Chrysler 300

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Chrysler 300
Overview
ManufacturerChrysler[a]
Also calledLancia Thema (Europe; 2011–2014)
ProductionFebruary 2004[1]– December 2023
Model years2005–2023
Body and chassis
ClassFull-size car (E)[2]
LayoutFront engine, rear-wheel drive / all-wheel drive
Chronology
PredecessorFor Chrysler 300:
Chrysler 300M
Chrysler Concorde
Chrysler Intrepid (Canada)
For Lancia Thema:
Lancia Thesis (Europe)

The Chrysler 300 is a full-size car[3][4][5][6] manufactured and marketed by Stellantis North America and its predecessor companies as a four-door sedan and station wagon in its first generation (model years 2005–2010) and solely as a four-door sedan in its second generation (model years 2011–2023).

The second generation 300 was marketed as the Chrysler 300C in the United Kingdom and Ireland and as the Lancia Thema in the remainder of Europe.[7]

Background[edit]

The Chrysler 300 continues a tradition of large front engine, rear-wheel drive V8-powered luxury sedans the company has offered, starting in the 1940s with the Chrysler Saratoga and Chrysler New Yorker, followed by the Chrysler Windsor, Chrysler Newport and the Chrysler Cordoba, with the last rear wheel drive sedan, the Chrysler Fifth Avenue that ended production in 1989.

When the company began operations in 1925, the Chrysler Six was entered as a roadster in the 1925 24 Hours of Le Mans where it finished the race, and in 1926, the Chrysler Imperial started the tradition of luxury and performance products.[8] Starting in 1955, the Imperial became its own luxury brand and offered the Imperial Newport along with the Imperial Crown. The original Chrysler FirePower Hemi engine powered the Cunningham C-5R, a special racecar, and finished the 1952 Le Mans, 1953 Le Mans, and 1954 Le Mans endurance races, as well as the 1953 12 Hours of Sebring.[9]

First generation (2005–2010)[edit]

First generation
Overview
Also calledChrysler 300C
ProductionJanuary 2004–2010
Model years2005–2010[10]
AssemblyBrampton, Ontario, Canada (Brampton Assembly)[11]
Graz, Austria (Magna Steyr) (2005–2010)
Beijing, China (Beijing Benz) (2006–2009)[12]
DesignerRalph Gilles (2000)
Freeman Thomas (2000)
Tom Gale (2000)
Body and chassis
Body style4-door notchback sedan
5-door station wagon (not in North America)
PlatformChrysler LX platform
RelatedDodge Charger
Dodge Challenger
Dodge Magnum
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211)
Powertrain
Engine2.7 L EER V6
3.5 L EGG V6
5.7 L EZB Hemi V8
6.1 L ESF Hemi V8
3.0 L OM642 turbodiesel V6
Transmission4-speed 42RLE automatic
5-speed W5A580 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase120.0 in (3,048 mm)[13]
126.0 in (3,200 mm) (Executive Series)
Length197.8 in (5,024 mm)
Width74.1 in (1,882 mm)
Height58.4 in (1,483 mm)
SRT8: 57.9 in (1,471 mm)
Curb weight3,721–4,046 lb (1,688–1,835 kg)[14][15]

The 300 debuted as a concept at the 2003 New York International Auto Show with styling by Ralph Gilles and production started in January 2004 for the 2005 model year. The Chrysler 300 was designed as a modern interpretation of the 1955 Chrysler C-300 (and the letter series Chryslers that followed), featuring a large grille, long hood and low roofline that was prominent on those vehicles. The styling retained many elements of the 1998 Chrysler Chronos concept car, such as chrome interior accents and tortoiseshell finishing on the steering wheel and shifter knob. It was the last Chrysler vehicle designed under Tom Gale, upon his retirement from DaimlerChrysler in December 2000.[16][17] It shares a nameplate with the 1957 300C letter series coupe and convertible.

The Chrysler 300 is based on the rear-wheel drive Chrysler LX platform with Chrysler executives confirming that Chrysler engineers were sent to Germany to study the upcoming E-Class and as such, structural elements of the car's foundation such as the toe board, safety cage architecture, as well as the load-path philosophy ending up being derived from the design(s) utilized by then-partner, Mercedes-Benz[18] Shared and or derived components from Mercedes-Benz included: the 3.0L OM642 turbo-diesel V6 used in overseas markets, the rear suspension cradle and 5-link independent rear suspension design derived from the E-Class, a double-wishbone front suspension design with short-and-long arm front suspension geometry derived from the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220). Additionally, the 5-Speed NAG1 W5A580 transmission, rear differential, driveshaft, ESP & ABS systems, steering system, the CAN Bus electrical architecture, and cabin electronics including other electronic and engine modules were derived from Mercedes-Benz components. Further, switchgear such as the cruise control and turn signal combination stalk, seat controls, seat frames, HVAC system(s), and the wiring harness were utilized from Mercedes-Benz components. Later model years also feature a Mercedes-Benz-derived laser key ignition system in place of the traditional metal key. The AWD models also benefited from the use of Mercedes-Benz's 4MATIC system, including transfer case components.

