon's popularity continues to grow in North America, however, Chrysler would most likely ramp up production even further than it already has in order to satisfy customer demand.

So if you like what you see, petition your local Chrysler dealer and a 300 wagon might just become a reality in North America. And while you're at it, force the issue of a 300 SRT8 wagon. Now that would cause some excitement

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): N/A
• Body Type: 5-door wagon
• Layout: front engine, RWD (optional AWD)
• Base Engine: 250 hp, 250 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L, 24-valve SOHC V6
• Optional Engine: 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6
• Optional Engine: 340 hp, 390 lb-ft of torque, 5.7-L, 16-valve HEMI V8
• Transmission: 5-spd auto with manual mode
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EBD
• Curb Weight (min - max): N/A
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Capacity (estimated seats up/folded): 770 - 2,027 L (27.2 - 71.6 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 13.1 / 9.8 L/100 km (18 - 24 mpg) (3.5-L)
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 84/120,000 powertrain (Canadian)
• Direct Competitors: Audi A4/A6 Avant, BMW 3-Series/5-Series Touring, Honda Accord Wagon, Mazda6 Wagon, Mercedes-Benz C-Class/E-Class Wagon, Volkswagen Passat Wagon, Volvo V70
• Web Site: www.chrysler.ca