Chrysler: 300 News

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Old 12-15-2010, 10:31 AM
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the new Grand Cherokee has a nice interior. much nicer than the 4runner & Pathfinder.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:18 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
It's all parts bin stuff, poorly laid out. I understand the need for Chrysler at this time to rely on the parts bin, but the layout and shapes scream rental fleet. It reminds me of the poor Hyundai interiors of +5 years ago...odd shapes and materials of all kinds of finishes.


...I beg to differ on American interiors, however.....Caddy CTS has a great interior....so do some of the Chevy CUV's.

Ford clearly is the best U.S. interior designer out there.....and some of their interiors blow some import interiors away.
The CTS interior leaves a lot to be desired. The acres of piano black plastic would look like crap after about a year of ownership.

Ergonomics and materials choices usually condemn an American car to having a crappy interior. Sometimes the ergonomics are better (like the Caddy) and then they use materials that are just puzzling. Other times the materials are fine but the design is crap.

And then there's the bulk of American cars that manage to have crap design and shitty materials.

I knew someone would bring up the Jeep. It's being graded on a curve. Everyone is acting like it's Michael Johnson in Atlanta and really it's the fastest sprinter at the Special Olympics.

Is it good for a Jeep? Yes. Is it good compared to the rest of the class? Not really, no.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:21 PM
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Bottom line: as far as interiors go for U.S. Cars

Ford #1
GM #2
Chrysler #3.....and far below #2.

Granted Chrysler has had interiors for years now, and is just starting to hopefully get things turned around. They are going to take the longest to get things turned around. Let's see if Chrysler can make an excellent interior in 3-5 years. I think with Fiat, they can.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:22 PM
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Originally Posted by charliemike
The CTS interior leaves a lot to be desired. The acres of piano black plastic would look like crap after about a year of ownership.

Ergonomics and materials choices usually condemn an American car to having a crappy interior. Sometimes the ergonomics are better (like the Caddy) and then they use materials that are just puzzling. Other times the materials are fine but the design is crap.

And then there's the bulk of American cars that manage to have crap design and shitty materials.

I knew someone would bring up the Jeep. It's being graded on a curve. Everyone is acting like it's Michael Johnson in Atlanta and really it's the fastest sprinter at the Special Olympics.

Is it good for a Jeep? Yes. Is it good compared to the rest of the class? Not really, no.
You must be thinking of the 1st gen. 2nd gen is much much better



1st gen


Last edited by fsttyms1; 12-15-2010 at 12:27 PM.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:27 PM
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^^ Look at all that silver plastic. I've been in teh CTS a few times. It's not as thick as I would have expected and when it's piano black, it is very prone to scratches.

That said, I still think the design is awkward.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:29 PM
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Ive seen more/awkward silver/gray plastic in other cars. I think the design is really nice in person.
Old 12-15-2010, 12:32 PM
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Originally Posted by fsttyms1
Ive seen more silver/gray plastic in other cars. I think the design is really nice in person.
I'll freely admit, I'm a snob when it comes to interiors.

It's not terrible but it could have been so much better. And I think that ultimately, GM at the time gave them less design and manufacturing budget on the interior than the car deserved.

Now that it's proven itself, I'm hoping the Gen III CTS is the complete package because it's a good car.
Old 12-15-2010, 01:58 PM
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Originally Posted by charliemike
I'll freely admit, I'm a snob when it comes to interiors.

It's not terrible but it could have been so much better. And I think that ultimately, GM at the time gave them less design and manufacturing budget on the interior than the car deserved.

Now that it's proven itself, I'm hoping the Gen III CTS is the complete package because it's a good car.
I think at the rate they are improving it will only get better
Old 12-15-2010, 02:58 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
Bottom line: as far as interiors go for U.S. Cars

Ford #1
GM #2
Chrysler #3.....and far below #2.

Granted Chrysler has had interiors for years now, and is just starting to hopefully get things turned around. They are going to take the longest to get things turned around. Let's see if Chrysler can make an excellent interior in 3-5 years. I think with Fiat, they can.
They already are making excellent interiors as in the Grand Cherokee. The new wave of Chryslers all seem to have very competitive interiors.

All of the Chrysler brand's 2011 models, the 300, Town & Country, and 200 have some of the better interiors in their segment, and in the case of the 300 we haven't been able to actually feel it yet but we're encouraged by their progress.

Dodge's 2011 line is mostly great too, with only the Dakota, Nitro, and Caliber having Old Chrysler interiors.
Old 12-15-2010, 03:44 PM
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^^ I disagree with mostly everything you said in that post.

