The second-generation Chrysler LHS and the Chrysler 300M
Chrysler 300M review | Chrysler 300M Special Review | Repairs and Performance Upgrades
Key competitive vehicles were used as benchmarks in the design of new vehicles; benchmarking was used to set quality and function objectives. Benchmark vehicles having similar technology and construction were assessed to determine their efficiency and performance on key functions. For example, cars with longitudinal, front-wheel drive power trains were evaluated for power train noise, vibration and harshness characteristics.
The following benchmark vehicles, which are different from the marketing target vehicles, were used to establish functional performance criteria:
| Chrysler LHS | Chrysler 300M | Both LHS and 300M |
|---|---|---|
| Lexus ES 300 | Lexus GS 300 | 1993-1997 Vision and LHS |
| Toyota Avalon | BMW 528 and BMW 740i | Nissan Maxima |
| Lincoln Continental | Buick Park Avenue | Infiniti Q45, J30, I30 |
| Cadillac STS | Oldsmobile LSS | Mazda Millenia |
| Oldsmobile Aurora | Audi A6 | Lexus LS 400 |
All seat tracks have 8.7 inches (220 mm) of longitudinal adjustment. This range of travel accommodates 96% of the US adult driving population. Slim center and rear pillars provide wide door openings, particularly in the rear, for easy entry and exit. The LHS trunk is roomier than in 1997; both LHS and 300M trunks benefit from a new hinge linkage that does not intrude on useable space.
The 3.5-liter V-6 engine increases acceleration. Stiffened, strengthened and refined engine structure makes it run smoother and quieter. Platinum-tipped spark plugs and coil-on-plug ignition systems provide 100,000-mile scheduled tune-up intervals for both engines.
Fuel economy was increased by lowering weight and reducing brake and aerodynamic drag.
Subtle revision of the steering system, suspension systems and tires increase steering, handling, and ride qualities with reduced harshness and road noise.
A "battery saver" system turns off exterior and interior courtesy lamps if the driver forgets. The starter is prevented from operating when the engine is running. Enhanced power train electronic system capabilities help assure mobility.
Body Systems
- The body structure is substantially stiffer than previous models for enhanced interior quietness.
- Unique structural sill construction that has no outer skin allows each body to have a unique sill appearance using molded plastic sill cladding.
- Quad head lamps are standard on Chrysler LHS and Chrysler 300M.
- Aerodynamic development of the body and related systems significantly improved windshield wiper and washer performance. Body mounted windshield washer nozzles with six individual washer jets (three per side) provide full glass coverage.
- One-piece, die-cast window opening moldings increase fit and finish.
Interior Features
- All-new seats provide increased comfort and support
- A new windshield defrosting system clears the glass more quickly and more completely than the prior system
- New radios provide easily understandable features and controls
- Radio and HVAC controls have the same appearance and feel
- The driver's floor mat includes a tie-down hook to hold it in place
Ergonomics
- The column-mounted multi-function switch stalk is raised slightly and its graphics are rotated toward the driver to improve visibility through the steering wheel
- The floor console armrest is raised 1.2 inches (30 mm) and the leading edge is slightly forward of its former location, making it level with the door armrest
- The remote trunk release button is readily visible and accessible on the instrument panel
- Radio and HVAC controls are in the center of the instrument panel and placed closer to the driver than on prior models. A new radio mounting system allows radio and HVAC controls to be closer to each other for easier access
- Radio and ATC (automatic temperature control) operation and logic are refined. Button shape, nomenclature, freedom from hidden functions and tactile feedback contribute to clear and intuitive operation
- The steering column tilt lever curves upward for easy access
- Steering wheel spoke size and placement are designed to allow a variety of hand positions and assure visibility of cluster and switches
- The steering wheel rim is softer and more comfortable
- Pressing the flexible steering wheel trim pad operates the horn switch
Safety And Security
- Next-generation, hybrid driver and passenger air bags use smokeless inflators
- Interior trim provides extended head impact protection meeting 2003 standards now
- Dynamic side impact protection system
- A Sentry Key(TM) Theft Deterrent system provides enhanced vehicle theft protection
- Standard HomeLink universal transmitter uses "rolling code" technology to enhance security
Quietness
Reduced engine noise, better suspension isolation, improved body structural stiffness and better insulation all contribute to quietness. A rubber-isolated rear suspension cross member significantly reduces interior noise for rear seat passengers. Front suspension and power train mounting cradle isolation is significantly refined. Larger door weather strips and more accurate door fitting help minimize wind noise. Full-stamped doors provide a consistent sealing surface for the weather strips.
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics played a major role in refining the exterior designs. The combination of a rounded front end in plan view, lower fascia shaping, gently flowing windshield pillars, aero-tuned sill cladding to enhance air flow around the tires and a tapered rear end combine to give these cars outstanding aerodynamics. The designs contain subtle aerodynamic refinements in the cowl, outside mirrors, windshield pillars and windshield header that reduce wind noise and help control water flow over the body as well as reducing drag. The drag coefficient of both vehicles is .31.
Aerodynamics features for water flow management and wind noise reduction include:
- One-piece side window moldings have the least possible offset from the glass and include full perimeter sealing to the door frame that minimizes wind noise
- Full-stamped doors and full side aperture body construction provide more stable and accurate sealing surfaces to reduce wind noise
- A cowl screen formed to deflect air above wipers reduces wind noise and eliminates washer fluid upward flow off parked wiper blades
- Water channels in the windshield side moldings keep the lower half of the side windows clear while limiting wind noise
- Outside mirrors are shaped for low wind noise
- Full door opening upper weather stripping stops roof water from entering open doors
The following new or improved features help ensure ample cooling air flow through the engine compartment:
- Cubic-curve surfaces surround the grille opening to maximize air flow through the grille
- Slots in the cowl screen allow air to flow over the engine mounts and exit at the rear lip of the hood
- A portion of the hood-to-cowl seal is removed to provide a cooling air flow path over electrical and electronic equipment
- Louvers in the engine compartment side panels and enlarged openings for the drive shafts and tie rods allow air to exit through the wheel wells
- Vastly improved front air dam and fascia and a small under tray between the lower radiator cross member and the power train/suspension cradle forces air to exit aft of the engine, not recirculate through the cooling module
- Baffles between fascia and radiator support panel force incoming air through the cooling module
300M and LHS Noise Reduction
300M and LHS noise, vibration, and harshness reduction.
Updates and notes
The 2002 Chrysler LHS was renamed to Chrysler Concorde, and the existing Concorde was eliminated. We have a review of this vehicle (the Concorde-named LHS), as well as the 1999 and 2001 300M and the 2002 Chrysler 300M Special.
Chrysler 300M review | Chrysler 300M Special Review | Repairs and Performance Upgrades