Model range[edit]

Base[edit]

The basic 300 includes 17-inch wheels, wheel covers, four-wheel disc brakes, a single disc CD player, an auxiliary input jack, a power driver seat, and a 4-Speed (42RLE) automatic transmission. It uses a 2,736 cc (2.736 L; 167.0 cu in) EER V6 making 190 hp (142 kW). In Canada, it comes standard with the Touring model's 3,518 cc (3.5 L; 214.7 cu in) V6 engine. The vehicle comes with standard rear-wheel drive and available all-wheel drive. The basic 300 model was renamed to LX for 2008 and remains the code name for the platform.[19]

Touring[edit]

The Touring model uses a 3,518 cc (3.5 L; 214.7 cu in) V6, producing 250 hp (186 kW) and 250 lb⋅ft (339 N⋅m) of torque, either a 4 or 5-speed transmission depending on the year and drive configuration, and comes with 17-inch aluminum wheels, AM/FM radio with CD player and auxiliary audio jack, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), remote keyless entry, leather-trimmed seats, and Sirius Satellite Radio. This model was renamed Touring Plus for the 2009 and 2010 model years.[19]

Limited[edit]

The Limited model included the Touring model's 3.5 L V6 engine, generating 250 hp (186 kW) and 250 lb⋅ft (339 N⋅m) and either a 4- or 5-speed transmission depending on the year and drive configuration. Additional features included 18-inch chrome-clad aluminum road wheels and anti-roll bars.

300C[edit]

Chrysler 300C

The top-of-the-line 300C version uses a 5.7 L (345 cu in) Hemi V8.[19] Using the Multi-Displacement System (MDS), this engine can run on four cylinders when less power is needed to reduce total fuel consumption. The USEPA-rated fuel consumption of the 300C is: 15 miles per US gallon (16 L/100 km; 18 mpg‑imp) city, and 23 miles per US gallon (10 L/100 km; 28 mpg‑imp) highway. When all eight cylinders are needed, the 300C can produce 340 hp (254 kW) and 390 lb⋅ft (529 N⋅m) of torque. It uses a five-speed automatic transmission and comes standard with 18-inch chrome-clad alloy wheels, Chrysler's MyGIG Infotainment System in 2008 as well as Sirius Satellite Radio and Backseat Television in 2008.

The Hemi cylinder heads necessitate the use of a double rocker arm shaft configuration, with a cam-in-block, overhead valve (OHV) pushrod design. There are two spark plugs per cylinder to promote efficient fuel/air mixture burn and thereby reduce emissions. In 2009–2010 power output was increased to 360 hp (268 kW; 365 PS).

SRT-8[edit]

Chrysler 300C SRT-8

The SRT-8 model was equipped with a 6.1 L Hemi engine producing 425 hp (317 kW; 431 PS) at 6,200 rpm and 420 lb⋅ft (569 N⋅m) of torque at 4,800 rpm. The SRT8 can accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 4.9 seconds.[20]

SRT Design[edit]

In 2008 Chrysler began producing the SRT Design, which combined the 300C CRD engine with all the fully loaded refinements and sports setup of the SRT 8. This model was predominantly used in the European market.[21]

Other variants[edit]

Station wagon[edit]

2010 Chrysler 300C Touring

Chrysler marketed the 300C in Europe, Australia, South America, the Middle East, and Japan as both a four-door notchback sedan and a five-door station wagon. The five-door station wagon was marketed as the 300C Touring (not to be confused with the North American notchback sedan's "Touring" trim level), which shared its sheet metal aft of the C-pillar and wheel designs with the Dodge Magnum.

The base Chrysler 300 was not marketed in Europe. All cars came with the 300C body style/interior and a choice of either V6 diesel or V8 gasoline engines. The economical V6 diesel, sourced from Mercedes-Benz, was optional in Europe. All 300C Touring models, along with European 300C sedans and right-hand drive models were assembled by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, beginning in June 2005.[22] Steyr insisted on upgrading suspension components to suit European tastes. Dodge Charger/Magnum wheels with Chrysler center caps were used instead of the distinct wheels used on Canada-assembled models. The five-door station wagon body style was discontinued after the first generation.