However the Grand Cherokee interior is quite a bit better, but still has a ways to go.
I think by the next gen Grand Cherokee, it will be excellent.

Fiat getting their hands on the Chrysler products is a good thing.
Old 12-15-2010, 04:30 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
^^ I disagree with mostly everything you said in that post.

However the Grand Cherokee interior is quite a bit better, but still has a ways to go.
I think by the next gen Grand Cherokee, it will be excellent.

Fiat getting their hands on the Chrysler products is a good thing.
How do you disagree? All the initial reviews are saying they're in a new league with their interiors. The GC's interior is lauded in almost any review I've noted.

I guess there will always be naysayers with anything, no offense.
Old 12-15-2010, 05:10 PM
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^^ I don't find most of the Chrysler interiors on par with or better than their competitors.

The only interior that is "nice" is the Durango/Gran Cherokee.

The rest are poor.....IMHO.
Old 12-15-2010, 05:34 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
^^ I don't find most of the Chrysler interiors on par with or better than their competitors.

The only interior that is "nice" is the Durango/Gran Cherokee.

The rest are poor.....IMHO.
All of the 2010s are poor other than the Ram, without a doubt. But it's the 2011s that are totally changed, other than the Nitro, Caliber, and Dakota in Dodge's case. The Challenger is updated but I suppose you would still call it poor. It's certainly not great. All 2011 Chryslers have a 100 percent different interior from the 2010. Jeep is a bit more complicated, some being updated inside and others are totally different.
Old 12-15-2010, 07:45 PM
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i think the CTS interior is fucking awesome, better than anything from Acura at this point, save for the RL.
Old 12-15-2010, 09:10 PM
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I give this car a 1 on a scale of 1 - 10. Not impressed at all. I grew up in a family that bought only Chryslers and I loved the Concordes, Intrepids and 300M's. I would by a 300M Special Edition if they still made them but I'm not a fan of the 2005+ Designs.
Old 12-16-2010, 01:15 PM
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Originally Posted by phile
i think the CTS interior is fucking awesome, better than anything from Acura at this point, save for the RL.
Smoking that bad stuff again?
Old 12-21-2010, 01:22 PM
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Amazing what a different interior color combo can do.

Looks MUCH better in black.
Old 12-21-2010, 01:34 PM
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much better indeed. only complaint i have, with all chryslers, is the gated shifter looks cheap. should at least put a leather boot around it
Old 12-21-2010, 01:37 PM
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I dont know why this thing screams "hyundai" to me. Not like thats a good or bad thing..
Old 12-21-2010, 01:45 PM
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Black interior ftw.
Old 12-21-2010, 01:46 PM
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Originally Posted by Crazy Acura
I dont know why this thing screams "hyundai" to me. Not like thats a good or bad thing..
It looks "hyundai-ish" because basically it's the Azera interior.
Old 12-21-2010, 02:41 PM
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It's not bad-it kind of gives it a space-age look.
Old 12-21-2010, 04:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
Amazing what a different interior color combo can do.

Looks MUCH better in black.
told you it was the color palette
Old 12-21-2010, 06:03 PM
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^^ black always hides the flaws :wink:
Old 12-21-2010, 08:01 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
^^ black always hides the flaws :wink:
That's racist.........
Old 12-21-2010, 08:14 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S

Amazing what a different interior color combo can do.

Looks MUCH better in black.
Looks WAY better. The light colors look like total crap, and way too much light wood. Black is much more stunning.

I dislike the silver bezel around the screen, it doesnt flow into anything, its just there.

I am disappointed after speaking with the interior designer, who said this interior was "completely" different than the Charger...In some ways it is...but everything from the climate controls down/back to the armrest is shared parts. Not that its a bad design, but I hoping for each vehicle to be completely unique. There is also something about the design that doesnt scream higher end classy sedan. Will have to see it in person.

I saw the new Charger again out here in LA on Sunday (the last stop in the hemi highway tour, after going to the kick off in detroit ) and the interior quality is there. Nice materials, nice features and options (more than you realize looking at the minimalist design) and its just solid in terms of feel/gaps/etc. And this was after the was just driven from Detroit, down the east coast and back across to the California. The vehicle had some good hard miles on it in the past 6 weeks and its still solid as ever. Good signs.

