The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8

One would think that 425 horsepower in a 4-door saloon would be plenty, but the folks at Chrysler’s SRT division beg to differ, bless them.  They’re about to roll out the most powerful, best handling 300 so far. The party piece in the 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is the new 465 horsepower 6.4-liter Hemi V8.

Chrysler has been making great strides refining the 300; upgraded chassis, better driving dynamics, higher quality fit and finish, and more modern standard features.  The new SRT8 variant is the ultimate expression of the 300.

Power comes from a 6.4-liter “Hemi” V8 making 465 horsepower (347 kW) and 465 lb/ft of torque (630 Nm), routed through a 5-speed automatic gearbox with paddle-shifters fitted to the steering wheel.  Chrysler claims 0-60 mph times are “in the high four-second range” with the quarter-mile times in the high 12’s.  Fuel economy is up by about 25% over the outgoing 425 hp 6.1-liter Hemi V8, via clever engine management with cylinder deactivation. That translates to something like 23 to 25 mpg for the new 300 SRT8.

The SRT8 treatment also includes an Adaptive Dampening Suspension with driver selectable “sport” and “auto” settings. The SRT8 sits half an inch lower (13 mm) than the standard 300 and rides on seven-spoke 20” forged aluminum wheels.  The binders are by Brembo, 14.2 inches (360 mm) up front and 13.8 inches (350 mm) at the rear, which deliver 60-0 in less than 120 feet (36 meters). Not bad for a two-ton sedan.

Inside, Chrysler has fitted bespoke SRT leather seats, heated multifunction steering wheel, SRT8 logos and carbon-fiber trim.  Drivers can keep track of the SRT8’s performance via an 8.4-inch (21 cm) “Electronic Vehicle Information Center” screen located in the center dashboard.

Outside, the 300 SRT8 is definitely all-American with aggressive styling but it does barrow cues from the Mercedes E-Class in its new lower front and rear valance, the new Jaguar XJ contributes a little flavor to the hood and grille and there’s a touch of Bentley throughout.

The 300 SRT8 is aimed at younger buyers that want a high-horsepower sedan but don’t want to or can’t pony up the extra cabbage for an AMG, M5 or S6.  In the domestic market, the Cadillac CTS-V is its closest rival but the Caddy brings more style and a lot more power to the table (91 hp). It also costs about $15K (US) more. So, in the value-for-money category it would appear that Chrysler could have a winner on its hands.

Prices have not been announced but expect something in the $45K to $50K (US) range to start. The 300 SRT8 will arrive in showrooms this fall.