As environmentally responsible large cars go, the Chrysler 300 diesel and Falcon EcoBoost look like two pretty interesting options.
Neither are short on performance and both offer impressive economy: the 300C CRD boasts 177kW/550Nm and achieves Combined economy of 7.2 litres per 100km. The Falcon EcoBoost offers 179kW/353Nm and returns 8.2 litres.
They make for an interesting conceptual comparison.
They're not direct rivals, although they could be. Falcon EcoBoost is offered only in entry-level $48,490 specification; because Ford NZ eschews the luxury/sports-oriented versions offered in Australia, there's nothing in the lineup that reaches up to 300C thanks to eco-boost.
The 300 diesel opens at $61,990 in Limited form, but is also available in even more upmarket 300C and Luxury versions.
So if you want to confound people's expectations about large-car economy but be kind too, it looks like an early lead to Chrysler.
Here's the thing: in second-generation guise, the Chrysler 300 is not quite as good to drive as it used to be. There are remnants of Mercedes-Benz's influence (mostly in the ex-E-class platform), but when the German maker left it took that smooth turbo-diesel engine with it.
In its place is a new powerplant from Italian specialist VM Motori. It delivers on paper but isn't as refined or flexible as the previous motor.
The 300 diesel also makes do with a five-speed automatic, when the petrol versions get a new eight-speeder.
The 300 is still an adept cruiser with a lot of road presence, but the chassis has lost its edge. Ironically, while the old car looked very American it felt quite European to drive. This new one has a more European look but a very comfort-oriented gait on the road.
The Falcon just seems to get better with age. The EcoBoost engine is a marvel: linear, refined and seldom short of breath even in this large-car application. It's matched to a six-speed automatic gearbox, the steering is communicative and the chassis beautifully balanced. Almost sporting.
In terms of interior build quality, it's a different story.
The Chrysler is overwhelmingly blingy but far superior in terms of fit/finish.
The Falcon has always had a bit of a garden-shed ambience and still does. But that matters less in the entry-level model and does not detract from the fact that it is a sparkling car to drive.
The large-car market is dwindling in New Zealand and will continue to do so. But if you want to enjoy one while you can and not feel the pangs of eco-guilt, the Falcon EcoBoost is an impressive vehicle.