Fiat Chrysler's Ambition

The Chrysler "300C," a popular upper-middle class sedan in Japan, has been updated. The latest model, the "300," was released in Japan on December 15, 2012.

In July 2011, Italian automaker Fiat acquired 58.5 percent of the company's shares, making Chrysler its subsidiary. The two brands aim to differentiate themselves in the market, with Fiat handling compact and smaller vehicles, and Chrysler handling larger ones, while simultaneously pursuing synergistic effects.

The Chrysler 300 is one testament to this. In Europe, including Italy, it is sold under the Lancia "Thema" name. It is a rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The previous Chrysler 300C was developed using Mercedes-Benz components. It was a well-crafted sedan with a solid chassis, a torquey engine, and excellent handling.



Building on the previous 300C, the current 300 aims for even greater luxury, with increased power and improved quietness achieved through the adoption of "acoustic glass" with a double-layer structure for the windshield and side windows.

The body has also undergone significant revisions, with the front grille and surrounding panels being renewed. It is characterized by a slight increase in size, with the overall length extended by 60mm to 5,070mm and the width by 15mm to 1,905mm. The overall height remains unchanged at 1,495mm.

Driving it reveals a car that offers a sporty driving experience with an engine that revs well and a flat ride. The passion of Fiat Chrysler seems to continue to enhance this car's appeal.

The Interior Impression is Very Good

The Chrysler 300 immediately impresses from the moment you open the door. The blue illuminated gauges against the beige interior create a pleasant atmosphere. The test car was the "Luxury" trim, featuring an ivory exterior and a leather interior called Light Frost Beige. This combination was highly appealing, but unfortunately, it is not available for the Japanese specification. Such delightful occurrences sometimes happen with imported cars due to unforeseen circumstances, even if they aren't commercially available.

Regardless, the interior impression is very good. The center cluster, centered around an 8.4-inch LCD screen and integrated with the "uconnect" system, features a unique design with metallic circular ornamentation. The climate control panel is located below it. The controls are not cluttered and are designed for intuitive operation, which is commendable.



The spaciousness of the interior is another charm of the 300, with a sense of ample room in all directions for both front and rear passengers. The natural light entering through the "Dual Pane Panoramic Sunroof," standard on the "Luxury" trim, enhances the cabin's comfort.

For a car often used by businessmen, comfort is likely the most crucial keyword. The 300's inherent qualities, such as its high level of quietness and comfortable ride, will surely be appreciated by business professionals as well.

Its True Strength Lies at High RPM?

Surprisingly, the Chrysler 300 truly shines when driven at higher engine speeds.

The 3,604cc V6 engine, which produces a maximum torque of 340Nm at 4,650rpm, is flexible across its entire range thanks to variable valve timing. However, it truly begins to unleash its power above 3,000rpm. From there, the car's true character emerges; it responds instantly to subtle accelerator inputs for acceleration and deceleration, and the body moves smoothly along with steering inputs.

The Privilege of a Luxury Car

How has the Chrysler 300 changed after being acquired by Fiat?

"We have made significant revisions to both the interior and exterior," explains the public relations department of Fiat Chrysler Japan.

"First, the power output has been increased by 15 percent compared to the previous model, reaching 286ps. Simultaneously, we have reviewed the fuel efficiency and succeeded in improving it by 10 percent. The A-pillars have been made thinner and more steeply raked than the previous model."

Another feature of the new 300 is the adoption of Poltrona Frau leather for the seats, a material that can be considered an asset of the Fiat Group. This leather, known for its smooth texture that seems to cling to the palm, has been used in Italian luxury brands such as Ferrari.



Such luxury is surely the privilege of a high-end car. While downsizing is a major trend today, the Chrysler 300 stands in opposition to it. The car's enjoyable acceleration from its ample torque, the comfortable ride provided by its long wheelbase and heavy body, and its spacious interior are all worth experiencing.

The price is 3.98 million yen for the "300 Limited" and 5.38 million yen for the "300C Luxury." The latter exclusively features equipment such as Poltrona Frau leather seats, a sunroof, blind-spot monitor, and 20-inch wheels.

Chrysler 300C Luxury
Body Size | Length 5,070 x Width 1,905 x Height 1,495 mm
Wheelbase | 3,050 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,625 / 1,640 mm
Ground Clearance | 140 mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,900 kg
Gross Vehicle Weight | 2,175 kg
Engine | 3,604cc V6 DOHC
Maximum Output | 210 kW (286 ps) / 6,350 rpm
Maximum Torque | 340 Nm / 4,650 rpm
Transmission | 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain | FR
Suspension Front/Rear | Wishbone / 5-link
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated disc / Ventilated disc
Tires | 245/45/ZR20
Fuel Economy | 9.2km/ℓ (JC08 mode)
Price | 5.38 million yen