Motor Trend: 2002 Chrysler 300M Special

The most prolific use of sequential automatic transmission shifting technology comes from Chrysler. There are perhaps a dozen different Dodge and Chrysler branded models available with the company's AutoStick four-speed automatic. And while AutoStick doesn't pack much high technology, it works well, and adds elements of fun and control to the drive.

AutoStick is all about the floor-mounted shift lever; there are no paddles, buttons, or driver-selectable shift modes. In Drive, AutoStick works the same as any other conventional automatic. Pull the stick into the manual gate, then it's as simple as popping it to the right for upshifts and left for downshifts. Shifts are clean and reasonably quick, though more gear ratios would add to the fun. AutoStick lets you have most any gear you want and won't downshift when you don't want it to. It will, however, upshift right at redline, as opposed to just holding the gear.

We sure liked the wrapper this particular AutoStick came in. The 300M is a stylish and roomy domestic sport sedan, especially for the money. The Special package adds garlic in the form of great looking 18-in. rolling stock, subtle body trim, HID headlights, a 360-watt Infinity II audio system, faux carbon interior trim, and a half-inch-lower ride height. And it's not just all looks either: Dual exhausts add a terrific sound and 5 hp, while a lower final-drive ratio fortifies off-the-line acceleration. It works, too, as the Special outruns the standard 300M by nearly four-tenths of a second 0-60--a substantial improvement for a somewhat heavy vehicle.

You won't confuse AutoStick for an Aston Martin's six-speed manutranny, but it's still a lot more fun than just plain old Drive.