12^th September, 2003

300C concept makes European debut

THE Chrysler brand continues to strengthen its identity worldwide with the European debut of the Chrysler 300C sedan concept at the 60th International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt.

First shown at the 2003 New York International Auto Show, the Chrysler 300C will be released worldwide next year.

With an entirely new shape based on the company’s all-new rear-drive architecture, this striking concept sedan continues the Chrysler brand’s proud “letter series” tradition – but in a thoroughly modern way.

It has been nearly five decades since Chrysler first introduced its fabled “letter series” cars. The brand’s renowned line of Chrysler 300s started with the C-300 in 1955 and continued for 11 years.

The Chrysler 300C sedan concept features classic proportions with a long hood, short deck and a dramatic profile complete with 20-inch tyres. Paying tribute to some of the first “letter series” cars, a production version similar to the Chrysler 300C concept will go on sale in 2004.

While Chrysler 300C is a concept vehicle, it provides a strong hint at the first sedan from Chrysler Group’s next generation of rear-wheel-drive vehicles.

The Chrysler 300C concept also marks the return of the HEMI® engine to the Chrysler brand after more than 30 years. The legendary engine design has been re-engineered and reborn as a modern, high-performance and durable powerplant known as the all-new 5.7-litre HEMI V-8. The HEMI fitted to the 300C is very fuel competitive in its class and produces more power and torque than any Chrysler passenger car engine since the 426 HEMI of the ‘60s and ‘70s.

Dramatic new design direction
The striking new proportions of the 300C concept were made possible by the decision to move the next generation of Chrysler sedans to rear-drive, after more than 10 years of “cab forward” front-drive designs. The rear-drive configuration gave company designers the freedom to sculpt a longer hood and noble proportions, while maintaining an excellent interior package.

From the front, the Chrysler 300C will not be mistaken for any other automobile on the road. The 300C concept wears the most elegant execution of the Chrysler “face” yet – a grille inspired by the memorable V-10-powered Chrysler Chronos concept car that made its debut in 1998. This grille design, featuring the elegant Chrysler winged emblem, is the “master mould” for all future Chrysler vehicles, an instantly recognisable design cue.

On either side of the grille are sculpted headlamps with high-intensity discharge projectors that immediately convey detailed precision. The front fascia has chrome bumper accents, conveying a rich yet solid appearance.

Its long hood and short deck give the 300C an unmistakably strong road presence, while its raised beltline and low glass-to-body ratio provide a sense of stability and protection. Chromed details, such as the body side mouldings, door handles and window surrounds, add a touch of elegance without being overstated.

Chrysler 300C’s spacious interior continues the noble, proud themes of the exterior, with a handcrafted feel and use of distinctive materials and textures throughout.

Faux tortoise shell, for example, is used on the steering wheel rim, shifter knob and inside door pulls, complemented by chrome door handles and other accents inspired by the Chronos show car.

Evolving the design seen on the current Chrysler 300M, a four-gauge instrument cluster with chrome rims and a precision appearance are used in the 300C, setting the new standard for all Chrysler cars.

Chrysler Group today provided further evidence of its strong and continued new product offensive in Europe and other international markets with the reveal of the new Chrysler 300C Touring concept at the 2003 IAA.

As the estate version of the 300C sedan concept, the  300C Touring concept will expand the model range by building upon the attributes of the sedan. A production version of the 300C Touring will arrive only to Chrysler dealerships outside North America in 2004.