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Car Review for 2000 Chrysler Concorde LXi

Today’s car market is bursting at the welds with various segments and classes. Luxury cars, economy cars, mid-level sedans. Carmakers trying to satisfy all their hungry clients with everything they could possibly want. But so often, being between extremes suits the consumer just fine. With that said, let’s look at an offering from the lower luxury segment, something an aspiring luxury buyer might consider.

The Chrysler Concorde is the younger sibling to its classier brother, the LHS. Same DNA, familiar habits and quirks, just a different face. The 2.7 liter SOHC V6 engine provides smooth and quite power, producing an adequate 220hp, it definitely won’t chirp the tires. What it will do, is return up to 29mpg on the highway, all the while attempting to whisper its many virtues to you, the driver.

The Concorde was built to fill the needs of those drivers who require affordable luxury, without all the necessary bells and whistles, although they are optional. Power leather seats, available 4-disc, 7 speaker Infinity sound system, survive to coddle the aural and nasal senses; while soft touch surfaces, imitation wood trim, and sculpted dash and console provide a sensuous retreat from the world.

On the outside, the Concorde is all about sleekness and curves. From its gaping oval grille in the front, to its sculpted, tapered tail, the baby-LHS presents 21st century aerodynamics. Available 16in alloy wheels provide comfortable grip plus a smooth ride, while not looking too garish or powerful. The smooth styling is devoid of nearly any lines or creases, just one looooong jelly-bean on wheels. The styling remains a testament to simplicity and elegance, with just a little glint of chrome around the grille and filling the tires.

While driving around town and cruising the highway, the Concorde remains stable and fluid. Nicely weighted steering provides quick handling and enough Morse code through wheel, to let you know there are potholes and dips in the road. Steering is helped along by speed-sensitive, variable-assist steering, and independent, multi-link suspension front and rear. Acceleration is strong and fairly silent, with a quick gear change from the transmission, accompanied by a gentle murmur from under the long hood. This is a cruise missile for the road!

When the need arises to stop, and it always seems to, the Concorde comes equipped with ABS and powerful disc brakes on all four corners. 11.5 inch rotors all around translates to adequate and quick braking when you ask for it. Braking is a smooth process, with little fade and gentle body movement.

The instrument cluster is all info and little deco, with two chrome rings around the tach and speedo. Gauges are easily read, with large white numbers on the black dials. Looking to the center console, one finds more smooth surfaces to touch with their fingers. Buttons are large and well labeled, easily adjusted with even a gloved hand. The dual zone HVAC blows strongly, and provides enough heat to keep you toasty or chilly, whatever the weather.

The two leather thrones in the front, while not providing any heating or cooling like so many higher-end luxury cars, do feel luxurious and regal. Both are power adjustable, with enough settings to allow very comfortable travel. The back seat is a leather sofa on wheels. Smooth grain leather provides a luxurious feel, while firm cushions give both comfort and support. There’s even a useful armrest tucked into the back for your passenger’s convenience, or as an attempt to separate two rowdy siblings. (And if that fails, this barge does have a giant trunk…..)