Chrysler 300C

The 300C is a chance for BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class buyers to drive the American dream. And with its attention-grabbing looks, high waistline, bold egg box-shaped front grille and chrome trim, there's no mistaking it - it's the perfect antidote to the sober offerings from prestige German manufacturers. An exceptionally well equipped, well-priced and comfortable saloon that undercuts its rivals by a minimum of several thousand pounds. There's also the option of a great 3.0-litre V6 diesel that nods towards economy, although the 3.5-litre V6 and 5.7-litre V8 petrols are somewhat thirstier.

V6, V8, SRT, CRD

The 3.0 V6 CRD and 3.5 V6 have cruise control, heated leather seats, leather steering wheel, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, trip computer, seat and mirror memory, six-speaker sound system, 18-inch alloy wheels, body coloured bumpers, chrome wing mirrors, parking sensors, metallic paint, ABS, traction control, electronic stability programme, seat belt pre-tensioners, rain sensitive wipers, remote central locking, dual front and side airbags and xenon headlamps. The 5.7-litre V8 adds an electric sunroof, walnut trim, seven-speaker stereo system with six-CD autochanger and satellite navigation.

6.1 V8 SRT