Hemi V8-powered Chrysler 300C marks end of 70-year nameplate

MANILA: With the 2023 Chrysler 300C — powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi engine with 485 horsepower — the American carmaker will celebrate the nearly 70-year history of its 300 models.

The Hemi-powered 2023 Chrysler 300C marks the end of an era: production of the Chrysler 300 will cease after the 2023 model year. This special edition model is based on the nameplate’s iteration in 2011 which also saw an update in 2015.

The Chrysler 300 has stood for enduring American luxury and performance since its 1955 debut and 2005 rebirth.

“We’re celebrating the Chrysler 300 and its iconic legacy in the automotive world,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler Brand Chief Executive Officer. “The Chrysler 300 changed the automotive world in so many ways, and we will carry that spirit of ingenuity forward as we transform Chrysler with a fully electrified future and breakthrough customer experiences.”

Only 2,000 of the Hemi-powered 2023 Chrysler 300C vehicles will be sold in the United States, with 200 more accessible in Canada.

The final version of America's big, bold sedan is even bigger and bolder thanks to the 6.4-liter V8 HEMI engine, which produces 485 horsepower and 644Nm of torque and propels the 300C from 0 to 100kph in just 4.3 seconds. The 2023 Chrysler 300C's quarter-mile time is 12.4 seconds, and its top speed is 257kph.

The TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission, which has shift times of 160 milliseconds, maximizes fuel efficiency while ensuring maximum performance from the 392-cu.-in. naturally aspirated engine.

Red four-piston Brembo brakes, a 3.09 limited-slip differential, active damping suspension, and black, rounded exhaust tips that complement an active exhaust system that produces a powerful, throaty sound are further performance characteristics.

The 300C rides on 20-by-9-inch forged wheels with all-season performance tires, and a new version of the tri-color 300C insignia adorns the grille and rear decklid. In addition to the black headlamp and tail lamp bezels, the exterior features black chrome accents on the grille and lower fascia. The 300C comes in three exterior color options: Gloss Black, Velvet Red, and Bright White.

The new 300C logo is engraved on the front seats' black Laguna leather, which is further enhanced by special silver stitching. Along with carbon fiber and Piano Black accents on the inside bezels, silver stitching is also seen on the doors and leather instrument panel.

The Hemi-powered 2023 Chrysler 300C packs a premium 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, comes standard.

Advanced brake assist, Lane Departure Warning Plus, and Full Speed Collision Warning Plus are just a few of the standard safety features, while comfort features include a heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated front seats.

The 2023 Chrysler 300C comes fully equipped with a U.S. manufacturer’s suggested retail price of US $55,000 (P3.1 million).

In 1955, the Chrysler 300 was introduced. The hardtop contains a 300-horsepower HEMI V-8 with solid valve lifters and dual four-barrel carburetors. It was the most powerful full-size car in the world, and so the new Chrysler 300 dominated NASCAR.

Rear-wheel drive was brought back in 2005 with the launch of the Chrysler 300 series, which includes the 300C model with a 5.7-liter Hemi engine and 345 horsepower. MotorTrend magazine selected the new 300 as its Car of the Year at the time.

The 6.1-liter Hemi engine in the 425-horsepower Chrysler 300C SRT8 added even more power, and it has a low 5-second zero-to-100kph time.

All-wheel-drive versions, the "blacked out" 300S, the 300C, and 300C SRT8 Touring models, which were made available outside of North America, are additional 300 vehicles from the model years 2005 to 2010.

Photos from Chrysler

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