Chrysler 300C

The new Chrysler 300C will arrive in the UK in spring 2012 fitted with an updated version of the previous model's V6 diesel engine. Featuring more understated styling than before, the updated version gets a five-speed automatic gearbox, with a new eight-speed version joining the line-up later in the year. The interior has received a major overhaul displaying a more luxurious feel plus the addition of an 8.4-inch colour touchscreen. Available to order in April, the new Chrysler 300C will go head-to-head with the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, BMW 5 Series and Audi A6 - but should undercut all of its premium competition.

In the UK just one engine is available, but fortunately it's a talented all-rounder. The 3.0-litre V6 diesel comes with either 187bhp or 236bhp, but both are punchy and smooth, and make the 300C an excellent cruiser. The flagship version has

an impressive 149mph top speed, and gets from 0-62mph in 7.8 seconds, good figures for a car this large. The steering is well weighted, if a little numb, and it handles well considering its above average weight. The only dynamic issue is the five-speed automatic gearbox, as its slow responses quickly become frustrating on more demanding roads.

For this new model, Chrysler introduced plenty of extra insulation, so the refreshed 300C is more hushed than ever. Even at high speed on the motorway, very little wind or road noise intrude the cabin, which makes it a very relaxing car to drive over long distances. Ride comfort is good too, although the optional 20-inch alloy wheels can make it feel jittery over more uneven road surfaces, and the standard 18-inch rims are a better option for UK drivers. The electrically adjustable drivers seat makes finding a good driving position simple, and all-round visibility is excellent.

The 300C is still a seriously big car - in the same league as the BMW 7 Seriesand Mercedes S-Class - but it's not as practical as you might think. There's a huge amount of space inside for passengers with lots of legroom, but headroom will be a little tight for anyone over six feet tall. There are lots of storage cubbies, and the cupholders in the centre console can be heated or chilled depending on whether you’re drinking a hot or cold beverage. Despite clever touches like this, the boot is disappointingly small. At just 462 litres, it's smaller than both the BMW 5 Series and Audi A6, and the odd shape of the loading bay and lack of a flat floor make fitting bigger items difficult. Also unlike the outgoing model there are no plans for an estate model in the future.