The new Chrysler 300 luxury saloon has broken cover ahead of being officially unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show this month.
Boasting a sophisticated new look courtesy of its new seven-blade grille, ‘key slot’ projector headlamps, LED daytime running lamps, and new front bumper, the new Chrysler 300 is more even imposing and distinctive than its iconic predecessor. The rear of the 300 is completely revised, too, with signature ‘light pipe’ LED tail lamps, a redesigned rear bumper with dual exhaust outlets, and a new boot lid with an integrated spoiler.
Chrysler points out that the 300's new style isn't purely an aesthetic enhancement. For improved aerodynamics and visibility the windscreen has been more steeply raked, while the rolled-framed doors and thinner roof pillars improve outward visibility by 15 per cent. A new dual-panel panoramic sunroof bathes the cabin in light while the interior itself has been completely redesigned to ensure it offers exceptional style, comfort, and quality.
High-tech plastics combine with liquid chrome accents to give Chrysler's flagship cabin a uniquely upmarket finish, while the sapphire-blue dial illumination and blue LED ambient lighting ensure the interior is no less impressive at night. A new Uconnect® Touch infotainment system also debuts in the 2011 Chrysler 300, with a massive 8.4 inch touchscreen display to control everything from the satellite navigation to the dual-zone climate controls.
Every new Chrysler 300 will be built in Canada but European versions will have a slightly different appearance and specification to North American models.
The right-hand drive version will retain the Chrysler 300 name but no decision has been made as to whether it should carry the 300 or Thema badge in mainland Europe.
While other markets will launch the 300/Thema with V6 and V8 petrol power in 2011, Fiat Group Automobiles Ireland is awaiting the debut of the revised 3.0-litre turbo-diesel engine before deciding on a launch date for Ireland.