Chrysler is really trying to turn the buck...is the car isnt an entirely new model, than its getting an entirely new interior and the difference really shows.
Old 12-22-2010, 11:38 AM
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^^ Give Chrysler another 3-5 years under Fiat, and I think we will have those excellent interiors that we all wish for.
Old 12-22-2010, 11:42 AM
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^ If they make it that long.

Guess Fiats DCT tranny might make it ways to Chrysler so thats good news.
Old 12-22-2010, 02:39 PM
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Originally Posted by Crazy Acura
^ If they make it that long.

Guess Fiats DCT tranny might make it ways to Chrysler so thats good news.
You have a point....Chrysler lots in my neck of the woods are ghost towns in terms of vehicles and customers.
Old 12-22-2010, 02:51 PM
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hopefully the interior is a major step up in quality over the current s--tbox!!!
Old 01-13-2011, 12:53 PM
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2011 Chrysler 300





Old 01-13-2011, 12:55 PM
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Press release...

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Sedan Makes Its World Premiere With Head-turning American Design Combined With World-class Refinement, Craftsmanship, Innovation and PerformanceWith its elegant proportions and head-turning style, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 takes the ‘most award-winning car ever’ to new heights – combining the best of the nameplate’s more than 55-year history with world-class quietness, craftsmanship, execution and premium materials

• The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan delivers grand-touring performance and world-class ride and handling with best-in-class V-6 engine power and new second-generation E-segment chassis architecture
• Uconnect® Touch delivers the segment’s largest standard touchscreen radio (8.4-inch) and offers state-of-the-art connectivity, segment-leading Garmin® navigation with world-class functionality and SIRIUS Travel Link for real-time weather, fuel prices and more • New active safety features include adaptive-forward lighting, Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring to bring the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan’s safety and security feature list to more than 70
• The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan arrives in dealerships in Spring 2011, delivering the performance, quality, technology and refinement of the world's best sedans starting at $27,995 (including destination)

January 10, 2011 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Delivering the stylistic distinction, technological innovation, premium E-segment sedan features and quality at a legendary value, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan made its world premiere at the 2011 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), writing a new chapter in the brand’s legendary history, while setting a new course for the American brand.

“The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 is an icon of American ingenuity and symbolizes the greatness Detroit-designed vehicles offer the streets, highways and boulevards of the world,” said Olivier Francois, President and CEO — Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “From its premium materials, state-of-the-art connectivity features, new chassis architecture and best-in-class power, the all-new Chrysler 300 embodies the brand’s new attitude in every detail. And to ensure our all-new Chrysler flagship delivers more than unmistakably bold and powerful American style to our customers, the Chrysler 300 team benchmarked the craftsmanship, technology and refinement of the segment’s best sedans to deliver a new world-class quality and performance symbol at an attainable price.”

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan embodies the essence of the new Chrysler brand: delivering passion for design, people and the environment through expressive design, state-of-the-art connectivity and world-class levels of quality and efficiency.

A Collaboration of Detroit Style With World-class Craftsmanship

With more than 55 years of elegant proportions and head-turning style, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 delivers contemporary styling with design details unexpected in the segment. At the front, an all-new grille features seven deeply sculpted horizontal blades that express precision. The liquid-chrome finish of the blades and the new Chrysler wing badge provide a unique contrast against the beautifully drawn bright-chromed grille surround. Illuminating the road ahead are signature “key slot” headlamps with a scalloped lower edge. Inside, bi-functional projector headlamps are nestled next to LED-illuminated daytime running lamps, which together form a “C” shape for unmistakable on-road presence.

The profile of the all-new Chrysler 300 features the distinctive proportions of its predecessor with added design refinement for a more tailored appearance. Dramatic front-fender forms rise above the sculpted hood and are echoed by rear-quarter forms, which rise above the deck lid and travel down the vertical taillamps for an unmistakably bold signature silhouette. For improved aerodynamics and visibility, the all-new Chrysler luxury flagship’s windshield has been raked back 3 inches, while rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improve outward visibility by 15 percent.

Elevating the all-new Chrysler 300 sedan’s rear-view presence is an integrated deck-lid lip spoiler with the new Chrysler wing badge proudly centered below. Jewel-like rear taillamps feature harmonious LED illumination, while signature “light pipes” illuminate for an alluring nighttime appearance. Straddling the vertical lamps, Chrysler 300 sedan’s rear fascia integrates a chrome appliqué that seamlessly connects the taillamp elements while emphasizing the road-holding stature of the flagship sedan. Hinting at the flagship sedan’s performance are two fascia-mounted oval dual exhaust tips.