Diesel (2006–2011)[edit]

In Europe and Australia, the 300C was available with a Mercedes-Benz 3.0 L diesel V6 engine (internal code OM642) rated 218 PS (160 kW; 215 hp) at 3800 rpm and 376 lb⋅ft (510 N⋅m) of torque at 1600 rpm. Fuel economy for the 300C diesel is rated at 26.2 mpg‑US (9.0 L/100 km; 31.5 mpg‑imp) city, 42.8 mpg‑US (5.50 L/100 km; 51.4 mpg‑imp) highway, and 34.9 mpg‑US (6.74 L/100 km; 41.9 mpg‑imp) on the combined cycle. It can accelerate from 0–60 mph (97 km/h) in 7.9 seconds while the top speed remains the same as the gasoline V6 (140 mph (225 km/h)).

The 2008 UK models included the 300C SRT-Design model in sedan or Touring body, which included SRT 20-inch alloy wheels and wheel arch spats, chrome mesh grille, MyGIG satellite navigation, SRT-8 steering wheel, SRT-8 leather sports seats, and carbon fiber interior details.[23]

ASC Helios 300[edit]

ASC created a convertible version of the Chrysler 300C, dubbed the ASC Helios 300, and unveiled it at the North American International Auto Show in early 2005. Despite rumors, Chrysler confirmed that the vehicle would not be produced.[24][25]

Executive Series 300[edit]

The Walter P. Chrysler Executive Series 300 was an extended wheelbase version shown at the 2006 New York Auto Show. It added 6 inches (152 mm) to the rear passenger compartment. The wheelbase was 126 in (3,200 mm) for this edition.[26]

Heritage Edition 300C The Chrysler 300C Heritage Edition debuted in 2006 and was a performance-oriented trim that used the 5.7 Hemi and had styling cues from the Chrysler 300 "letter series" of the 1950s and the 1960s.[27]

Beijing Auto T8[edit]

The Beijing Auto T8 was a Chinese limousine version of the Chrysler 300, Beijing Auto produced two prototypes. The T8 got a new Cadillac-style nose and a new rear end; however, the rest of the design remained unchanged from the standard Chrysler 300.[28] The only changes to the interior were a revised steering wheel with an updated logo.[28] Beijing Auto did not have the right to continue to use the platform(s) or engine(s) necessary to produce the vehicle. Therefore, the continuation of the T8's development and production prospects came to an end in 2009.

Reception and legacy[edit]

In regard to driving characteristics, the 300 was generally well-received. The ride of the car was described as "steady, comfortable, and a study in control"[29] and it was stated that the car drove "a lot like a Benz" due to the heavy use of German engineering and involvement of Mercedes-Benz in the development process during Chrysler and Daimler's partnership.[29] The car was also described as, "impressively stable at high speed," by journalists at speeds even in excess of 150+ MPH on German autobahns, on par with other German sedans of the era. Again, such attributes could be attributed to the car's German underpinnings. However, a real weakness in the car's driving experience was "numb steering," which many journalists claimed made the car feel "capable, but disconnected."[30]

In the UK, the BBC's Top Gear team described the 300C as "something different with a bit of kitsch gangster cool". They praised the spacious and well-equipped interior, even calling it a "re-shelled German car with an American body," and the low price while criticizing the quality of certain materials, numb steering, and low engine torque of the V6 models. [30] The first generation model was popular with British buyers who regarded it as the "poor man's Bentley".[31]

In the US, the 300C enjoyed a wave of popularity in the mid-2000s, aided by celebrity owners (including US President Barack Obama,[32]) and appearances in music videos. In 2004, rapper Snoop Dogg famously called then-Chrysler CEO, Dieter Zetsche, asking for his own 300C; he later appeared in a commercial for the car alongside Lee Iacocca.[33] The 300C was ranked No. 12 in a Complex.com article, "The 25 Most Iconic Hip-Hop Cars", due to its popularity in many hip-hop music videos following its introduction.[34] Chrysler 300 designer Ralph Gilles reflected on the vehicle's success in 2008, saying that the "300 turned out to be a bit of an icon for Chrysler".[35]

Awards[edit]

The 300C was the 2005 Motor Trend Car of the Year.[36] It was on Car and Driver's Ten Best list for both 2005 and 2006.[37][38] Automobile Magazine named it Automobile of the Year.[39]

It also won the North American Car of the Year award.[40] It was voted Canadian Car of the Year by automobile journalists as the Best New Luxury Car.[41]

Receiving numerous other recognitions during its debut year, it was promoted as being one of the most awarded new cars ever.[42] The 300C was also included in the finalists for 2005 World Car of the Year, but final points total put it in fifth place equal to the BMW 1-series.[43]

Second generation (LD; 2011–2023)[edit]

