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Although Chrysler is known as a higher-end brand, it has fallen short in refinement and performance compared to foreign luxury brands in the past. But that is all about to change. Thanks to the new 300 Luxury Series offered for the 2012 Chrysler 300 models, foreign luxury brands might just get a run for their money. According to a press release we found on Autoblog, the new upgrades for the domestic luxury cars include things that even Jaguar and Mercedes-Benz might have trouble competing with.
The new 300 Luxury Series is being offered on both the Chrysler 300 and 300C. Aimed at giving domestic luxury car buyers more prestigious options in their vehicle amenities, this series will add upgrades to both the interior and exterior of the car.
The interior of the special Luxury Series cars will be treated to Poltrona Frau and Nappa leather components, 12-way power-adjustable heated and cooled front seats, heated and cooled rear seats, and a heated steering wheel.
The interiors will also feature black or two-toned Mochachino leather upholstery choices, Natural Pore Mocha wood trim, 8.4-inch infotainment systems, ambient lighting, LED details and memory equipped mirrors, steering wheel and pedals.
The exterior of the Luxury Series 300s will feature platinum chrome mirror caps, door handle accents and fascia accents, as well as grille surround and mesh grille. The new series also comes with special 20-inch polished face wheels for the rear-wheel drive cars and 19-inch wheels for the all-wheel drive cars.
Upping the performance of the Luxury Series is the first paddle-shifted eight-speed automatic transmission offered on domestic vehicles. This transmission will offer drivers three more gear ratios and smoother shifts for better drivability, as well as up to a 17 percent increase in fuel efficiency. Matched with the special fuel-efficient 292hp 3.6-liter aluminum V6 engine, this luxury technology gives the Luxury Series Chrysler 300 an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 31mpg on the highway.
In addition to the fuel-efficient V6, a 363hp 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine with Fuel Save Technology will be available through the 300C model. Both all-wheel and rear-wheel drive configurations are available with either engine.
“The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Edition is more than just our flagship car, it’s the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC in the press release.
“It’s fitted with a paddle shifting eight-speed transmission found only on cars twice its cost, dressed with the highest grade Italian Poltrona Frau leather and finished with hand sanded real wood found only in exotic cars – all to deliver a surprising combination of hyper craftsmanship, style, technology and ‘uber’ best-in-class fuel economy at 31 mpg.”
While the new 300 Luxury Series cars feature top-of-the-line technology and amenities usually limited to much higher price brackets, the new Chryslers start at just $40,145. Compare that to foreign brands and luxury car buyers might be taking a much needed second look at the new Chrysler Luxury Series.
