At long last, the Chrysler 300 is getting an update! Since its introduction in 2005 model year, it’s seen only minor changes, but now we see the 2011 Chrysler 300 with its redesigned interior and exterior. Keeping the same general shape, the new sheetmetal isn’t so much revolutionary as it is evolutionary, which should be a good thing for the Fiat-run domestic automaker. Click past the jump for a slew of pictures, the press release, and my impressions.
The new bodywork on the 300 is more rounded, with more creases, lending it a more modern look than the previous generation, which featured a decidedly retro theme, although the rear view reminds me of the 1950’s-era finned cars and makes me wonder if designers are returning to that design cue.
Out front, a crease running the length of the hood breaks up what would otherwise – and currently is – a large mesa of steel. Moving along the sides of the 2011 300, the slit-window profile is present and hasn’t been too heavily modified. This is definitely a good thing, as I found the distinctive profile attractive on the 2005-2010 model.
If there’s anything I don’t like about the outside, it’s the chrome strip that runs the width of the trunk. It looks out of place, even if it’s meant to be there in lieu of a true chrome bumper.
Inside, Chrysler has done a number on what was a fairly plain and angled setup, instead opting for more organic rounded shapes. The updated gauge cluster is a welcome sight, removing the last of the “Indiglo” bluish-green backlighting that Chrysler loved 10 years ago. In its place is a cool blue lighting, used throughout the interior for a cohesive look. The only shape that seems out of place is the trim ring around the center console, a rounded-rectangle.
Throughout the interior, the hard, angular plastics have been replaced by soft touch materials, including lots of leather, as seen on many of the Pentastar’s updated 2011 models. There’s even the seemingly ubiquitous dual-panel moonroof, as seen on many a luxury car in the past few years.
While engines haven’t weren’t mentioned in the press release, expect the new Pentastar corporate V6 and an updated Hemi V8, both with better power and fuel economy than their predecessors.
Overall, the new 300 should boost its sales, which have steadily declined as the previous generation’s looks became quickly dated.
Show Press Release
All-new 2011 Chrysler 300 Series Flagships Redefine the American Luxury Sedan Once Again
December 20, 2010 , Auburn Hills, Mich. – With its iconic rear-wheel drive proportions, elegantly sculptured bodyside, world-class craftsmanship and refinement, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 series proudly delivers the distinction, innovation and premium large sedan features at a legendary value, while setting a new course for the American brand.
With more than 55 years of elegant proportions and head-turning style, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300 delivers contemporary styling with design details unexpected in the segment. At the front, an all-new grille features seven deeply sculpted horizontal blades that express precision. The liquid-chrome finish of the blades and the new Chrysler wing badge provide a unique contrast against the beautifully drawn bright chrome grille surround. Illuminating the road ahead are signature “key slot” headlamps with a scalloped lower edge. Inside, bi-functional projector headlamps are nestled next to LED-illuminated daytime running lamps, which together form a “C” shape for unmistakable on-road presence.
The profile of the all-new Chrysler 300 features the distinctive proportions of its predecessor with added design refinement for a more tailored appearance. Dramatic front-fender forms rise above the sculpted hood and are echoed by rear-quarter forms which rise above the deck lid and travel down the vertical taillamps for an unmistakably bold signature silhouette. For improved aerodynamics and visibility, the all-new Chrysler luxury flagship’s windshield has been raked back 3 inches, while rolled-framed doors with thinner pillars improve outward visibility by 15 percent. To take in the sky above, a new dual-pane panoramic sunroof provides Chrysler 300 passengers with twice the outward visibility of a standard sunroof. For a more contemporary appearance, the 2011 Chrysler 300 features a clean bodyside with a distinct windswept A-line that emphasizes the sedan’s long wheelbase and spacious cabin. Delivering a touch of world-class sophistication, the all-new Chrysler 300 is highlighted by chrome daylight openings, chrome front- and rear-fascia accents and available 20-inch polished-aluminum wheels.
Elevating the all-new Chrysler 300’s presence from the rear, the deck lid now incorporates a lip spoiler while the new Chrysler wing badge is proudly centered below. Jeweled-like rear taillamps feature harmonious LED illumination, while signature “light pipes” illuminate for an alluring nighttime appearance. Straddling the vertical lamps, Chrysler 300’s rear fascia integrates a chrome appliqué that seamlessly connects the taillamp elements while emphasizing the road-holding stature of the flagship sedan. Standard fascia-mounted 3.5-inch oval dual exhaust tips complete the sedan’s appearance.
Combining world-class accommodations with American style, the all-new Chrysler 300’s interior delivers expressive style, authentic materials, passenger comfort features and precise fit and finish. Substantial interior upgrades on the all-new Chrysler 300 consist of soft touch materials, premium interior trim, available heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, and real wood appliques on the instrument panel, doors, center console and steering wheel.
Designed to exude a luxurious environment, the 2011 Chrysler 300 sedans feature cast-skin instrument and door panels with three-dimensional dual gloss graining for a premium appearance and suppleness. Bright chrome contrasted with liquid chrome accents give the Chrysler flagship sedan the appearance of milled aluminum. For added detail, a new instrument cluster features two large gauge faces with sapphire blue illumination and chrome ring accents. Providing a premium and contemporary environment is an all-new sapphire blue LED-illuminated ambient interior lighting.
With its massive 8.4-inch Uconnect® Touch infotainment center, the all-new Chrysler 300 sedans feature the segment’s largest standard touchscreen display, integrating world-class infotainment and convenience technologies to keep passengers connected, comfortable and secure. From touchscreen navigation to dual-zone climate controls, to the ability to check fuel prices and personalize convenience features, Uconnect Touch makes life in the all-new Chrysler flagship sedan an excellent experience for the driver and passengers.
Built at the Brampton Assembly Plant in Brampton, Ont. (Canada), the 2011 Chrysler 300 arrives in showrooms in the first quarter of 2011.
by John Suit
Source: Chrysler
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At long last, the Chrysler 300 is getting an update! Since its introduction in 2005 model year, it’s seen only minor changes, but now we see the 2011 Chrysler 300 with its redesigned interior and exterior. Keeping the same general shape, the new sheetmetal isn’t so much revolutionary as it is evolutionary, which should be a good thing for the Fiat-run domestic automaker. Click past the jump for a slew of pictures, the press release, and my impressions.
The new bodywork on the 300 is more rounded, with more creases, lending it a more modern look than the previous generation, which featured a decidedly retro theme, although the rear view reminds me of the 1950’s-era finned cars and makes me wonder if designers are returning to that design cue.
Out front, a crease running the length of the hood breaks up what would otherwise – and currently is – a large mesa of steel. Moving along the sides of the 2011 300, the slit-window profile is present and hasn’t been too heavily modified. This is definitely a good thing, as I found the distinctive profile attractive on the 2005-2010 model.
Inside, Chrysler has done a number on what was a fairly plain and angled setup, instead opting for more organic rounded shapes. The updated gauge cluster is a welcome sight, removing the last of the “Indiglo” bluish-green backlighting that Chrysler loved 10 years ago. In its place is a cool blue lighting, used throughout the interior for a cohesive look. The only shape that seems out of place is the trim ring around the center console, a rounded-rectangle.
Throughout the interior, the hard, angular plastics have been replaced by soft touch materials, including lots of leather, as seen on many of the Pentastar’s updated 2011 models. There’s even the seemingly ubiquitous dual-panel moonroof, as seen on many a luxury car in the past few years.