Luxurious Environment with Premium Materials and Best-in-class Comfort

Combining world-class accommodations with American style, the all-new Chrysler 300 sedan’s interior delivers expressive style, authentic materials, passenger comfort features and precise fit and finish. Substantial interior upgrades on the all-new Chrysler 300 consist of soft touch materials, premium interior trim, available heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, and real wood appliqués on the instrument panel, doors, center console and steering wheel.

Designed to exude a luxurious environment, the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan features cast-skin instrument and door panels with three-dimensional dual gloss graining for a premium appearance and suppleness. Bright chrome contrasted with satin chrome accents give the Chrysler flagship sedan the appearance of milled aluminum. For added detail, a new instrument cluster features two large gauge faces with Sapphire Blue illumination and chrome ring accents. Providing a premium and contemporary environment is an all-new Sapphire Blue LED-illuminated ambient interior lighting.

Delivering best-in-class comfort, all-new seats were engineered with premium architecture and include a serpentine (S-shaped) spring suspension, all-new front-seat backs with four-way lumbar system that actuates up/down and fore/aft, and variable density foams applied in the lower seat, seat back, and bolsters for enhanced comfort “tuning.”

Designed for Passionate Drivers Who Value Substance and Individuality

Redesigned from the ground up, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 is the freshest entry in the U.S. standard full-size vehicle segment. While the standard full-size segment share has consistently held around 4 percent for the last 3 calendar years, the all-new Chrysler 300 series sedans will re-ignite the segment delivering elegant style, grand-touring performance, best-in-class seat comfort and the precision and quality of the world’s best E-segment luxury sedans at an attainable value.

Buyers of the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan are inspired by thoughtful innovation, are passionate about driving and are interested to express their creativity and distinct personality through new experiences. The all-new Chrysler flagship sedan meets their demands by combining superior styling, confident handling, and the craftsmanship, premium details and technology that reinforce driving as a fun and pleasurable experience.

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series sedans are available in the United States in four highly equipped models: Chrysler 300, 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD. In addition, the Luxury and SafetyTec Groups provide customers with high-value content and innovative technology directly targeted for their specific needs.

Engineered with The Characteristics to Take on the World’s Best

Engineered and executed to deliver a world-class luxury sedan experience, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan’s world-class body structure and chassis deliver a level of quality, capability and refinement that rival the best E-segment competitors from Europe, Asia and North America.

Maximizing its new ultra-rigid structural design, the all-new Chrysler 300 features quietness among the best in the segment. The all-new Chrysler flagship’s unibody packages material and structural design improvements, including two premium-composite underbody panels that provide more than eight feet of acoustic insulation, dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity silencing foam, under-flush rolled-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners, all helping to absorb road noise and quiet the cabin.

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 features Chrysler Group’s new second generation E-segment architecture with redesigned front- and rear-suspension geometry delivering world-class handling, and all-new premium suspension hardware for world-class refinement. The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan’s suspension delivers the grand-touring performance expected from premium European luxury sedans, to make this all-new American flagship one of the best driving sedans in the world.

Taking its new second-generation E-segment architecture further, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD delivers precise all-weather handling, world-class refinement and a lowered ride height for a more tailored appearance. The all-new Chrysler 300C AWD features a 0.5-inch (13 mm) tighter tire-to-fender fitment, a 0.15-inch (4 mm) lowered overall ride height and larger 19-inch wheels with wider P235/55R19 all-season performance tires.

Best-in-class 292 Horsepower with All-new Aluminum 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 Engine

Engineered to provide exceptional in-town and highway efficiency and performance, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 and 300 Limited models feature the newest powertrain from the automaker – the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine. When compared to the previous V-6 engines, fuel economy is improved by up to 8 percent with EPA-ratings of 18 city /27 highway.

Delivering 292 horsepower (up 63 percent) and 260 lb.-ft. of torque (up 36 percent) compared with the previous 2.7-liter entry-level engine, the new Pentastar V-6 engine also produces 42 more horsepower (up 16 percent), and 10 lb.-ft. more torque compared to the 3.5-liter V-6.

World-class Power and Efficiency with 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 Engine and its Fuel Saver Technology

Performance has been a hallmark of the “letter series” Chrysler 300 models since 1955, and the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C builds upon that legacy with the legendary 5.7-liter HEMI® V-8 engine delivering 363 horsepower, 0-60 mph performance in less than 6 seconds and up to 25 highway mpg. In addition, the engine’s innovative Fuel Saver Technology allows for seamless transition between smooth, high-fuel-economy four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. When running in four-cylinder fuel saver mode, the engine delivers up to 20 percent improved fuel efficiency.