Second generation (LD)
Pre-facelift
Overview
Also calledLancia Thema (Europe; 2011–2014)
Chrysler 300C
ProductionDecember 2010[44]–December 9, 2023
Model years2011–2023
AssemblyBrampton, Canada (Brampton Assembly)[11]
DesignerLou Gasevski
Body and chassis
Body style4-door notchback sedan
PlatformChrysler LD platform
RelatedDodge Charger
Dodge Challenger
Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211)
Powertrain
Engine3.0 L Pentastar V6 (China)
3.6 L Pentastar V6
5.7 L Hemi V8
6.4 L Hemi V8
3.0 L VM A630 turbodiesel V6
Transmission5-speed 5G-Tronic automatic
8-speed 8HP45 automatic[45]
8-speed 8HP70 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase120.2 in (3,053 mm)
Length198.6 in (5,044 mm)
Width75.1 in (1,908 mm)
Height58.4 in (1,483 mm)

A redesigned 300 was introduced in 2011 as a four-door sedan. However, the core platform of the car, now called the 'LD' while updated, was still closely related to the original 'LX' platform. While the suspension was revised, the front suspension is still derived from the design of the Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W220) and the 5-link rear design from the Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W211). Production ended on December 8, 2023.[46]

Exterior design[edit]

Chrysler 300 Limited (US; pre-facelift)

Exterior changes included revised sheet metal, thinner roof pillars, a more raked windshield, bi-xenon HID projector headlights, LED daytime running strips within the headlights, new taillights with LEDs and a horizontally slotted front grille with an updated version of the Chrysler winged brand emblem. Options included a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and 20-inch polished aluminum wheels.

Variants[edit]

Lancia Thema

The 2011 model was offered in Touring, Limited, 300C, and 300C AWD trim levels. Touring and Limited trims included the Pentastar V6, while the 300C line offered a standard 5.7 L Hemi.[47]

A new 300C Executive Series luxury trim level was introduced alongside a new 300S trim at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. The sport-themed 300S featured black treatment for the grille and headlamps, 20-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black painted pockets, 10-speaker Beats by Dr. Dre sound system,[48] and steering wheel mounted paddle shifters.[49] The Executive/Luxury Series was also sold in Europe, rebranded as the Lancia Thema from 2011 until 2014.

For the 2021 model year, the 300C and Limited trim levels were dropped, leaving the Touring, Touring L, and 300S, which included the previous year's Red S Appearance Package as standard.[50]

SRT[edit]

Chrysler 300 SRT-8 (Australia)

An SRT version was unveiled at the 2011 New York International Auto Show, featuring the 6.4 L 392 Hemi V8 engine.

The 6.4 L 392 Hemi engine is also used in other Chrysler Group SRT vehicles such as the Dodge Charger and Challenger. With 470 hp (350 kW), the new 300 SRT can go from 0 to 60 mph (97 km/h) in the low 4-second range.[51]

In addition to the increase in power, the SRT receives specific exterior trim including a lower front fascia, large exhaust tips, body-color instead of chrome trim, and 20-inch (508 mm) aluminum wheels. The car also gets a lowered, sportier suspension setup and a large Brembo brake package.[52]

The 300 SRT (or SRT8) was discontinued for the 2015 model year in the United States, but is still sold in Australia and the Middle East. Many Australian police departments use the 300 SRT as a patrol/pursuit vehicle. The 300 SRT was sold in left and right-hand drive abroad.[53] After a decade of falling sales in Australia, production of right-hand-drive versions ended in 2021.[54]

Powertrain[edit]

The predecessors' 2.7 and 3.5 L engines were replaced with Chrysler's new 3.6 L Pentastar V6 engine producing 292 hp (218 kW) and 260 lb⋅ft (353 N⋅m) of torque. The 5.7 L Hemi V8 engine remained available with 363 hp (271 kW). A 3.0 L VM Motori V6 turbodiesel is also available in Europe, and Australia.[55]

Beginning with the 2012 model year, all V6 models were equipped with the 8-speed 845RE Chrysler Torqueflite automatic transmission, licensed from ZF Friedrichshafen.[56]

