Chrysler 300C SRT8 upgraded for 2012

After Fiat’s takeover of Chrysler, the impact was new design and revamping of existing models. New for 2012, the Chrysler 300 came out with a new model, although some would call it an upgrade rather than an entire new machine. Claiming it to be the “most powerful, best-handling sedan ever”, Chrysler displayed the highly-anticipated 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 at the 2011 New York Auto Show.

The 300 SRT8 differentiates itself from the regular 300 by sporting a more aggressive appearance to go along with the increased power. The exterior of the SRT8 gets a new front with a blacked-out mesh grille, chrome-accented lower fascia with 4-inch round dual exhaust tips, and a boot lid spoiler. Adding to aggressive look, are new side sills, 20-inch aluminum wheels with black painted pockets and sport-tuned suspension. The car sits a good half-inch lower than the regular model.

The interior changes aren’t something to write home about. It’s limited to a new leather wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, sports seats and few changes to the instrument cluster (handful carbon-fibre touches).

The biggest improvements are the underneath the hood. It packs a beefier 6.4-litre V8 Hemi engine that churns out an impressive 465 hp. It replaces the older 6.1-litre unit from the outgoing version. The bigger unit produces an increase of 40 hp, and offers 630 Nm of torque. By adding an active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft, the new engine is now able to produce more torque at lower rpm. The car hits can hit 0-100 kph in under 5 seconds, and has a top speed of 280 kph. The transmission remains the same old 5-speed automatic with paddle shifters.

Other performance features include Adaptive Damping Suspension (ADS) system that uses a variety of inputs to automatically adjust the suspension depending on the road conditions. Also in the mix, the SRT8 also gets a specially-tuned fully-hydraulic steering system for better driving feel, revised gearing and a new BREMBO braking system. Highway fuel economy by approximately 25% has gone up thanks an active valve exhaust system and Chrysler’s Fuel Saver technology.

SRT8 models are pretty popular in the GCC, so expect it to come to the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and other GCC countries around towards the end of the year. The SRT8 is scheduled to go on sale in U.S. by September 2011.

Keep track of updates in the Chrysler 300C buyer guide.