Most Advanced All-wheel Drive (AWD) System in the E-Segment


The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300C AWD model features a segment-exclusive active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent. No other major automotive manufacturer offers the combination of these two independent technologies. The Chrysler 300C AWD sedan’s innovative AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy while still providing the outstanding fun-to-drive performance and handling inherent in RWD vehicles.

World-class Precision, Execution and Quality Deliver Long-term Performance and Refinement


Chrysler’s commitment to providing customers with a new level of quality and craftsmanship started at the very beginning of the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan’s development.

The Chrysler 300 sedans were benchmarked against best-in-class vehicles from Europe, Asia and North America to ensure world-class refinement for attributes such as material quality, interior quietness, seat comfort, and smooth and responsive handling characteristics. Chrysler engineers evaluated more than 320 physical characteristics of benchmark vehicles – including aspirational vehicles priced tens of thousands of dollars more than the all-new Chrysler 300 series sedans.

The 2011 Chrysler 300 was one of the first Chrysler Group vehicles to be evaluated by the company’s Perceived Quality team at the digital design phase. The Perceived Quality team evaluates vehicles from the perspective of the most discriminating customer and works with designers and engineers to enhance the fit-and-finish, surface quality, material options and even the sound quality of moveable parts like doors and storage bins.

Beginning with the all-new vehicles developed for the 2011 model year, Chrysler Group has increased the number of reliability testing miles by 50 percent. Chrysler engineers tested the 300 series sedans for more than 7 million miles during its reliability and durability evaluation in the company’s scientific labs, at the proving grounds and on public roads in various climates.

State-of-the-art Connectivity with Segment’s Largest Touchscreen Infotainment Center

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 sedan’s Uconnect® Touch integrates world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure.

From touchscreen navigation to dual-zone climate controls, to the ability to check fuel prices and personalize convenience features, Uconnect Touch makes life in the all-new Chrysler flagship sedan an excellent experience for the driver and passengers. Chrysler 300 and 300 Limited models come standard with the Uconnect Touch 8.4 model, featuring easy-to-use controls to provide class-leading technology. With its massive 8.4-inch touchscreen display and user-friendly touch-key categories, information on the Uconnect Touch is clearly displayed and connecting and controlling personal mobile devices is simple.

The premium Uconnect Touch 8.4N model is available on the Chrysler 300 Limited and standard on the Chrysler 300C and 300C AWD models and includes more customer-convenient amenities than ever before, including the integration of segment-leading Garmin® navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link with real-time fuel prices, movie listings, sports updates and weather.

All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Offers More Than 70 Advanced Safety and Security Features

The all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 features more than 70 safety and security features, including standard Keyless Enter-N-Go and electronic stability control (ESC) with segment-exclusive Ready Alert Braking and Rain Brake Support safety features to improve overall vehicle handling and performance.

Chrysler brand’s signature SafetyTec Group is available on the 2011 Chrysler 300 Limited, 300C and 300C AWD models and packages many first-time-available features including adaptive-forward lighting (AFL), high-intensity discharge (HID) projector high and low-beams with automatic headlamp leveling, Forward Collision Warning (FCW) with adaptive-cruise control (ACC), Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, ParkSense® front and rear park assist system, LED-illuminated rear fog lamps, exterior mirrors with supplemental turn signals and approach lamp (300 Limited adds HomeLink universal transceiver, rain-sensing wipers and SmartBeam® headlamps to the package group).

In addition, standard front-row reactive head restraints, standard full-length side-curtain air bags, driver’s knee bag and standard front seat-mounted side-thorax air bags offer enhanced occupant protection to passengers in the event of a collision.

World-class Manufacturing (WCM) Transforms Brampton to Launch the All-new Chrysler 300 Sedans

For the Brampton plant, the launch of the Chrysler brand’s all-new flagship sedan had to be nothing less than world class.

In preparation for the launch of the Chrysler 300 series sedans, employees at Chrysler Group LLC’s Brampton Assembly Plant, located outside of Toronto, began transforming the facility as part of World Class Manufacturing (WCM), an extensive and thorough process to restore all facilities to their original and maximum functionality.

While Chrysler Group implemented manufacturing programs in the past, what makes WCM different is that it fully engages people in eliminating waste and empowers them to take ownership of the process.