Chrysler
Model Engine Displacement Power at rpm Torque at rpm Years
Touring 3.6 V6 Pentastar 3,604 cc (219.9 cu in) 296 PS (218 kW; 292 hp) at 6,350 rpm 352 N⋅m (260 lbf⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm 2011–2023
Limited
300S[57] 3.6 V6 Pentastar 3,604 cc (219.9 cu in) 304 PS (224 kW; 300 hp) 358 N⋅m (264 lbf⋅ft) at 4,800 rpm 2011–2023
300C and 300S (2012) 5.7 V8 Hemi 5,654 cc (345.0 cu in) 368 PS (271 kW; 363 hp) at 5,150 rpm 534 N⋅m (394 lb⋅ft) at 4,250 rpm 2011–2023
300 SRT-8 6.4L 392 Hemi V8 engine 6,430 cc (392 cu in) 477 PS (351 kW; 470 hp) at 6,000 rpm 637 N⋅m (470 lb⋅ft) at 4,300 rpm 2012–2014
300C (2023) 6.4L 392 Hemi V8 engine 6,430 cc (392 cu in) 492 PS (362 kW; 485 hp) at 6,100 rpm 644 N⋅m (475 lb⋅ft) 2023
(Limited 2,200 Units)
Lancia (Chrysler UK)
Gasoline 3.6 V6 Pentastar 3,604 cc (219.9 cu in) 286 PS (210 kW; 282 hp) at 6,350 rpm 340 N⋅m (251 lbf⋅ft) at 4,650 rpm 2011–2014
Diesel 3.0 V6 VM Motori A630 2,987 cc (182.3 cu in) 190 PS (140 kW; 187 hp) at 4,000 rpm 440 N⋅m (325 lbf⋅ft) at 1,600–2,800 rpm 2011–2014
239 PS (176 kW; 236 hp) at 4,000 rpm 550 N⋅m (406 lbf⋅ft) at 1,800–2,800 rpm
  • Source for Lancia[58]

Interior changes[edit]

Interior (pre-facelift)

Interior changes included a revised instrument panel with localized "soft-touch" materials, 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch, a new steering wheel and center console, and standard leather seating on all trim levels. Both seat-mounted and curtain-side airbags were standard.

2015 facelift[edit]

Chrysler 300C (facelift)

In late 2014, a facelift version of the 300 was introduced. This introduced new features such as:

Marketing[edit]

As part of the 2011 Chrysler 300 advertising campaign, three TV commercials were produced. "Homecoming" featured Detroit Lions defensive lineman Ndamukong Suh driving through his rainy hometown of Portland, Oregon, in his new 2011 Chrysler 300, retracing his humble beginnings. "Attitude" featured John Varvatos seeking inspiration at a record store in Brooklyn taking a record under his arm and into his Chrysler 300. "Good Things" featured Dr. Dre driving through the streets of Los Angeles in a Beats by Dre equipped 2012 Chrysler 300.[59]

The "See It Through"' TV commercial featured the Chrysler 300 and notable Detroit locals, including former Detroit Lion Ndamukong Suh and a poem written in 1917 by Edgar Guest titled "See It Through".[60]

300S Turbine[edit]

The 300S Turbine at its presentation in Detroit in 2013

At the Detroit Motor Show in 2013, Chrysler presented a 300S paying homage to the 1964 Chrysler Turbine. It was finished in two-tone bronze and black, with an over-chrome grille and a 22-inch wheel design reminiscent of the turbine motif.[61]

Discontinuation[edit]

In 2022, Stellantis confirmed that the Chrysler 300 sedan will be discontinued after the 2023 model year due to poor sales and due to the company's plans to focus its future on electric vehicles rather than fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Stellantis will replace the Chrysler 300 with a Chrysler-badged all-electric vehicle previewed by the Chrysler Airflow EV concept.[62]

Production ended December 8, 2023, with the final vehicle being a Velvet Red 300C.[46]

Safety[edit]

Euro NCAP[edit]

The Lancia version was safety tested by Euro NCAP in autumn 2011 with the following results:

Euro NCAP test results
Lancia Thema (2011)[63]
Test Points %
Overall:
Adult occupant: 29.7 83%
Child occupant: 37.7 77%
Pedestrian: 21.3 59%
Safety assist: 5 71%

IIHS[edit]

The 2022 Chrysler 300 was tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS):

IIHS 2022 Chrysler 300 scores:[64]
Small overlap front (Driver): Marginal
Moderate overlap front Good
Side (original test) Good
Roof strength Good
Head restraints & seats Good
Headlights Poor
Front crash prevention (Vehicle-to-Vehicle) Superior optional
Child seat anchors (LATCH) ease of use Acceptable

Sales[edit]

Calendar year United States Canada Europe[i][65] Mexico Australia Europe as Lancia Thema[ii][66]
2004[67] 112,930 10,048 2,460
2005[67] 144,068 14,654 5,520 1,001[68] 363
2006[69] 143,647 13,316 14,186 1,024 1,864
2007[69] 120,636 10,021 13,463 660 1,645
2008[70] 62,352 7,443 7,244 412 1,087
2009[71] 38,606 5,234 3,428 200 822
2010[72] 37,116 4,180 3,507 218 874
2011[73] 36,285 3,045 504 308 360[74] 699
2012 70,747[75] 5,760 292 293 1,206 1,729
2013 57,724[76] 5,375 221 157 2,508 2,236
2014 53,382[77] 4,117 88 116 1,580 392
2015 53,109[78] 4,443 10 139 880 28
2016 53,241[79] 3,662 6 87 460 19
2017 51,237[80] 4,332 8 77 257
2018 46,593[81] 3,512[82] 6 39 250
2019 29,213[83] 1,949[84] 5 292
2020 16,653[85] 447[84] 5 218
2021 16,662[86] 795[87]
2022 14,087[88] 2,306[89]
2023 13,169[90] 1,522[91]
  1. ^ Europe: 2020 EU 27 + UK + Switzerland + Norway + Iceland
  2. ^ Europe: 2020 EU 27 + UK + Switzerland + Norway + Iceland

