Motor Trend: Chrysler 300 vs Genesis 4.6 (Genesis Loses b/c of Suspension)

[cmartin]

At least I now know that I'm not off base in my first hand observations (after driving the 2012 3.8 Genesis that had a suspension that seemed awfully odd).

http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests..._300c_hyundai_genesis_comparison/viewall.html

Comparison: 2011 Chrysler 300C vs 2011 Hyundai Genesis

"The real test of these cars, though, is in ride quality, and again the 300C shines. While the 300C knows an SRT8 performance model is likely on the way and can relax a bit, the Genesis tries to be everything at once. The result is a Chrysler that floats down the road on a cloud and a Hyundai that rides like a sports sedan without the credentials to back it up. Worse, the front and rear suspension feel as though they're tuned for different cars, making the rear end nervous on patchy pavement. The Genesis may give its passengers more room, but the 300C gives them a better ride."​

 

[waveman]

Based on what I've read, the '12 Genesis sedan's ride has continued to improve. Here's what automobilemag.com said comparing the '12 Genesis 3.8 with the '11 Chrysler 300 and Avalon:

These sedans are far from sports cars, as they prioritize occupant comfort over corner carving. But the Hyundai Genesis still imparts some fun to the driver, and feels lithe when asked to navigate twisting roads. Upgrades for 2012 include beefier brakes and firmer anti-roll bars, making it a willing companion for enthusiastic driving. The Hyundai’s steering provides a decent amount of weight and feedback for this car’s class. The Genesis’ suspension strikes a balance between that of the Toyota and the Chrysler, providing more insulation than the 300 from road imperfections yet a slightly firmer ride than the Avalon.

The Chrysler 300 feels solid and composed on the road. Its firm suspension and wide tires (the widest of this trio) keep the car under control, along with strong brakes and decent feel from the chunky steering wheel. While its handling responses are respectable, the Chrysler’s weight precludes it from feeling as energetic as the Hyundai. Although the ride is generally pleasant, it can be jarring over severe bumps and doesn’t feel quite as settled as the Toyota. The 300 also admits the most road and wind noise to the cabin.

I drive an '11 4.6 Genesis, and although I understand why some people might not be satisfied with its suspension, I'm not one of them. Clearly, it's a somewhat subjective determination, however. I've also heard that there's a noticeable difference in the ride between the 3.8 and 4.6. Have you driven both?

 

[hwks1]

The 300 also admits the most road and wind noise to the cabin.[/I]

road and wind noise = game over for the 300c.

I have driven both the 3.8 and 4.6... just as everyone says the 4.6 drives nicer. Its really not even up to debate. The 4.6 has a quieter and smoother engine and the ride is noticeably better - smoother, more settled than the 3.8

 

[Vince2]

hwks1 "It's really not even up to debate" OK thanks for informing us.

 

[trotti]

I spent a weekend in a rented 300 - not even close to the build quality and comfort of the Genesis and, although this is subjective, I missed the "connectedness" I feel in my Genesis.

 

[cmartin]

I spent a weekend in a rented 300 - not even close to the build quality and comfort of the Genesis and, although this is subjective, I missed the "connectedness" I feel in my Genesis.

There's a big difference between the pre-2011 Chrysler 300s and the 2011 ones.

In fact, the difference is so big, that I swear almost anyone would think it's a completely different vehicle.

I am amazed at how smooth, solid and quiet the new 300 is, but will wait for reliability reports, the new 8 speed transmission and a for AWD before contemplating even putting one on the short list.

(With the economy the way it is, I'm thinking used again, as the price of used cars with low miles seems to be dropping again, too)

 

[Jimmmmbo!]

Nit-picking. It's all a matter of "what do you want".

I wanted a (1) pleasant interior with (2) good day-to-day road manners at (3) a great price point.

The Genesis met all 3; the Chrysler didn't. I don't want retro styling, I want a slightly firm suspension and I want all the features that I can get without being ridiculous about cost-cutting measures. The Genesis met that for me.

The 300 targets a certain customer; so does the Genesis. I got what I wanted and feel great about it. No buyer's remorse here.

 

[Seattle Genesis]

300 is ugly !

 

[Canuck Genesis V8]

300 is ugly !

Being a performance minded driver, I don't like to have a car that will lose at the stoplight grand prix (in a safe manner, of course!). Although the '12 300C SRT8) is bound to be slightly faster, I couldn't get over the looks of this car (in and out). Although some will love it (everybody has their preference), I personally think it is butt-ugly! Great performance but butt-ugly!! The 5.0 R-Spec is hugely more comfortable and luxurious and the styling is great. I always preferred Q-ships (mid '90's SHO, '02 Maxima SE, '09 Genesis 4.6) and the 5.0 R-Spec is the greatest Q-ship of them all !! Nobody knows what hit them until it is long gone...

 

[YEH]

Forget which auto publication it was, but the 2012 Genesis got the nod over the 300.

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