To further improve the quality of the all-new Chrysler 300 sedans, a new Metrology Center was installed at Brampton. Used throughout the Fiat manufacturing system, the $20 million, 35,000 square-foot facility reflects the company’s heightened dedication to quality. Brampton joins Jefferson North Assembly Plant as one of the first Chrysler Group facilities and one of only a few Canadian automotive manufacturing facilities to utilize such technology.

The Metrology Center employs more than 30 people, who are responsible for measurement and validation of the body geometry. The tools within the Metrology Center are used to verify the capability of the vehicle’s entire sheet metal structure to the smallest of tolerances, as small as a human hair. The aim is to identify possible deviations between the product and the process.
Old 01-13-2011, 01:01 PM
  #273  
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I'm a big fan of Acura's black "bowling ball" trim, and any other black-colored trim. Just not a big fan of wood, except in strictly-luxury cars. Most cars with sporting intentions shouldn't have wood IMO, I mean it's fine as an option, I guess. But wood in an M3, IS-F, or SRT8...

I know some will dispute the 300's target demographic, but you get the point.
Old 01-28-2011, 12:12 AM
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1st impressions:

http://www.autoweek.com/article/2011...IEWS/110129879

What is it?

The first-generation Chrysler 300 was all about the in-your-face bold styling, but this second-gen car is all about substance. This car has a much more refined presence, style and ride. With the car offered in V6 or V8 models, RWD or AWD, there would seem to be a model for anyone looking for a full-size sedan.

What is it like to drive?

The 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 will surprise and delight folks. While we love the 300C and the 5.7-liter Hemi that makes 363 hp and 394 lb-ft of torque, our choice for overall refinement, fuel economy and not to mention going easier on the wallet is the V6. Even driving in the rolling hills southeast of San Diego near the U.S.-Mexico border, the V6 easily accelerated to triple-digit speeds--going uphill.

Do I want it?

This is the most luxurious, most quiet interior Chrysler has produced. With the Fiat takeover of Chrysler, it was decided the company's flagship had to stand apart, and all involved took the job seriously--everything from the giant 8.4-inch info display in the center stack to the analog clock in the top center of the dash. Rolling along at highway speeds, the cockpit is whisper-quiet, making the 300 interior a pleasant place to be.

Chrysler engineers went to great lengths to make the cabin quiet, installing two composite underbody panels that provide more than eight feet of acoustic insulation. Plus, the car has a dual-pane acoustic windshield and front-door side glass, body-cavity-silencing foam, underflush roll-framed doors with triple seals and acoustic wheel-well liners to absorb road noise.

We sampled both the cloth and leather seats, and both are comfortable and supportive. The dash and door panels are fitted with soft-touch material that looks and feels good. The wood is real, and the twin-bezel instrument cluster sparkles like jewels.

While the exterior styling may not have the same visual impact of the previous car, this new car is a leap forward for Chrysler in terms of luxury and refinement.

2011 Chrysler 300

On Sale: Now

Base Price: $27,995

Drivetrain: 3.6-liter, 292-hp, 260-lb-ft Pentastar V6; RWD, five-speed automatic with AutoStick

Curb Weight: 3,961 lb

0-60 MPH: N/A

Fuel Economy (EPA): 20 mpg
Old 01-28-2011, 12:40 AM
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The very first thing I'd want to do is figure out how to remove that silver trim around the radio cluster and have it painted piano black. It's incongruous and distracting.

Otherwise, in black it doesn't look half bad.
Old 01-28-2011, 01:35 AM
  #276  
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I just hate those silver thingys on the rear end..

otherwise, it looks pretty good to me
Old 01-28-2011, 01:50 AM
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Still a 5-speed auto? I assume that this is technically a MMC.... does Fiat/Chrysler have something in the pipeline, like a dual-clutch tranny? The Pentastar is a nice improvement over the old engine though
Old 01-28-2011, 08:03 AM
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This is a FMC. There's another thread that mentioned that most of the larger Chryco models will go to an 9 sp ZF AT.

Last edited by biker; 01-28-2011 at 08:09 AM.
Old 01-28-2011, 11:49 AM
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Refresh in a couple of years should yield a 9 speed auto and better MPG.
Old 01-28-2011, 03:12 PM
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Originally Posted by Moog-Type-S
Refresh in a couple of years should yield a 9 speed auto and better MPG.
I believe for 2012 it gets an 8spd.

The 9spd are going to end up in the FWD applications.

I could be wrong, but thats what I remember reading.


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