Notes[edit]

  1. ^

References[edit]

  1. ^ "Chrysler Group Begins Production of 2005 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum". automotive-fleet.com. February 17, 2004. Retrieved November 15, 2019.
  2. ^ De Guzman, Marcus (March 9, 2016). "Car Classes Simplified: The Euro-standard Car Segments – Feature Stories". AutoIndustriya.com. Retrieved November 9, 2018.
  3. ^ "The 2023 Chrysler 300 Speed, Style, and Stability". chrysler.com/2023/300.html. Retrieved February 20, 2023.
  4. ^ "2021 Chrysler 300 Sspecifications" (PDF). Retrieved February 20, 2023 – via s3.amazonaws.com. EPA Vehicle Class - Large car
  5. ^ "Chrysler 300 – Consumer Reports". consumerreports.org. Retrieved November 9, 2018. ...a true luxury car at thousands less than what luxury brands charge.
  6. ^ Bird, Colin (September 19, 2012). "Is the 2013 Chrysler 300 a Real Luxury Car?". cars.com. Retrieved November 9, 2018. .... is arguably the brand's first true luxury nameplate.
  7. ^ "New Lancia Thema: Chrysler 300's European Alter Ego Officially Revealed". Carscoop. February 14, 2011. Archived from the original on October 11, 2012. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  8. ^ Kimes, Beverly Ray; Clark, Henry Austin (1996). Standard Catalog of American Cars 1805–1942 (Third ed.). Krause Publications. pp. 306–334. ISBN 9780873414784.
  9. ^ Holmstrom, Darwin (2019). Hemi Muscle 70 Years: Chrysler, Dodge & Plymouth High Performance. Motorbooks. pp. 47–51. ISBN 9780760365199. Retrieved January 17, 2023.
  10. ^ "Chrysler 300 Generations: All Model Years". CarBuzz. Retrieved October 2, 2022.
  11. ^ a b Fallah, Alborz (July 18, 2009). "Chrysler gets back into production". caradvice.com.au. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  12. ^ "Chinese-Built Chrysler 300C at Beijing Auto Show". November 20, 2006. Retrieved July 2, 2017.
  13. ^ Newberry, Stephan (2005). The Car design yearbook 3. Merrell. ISBN 9781858942421.
  14. ^ "2003 Chrysler 300 specifications, information, data". Carfolio.com. Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  15. ^ "First Test: 2005 Chrysler 300C". Motor Trend. Retrieved January 30, 2013.
  16. ^ "The Chrysler 300 and 300C". allpar.com. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  17. ^ Wilson, Kevin a (March 7, 2004). "Sailing Large: Chrysler Launches A Flagship Under American Colors". Autoweek. Retrieved October 3, 2020.
  18. ^ "Burke Brown, LX Car Leader: Creating the 300C, Magnum, Charger, and Challenger". allpar.com. January 14, 2021. Retrieved July 16, 2022.
  19. ^ a b c "2006 Chrysler 300" (PDF). media.chrysler.com. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  20. ^ St. Antoine, Arthur (February 2005). "2005 Cadillac CTS-V vs. Chrysler 300C SRT8 vs. Pontiac GTO". Motor Trend. Archived from the original on February 22, 2014. Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  21. ^ "Chrysler 300C CRD SRT Design (2008) driven review". carmagazine.co.uk.
  22. ^ "Chrysler Group and Magna Steyr Enter Agreement for Chrysler 300C Production" (Press release). PR Newswire. October 27, 2005. Retrieved April 10, 2013.
  23. ^ Edwardson, Grant (February 25, 2008). "Official: Chrysler 300C SRT Diesel Announced". worldcarfans.com. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  24. ^ Vance, Brian (March 30, 2005). "Chrysler 300C Convertible – ASC Helios – First Drive & Road Test Review". Motor Trend. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  25. ^ "ASC Helios 4-door Convertible". Automobile Magazine. January 10, 2005. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  26. ^ "New 2007 Chrysler 300 Long Wheelbase Debuts at the 2006 New York International Auto Show". media.chrysler (Press release). April 13, 2006. Archived from the original on November 29, 2006. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  27. ^ Aziz, Nick (December 21, 2005). "Chrysler announces 300C Heritage Edition". leftlanenews.com. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  28. ^ a b de Feijter, Tycho (September 22, 2017). "The Beijing Auto T8, A Chinese Limousine Based On The Chrysler 300C". chinacarhistory.com. Retrieved January 21, 2023.
  29. ^ a b "Edmunds: Pontiac G8 GT vs. Dodge Charger R/T". February 25, 2008.
