The latest photos of the 2011 Chrysler 300 reveal a myriad of major changes. A sophisticated dashboard-mounted UConnect Touch infotainment system
offers numerous convenience and connectivity features. Chrysler says that the
8.4-inch screen -- just over an inch smaller than an Apple iPad -- is the
largest standard screen in the segment.
Other interior upgrades include new blue back lighting for the gauges, more
contoured seats and, Chrysler says, vastly improved interior materials.
Like its Dodge Charger platform mate, the new 300 features a very
thorough facelift, leaving elements of the current design somewhat intact. The
interior is clearly vastly improved, addressing what was often the biggest
complaint with the vehicle.
A new front end looks like it will tone down the Bentley influences in favor of
something a bit more chiseled and modern, and clearly has familial ties with its
little brother Chrysler 200 sedan.
The side sills have been reworked, and there are visible changes
to the side window profile. The small triangle at the rear-side window is gone,
resulting in an enlarged glass area, but a thin pillar appears to reduce the
size of the roll-down portion of the side glass.
The rear-end gets new LED tail-lights, a reshaped trunk lid,
and a new rear bumper with integrated exhaust tips which are more a part of the
rear styling.
Underpinning the next 300 will be Chrysler's new LY architecture --
essentially a heavy rework of the current LX chassis. However, some current
components will be carried over. Fiat is said be planning future cars on the LY
platform as well.
In order to improve fuel economy, look for the next 300 to
feature improved aerodynamics, axle ratios and drivetrains. At the heart of the
improvements will be Chrysler's all-new Pentastar V6 engines. The new Pentastar
3.6-liter V6 will replace both V6s currently offered in the LX cars, improving
both fuel economy and performance. The new Pentastar V6 should pack about 290
horsepower while offering close to 30mpg on the highway.
Although an eight-speed automatic transmission is planned for the LY cars, the
2011 300 will have to make due with a five-speed unit.
For those wanting more power, Chrysler's familiar 5.7L HEMI V8
will be on offer, generating 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque. The
5.7L-equipped 300 is expected to hit 0-60 in 5.4 seconds. A more powerful 6.4L
V8 will eventually join the lineup.
All-wheel drive will return for 2011, with the 300 offering a
class-exclusive transfer case that allows the front axle to disconnect from the
drivetrain when AWD is not needed. Chrysler says the feature can improve fuel
economy by up to 5 percent.
Stop by Tunkhannock Auto Mart located at 509 Route 29 South Tunkhannock Pa. for a test drive today, or call (866) 414-9861. Tunkhannock Auto Mart is a franchised dealer selling and servicing Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge and Ram. Tunkhannock Auto Mart also sells used Chrysler , Dodge , Ram and Jeep vehicles, along with off-brand cars, trucks and SUV's.
New 2011 Chrysler 300 E-Brochure