There is a big jump in price for the redesigned Chrysler 300C as it finally hits UK showrooms but a lot more equipment is included for the money.
The previous model, priced from just under GBP30,000, was discontinued in 2010 and the new generation now starts at GBP35,995, rising to £39,995.
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Chrysler UK is now part of Fiat here and brand director Nigel Land said: “It is still less expensive than anything else in the E segment if you compare like for like on equipment levels. The 300C is well equipped, whether in Limited or even more luxurious Executive trim. Unlike the majority of its rivals the equipment comes as standard.”
The list includes keyless entry, automatic headlights, daytime running lights, a SmartBeam system that adapts to the light in the surrounding environment, automatic windscreen wipers and automatic temperature control.
The driver’s side door mirror darkens automatically to reduce dazzle and both side mirrors lower when reverse gear is engaged to give the driver better visibility of the ground, kerbs or other obstacles.
A full length dual pane panoramic sun roof is standard on the Executive and the traditional fuel cap is a thing of the past. Instead the fuel flap opens at the push of a button, a fuel filler pipe opens when the pump nozzle is inserted and closes automatically when refuelling has been completed, helping to protect against theft and vandalism as well as fuel spills and incorrect fuelling.
The 300C also features the company’s Uconnect multi-media infotainment system.
Unlike many rivals which offer a baffling array of engine sizes and trim levels, all models have a new VM Motori 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel which uses Fiat Group MultiJet 2 technology.
Land said Chrysler’s 3.6-litre Pentastar petrol V6 is available for the car but he did not see potential for significant sales in a diesel-dominated segment.
Since introduction in 1999, about 9,500 300Cs have been sold in the UK. Land says he expects to sell 450 in the second half of this year and between 750 and 1,000 in a full year.
This time round, there are no plans for an estate (wagon) version. Previous 300Cs were built by Magna Steyr in Austria and the wagon option was unique; North America was offered only a Dodge variant.
This time round, the cars are sourced from Chrysler Group’s Brampton plant in Ontario.