  30. ^ a b "Car review: Chrysler 300C CRD Auto Car Review". BBC Top Gear. October 2005. Archived from the original on April 7, 2014. Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  31. ^ "Hot Wheels: Chrysler's 'Poor Man's Bentley'". Newsweek. May 30, 2004. Retrieved July 2, 2017.
  32. ^ "Obama's Old Car Fails To Sell on eBay: $1 Million Asking Price Too High?". HuffPost. February 2, 2012. Retrieved July 21, 2015.
  33. ^ Dayton, Dalia (February 19, 2015). "Chrysler 300:The Celebrity Owners and Promoters". Autoinfluence.com. Retrieved July 21, 2015.
  34. ^ Matias, Carlos (August 5, 2011). "The 25 Most Iconic Hip-Hop Cars". complex.com. Retrieved July 21, 2015.
  35. ^ Chase, Chris (March 4, 2008). "Ralph Gilles, Vice President of Design, Chrysler, Jeep and Truck division". Canadian Driver. Retrieved July 23, 2018.
  36. ^ "Motor Trend Names Chrysler 300 2005 Car of the Year". Motor Trend. November 17, 2004. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  37. ^ "2005 10Best Cars: Best Full-Size Sedan: Chrysler 300". Car and Driver. January 2005. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  38. ^ "2006 10Best Cars: Best Full Size Sedan: Chrysler 300/300C Hemi/300C SRT8". Car and Driver. January 2006. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  39. ^ "2005 Automobile of the Year and All-Stars". Automobile Magazine. February 1, 2005. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  40. ^ "2005 North American Car of the Year". newcartestdrive.com. January 24, 2005. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  41. ^ "AJAC – 2005: Luxury". Automobile Journalists Association of Canada. Archived from the original on May 2, 2018. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  42. ^ "Chrysler – 300 – Quality Awards". chrysler.com. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  43. ^ "2005 World Car Awards – Results". wcoty.com. Retrieved May 1, 2018.
  44. ^ "How the Chrysler 300 was given New Life". forums.vwvortex.com. January 7, 2011. Retrieved July 8, 2020.
  45. ^ "New Eight Speed Transmission Introduced by Chrysler". Retrieved October 3, 2020.
  46. ^ a b Stellantis (December 9, 2023). "Last Legend Off the Line: 2023 Chrysler 300C Ends Production". PR Newswire. Retrieved December 10, 2023.
  47. ^ Zatz, David (November 16, 2020). "2011–2014 Chrysler 300C cars (and Lancia Thema)". Allpar. Retrieved July 16, 2022.
  48. ^ Kekeh, Nicole (February 27, 2012). "Meet The Boss Behind Chrysler's Image Makeover; He Is French". Forbes. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  49. ^ "2012 Chrysler 300 S / 300C Executive Series". Car and Driver. April 2011. Retrieved November 14, 2012.
  50. ^ "FCA US Media - 2021 Chrysler 300 Fact Sheet" (Press release). Archived from the original on January 3, 2021.
  51. ^ "2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8". News Car Quotes. April 20, 2011. Archived from the original on August 8, 2011. Retrieved August 8, 2011.
  52. ^ Nagy, Chris (July 18, 2011). "Posh Performer: 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8". automoblog.net. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  53. ^ Kierstein, Alex (May 6, 2014). "Say goodbye to Chrysler SRT models". Road & Track. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  54. ^ Dowling, Joshua (November 19, 2021). "Chrysler axed in Australia as right-hand-drive production ends". Drive. Retrieved January 21, 2023.
  55. ^ Nagy, Chris (December 21, 2010). "Luxury Reigns Affordable with 2011 Chrysler 300". automoblog.net. Archived from the original on February 21, 2013. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  56. ^ "ZF and Chrysler Reach Agreement for new 8-Speed Automatic Transmission". Retrieved June 15, 2013.
  57. ^ "Chrysler 300 Review". Edmunds. Retrieved January 1, 2014.
  58. ^ "New Thema: alternative class". lanciapress. August 30, 2011. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  59. ^ "Chrysler Good Things". wk.com. June 7, 2011. Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  60. ^ "Chrysler See It Through". wk.com. November 22, 2011. Retrieved April 2, 2014.
  61. ^ Duchiron, Florian (January 22, 2013). "Chrysler 300 Turbine: en hommage à une technologie oubliée". Autonews (France) (in French). Retrieved April 24, 2021.
  62. ^ Wayland, Michael (September 13, 2022). "Chrysler to end production of 300 sedan after rolling out limited edition V-8 model". CNBC.
