The 2011 Chrysler 300 has been given a very thorough facelift and although it no longer sports the gold crest, Chrysler’s name is still spelled out and surrounded by a pair of wings atop the front grille frame.
Predictably, the overall shape is similar to its 300C-labelled predecessor but up-front the newcomer has Chrysler’s new grille and LED infused headlamps. While the nose treatement has been toned down, with the previous “egg-crate” grille being replaced by a more subtle single-frame item to give the new car an almost Bentley-esque appearance, the wheelarches are more prominent.
Although many of the cabin fittings are carried over from the previous car – think HVAC controls – there are some far reaching changes, contributing to an almost completely new look for the facia design. The instruments have been modernised and the revised centre hangdown section now features a large info-tainment display. Chrysler also has upgraded the materials in the cabin, while sapphire-blue LED ambient lighting, wood trim and optional heated and ventilated Napa leather seats add to the premium feel. Apparently, Chrysler has paid a great deal of attention to in-cabin refinment – the most important of which is the fitment of two composite underbody panels comprising over 8 feet of acoustic insulation and a more contoured underbody that reduces airflow-related noise.
Two engines are available for the US market; a 3,6-litre V6 producing 218 kW and 353 N.m of torque and a 5,7-litre HEMI V8 that delivers 276 kW and 536 N.m of torque. Both are mated with a five-speed automatic transmission which sends power to the rear wheels. All-wheel drive will be optional in the US market.
The 300 will be available in South Africa in 2012 but the engine line-up is yet to be confirmed.
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Paul
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Miguel
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Attie
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chrysler 300 srt8