THEY all stare at the 300C Touring. Groups of kids, people on bikes, people at bus stops – even the bloke in an identical black model next to me at the traffic lights.
Difference was that his version had a spray of wedding flowers draped across the rear windscreen.
And that set me thinking. If you weren’t going to use the big Chrysler as a traditional luxury load-lugger, would it be more suited to weddings or funerals?
In truth it would fit either bill. For the nuptials there’s the most terrific interior space – according to Chrysler more rear legroom than both the BMW 7-Series and Jaguar XJ – as well as comfortable pale grey leather upholstery.
The raised level of the boot floor along with fold-flat rear seats mean it shouldn’t require much improvisation to carry a full-size coffin either.
Most fans of the American marque will be content to use the Touring as an estate, or more accurately a statement car – because that’s exactly what the big Chrysler is.
With its high waistline, huge wheels, intimidating stance and grille that wouldn’t look out of place in a maximum security state pen this is the sort of car you would expect the FBI or even the Men in Black to leap out of.
Its interior is of premium grade with a few small exceptions. For instance the leather seats and suede effect of the door linings and central storage box feel top quality. So too does the California walnut wood trim, the satin silver accents and elegant analogue clock.
But some of the fascia plastics feel brittle and the sound control buttons on the steering wheel are of a cheap pressed material.
As for travelling in comfort, this is guaranteed, even for a passenger in that rear centre position such is the wealth of head and legroom on offer.
While the 300C – on sale in Touring form since April – is available with a pair of gas-guzzling petrol models, much the most sensible engine is the 3.0-litre diesel featured in the test version.
This is the same common-rail diesel unit used by Mercedes, can return just under 35 miles per gallon and has ferocious pulling power should you floor the throttle.
It’s also a sweet, near silent, unit purring the Chrysler along in the manner of a limousine. In fact the only criticism would be a lack of feel from the steering which results in a floaty rather than positive driving experience.
The car’s trump card though is its price, in this case £27,275 for a macho machine that’s kitted up to the gills with the likes of eight-way adjustable heated front seats, leather upholstery, info centre, cruise control, top grade Boston sound system, rear cargo organiser and metallic paint as standard.
What’s certain is that the 300C Touring occupies no middle ground – you either love it or loathe it. Just don’t forget the black suit and shades.
FAST FACTS
Chrysler 300C 3.0 CRD Touring auto
Price: £27,275
Mechanical: 218bhp, 2,987cc, common-rail diesel engine driving rear wheels via 5spd auto gearbox
Max speed: 136mph
0-60mph: 8.6 secs
Combined mpg: 34.9
Insurance group: 16
CO2 emissions: 215g/km
BiK rating: 33%
Warranty: 3yrs/unlimited miles; 7yrs paint; 7yrs anti-rust