  63. ^ "Official Lancia Thema 2011 safety rating results". Euro NCAP.
  64. ^ "2022 Chrysler 300 4-door sedan". IIHS-HLDI.
  65. ^ Demandt, Bart (February 10, 2014). "Chrysler 300C European sales figures". carsalesbase.com. Retrieved January 27, 2023.
  66. ^ Demandt, Bart (January 28, 2014). "Lancia Thema European sales figures". carsalesbase.com. Retrieved January 27, 2023.
  67. ^ a b "Chrysler Group 2005 US Sales". prnewswire.com (Press release). January 3, 2008. Archived from the original on January 21, 2009. Retrieved January 5, 2009.
  68. ^ "Redireccionamiento". inegi.org.mx.
  69. ^ a b "Total Chrysler LLC December 2007 Sales Up 1 Percent on the Strength of Retail". CheersandGears.com. January 3, 2008. Retrieved January 5, 2009.
  70. ^ "December 2008 Sales: Chrysler LLC". CheersandGears.com. January 5, 2009. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  71. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC December 2009 Sales". CheersandGears.com. January 5, 2010. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  72. ^ "December 2010 Sales: Chrysler – Cheers & Gears Forums". Cheersandgears.com. January 3, 2011. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  73. ^ "Chrysler sales shoot up 37% (26% for 2011)". allpar.com. January 4, 2012. Retrieved July 16, 2022.
  74. ^ "Sales of Fiat-Alfa Romeo-Jeep in Australia | Vendite di auto FCA in Australia". carsitaly.net.
  75. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2012 U.S. Sales Increased 10 Percent". media.chrysler.com (Press release). January 3, 2013. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  76. ^ "Chrysler Group LLC Reports December 2013 U.S. Sales Increased 6 Percent". media.chrysler.com (Press release). January 3, 2014. Retrieved December 3, 2014.
  77. ^ "FCA US LLC Reports December 2014 U.S. Sales Increased 20 Percent" (PDF). fcausllc.com (Press release). January 5, 2015. Archived from the original (PDF) on December 22, 2015. Retrieved January 7, 2015.
  78. ^ "FCA US LLC Reports December 2015 U.S. Sales Increased 13 Percent" (PDF). fcausllc.com (Press release). January 5, 2016. Archived from the original (PDF) on January 8, 2016. Retrieved January 7, 2016.
  79. ^ "FCA US Reports 2016 December and Full-year U.S. Sales". media.fcanorthamerica.com (Press release). January 4, 2017. Retrieved January 4, 2017.
  80. ^ "FCA US Reports 2017 December and Full-year U.S. Sales". media.fcanorthamerica.com (Press release). January 3, 2018. Retrieved January 3, 2018.
  81. ^ "FCA US Media – FCA US Reports 2018 December and Full-Year Sales". media.fcanorthamerica.com (Press release). Retrieved April 6, 2019.
  82. ^ "FCA US Media – FCA Canada Reports December and Full Year Sales Record for Jeep Wrangler". media.fcanorthamerica.com. Retrieved April 6, 2019.
  83. ^ "FCA US Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2019 sales". media.fcanorthamerica.com (Press release). January 3, 2020. Retrieved January 3, 2020.
  84. ^ a b "FCA Canada Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-Year 2020 Results; Grows Retail Market Share". media.stellantisnorthamerica.com (Press release).
  85. ^ "FCA US Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2020 sales". media.stellantisnorthamerica.com (Press release). January 5, 2021. Retrieved January 5, 2021.
  86. ^ "FCA US Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2021 sales". prnewswire.com (Press release). January 5, 2022. Retrieved January 5, 2022.
  87. ^ "FCA Canada Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2021 Results, Record Retail Sales Year for Jeep® Grand Cherokee and Jeep Gladiator". media.stellantisnorthamerica.com.
  88. ^ "FCA Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2022 Sales Results". media.stellantisnorthamerica.com (Press release). January 4, 2023. Retrieved January 10, 2023.
  89. ^ "FCA Canada reports fourth-quarter 2022 and full-year sales results, becomes #1-seller of plug-in hybrid vehicles in the country". media.stellantisnorthamerica.com (Press release). January 4, 2023. Retrieved January 10, 2023.
  90. ^ "Stellantis Media - Special Report: 2023 FCA US LLC U.S. Sales Archive:FCA Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2023 US Sales Results".
  91. ^ "Stellantis Media - FCA Canada Reports Fourth-quarter and Full-year 2023 Sales Results".

External links[edit]