We're just a week away from Chrysler's big strategy meeting where it will roll out its product plans for the next few years. Part of that plan will be a new Chrysler 300C and this test mule is the fist indication of some progress with the program.
There's not much to see here as most of this prototype wears current sheetmetal and SRT trim, but the camouflage over the front end likely means there's some sort of engine testing going on with a new front fascia.
Will the Hemi V8 remain? Probably, but the next-generation 300C will likely put more emphasis on smaller engines given the stricter fuel economy standards on the way, not to mention the fact that this 300 may underpin some Alfa Romeo and Lancia sedans in Europe.
We'll have more details next week, but it looks like Chrysler is still moving ahead, for now.
hondacura4 says:
09:18 AM, 10/28/09
Given that the current and MMC'd 300's use an old modified Mercedes E-Class platform will the next generation still use that same platform?
albook says:
09:25 AM, 10/28/09
"Given that the current and MMC'd 300's use an old modified Mercedes E-Class platform will the next generation still use that same platform?"
Yes, the platform carries over to this new model, and there won't be much of a sheet metal change, either.
notabigdeal says:
09:39 AM, 10/28/09
I guess its not that new then. At least it is finally being updated.
cr_driver says:
10:15 AM, 10/28/09
Looking at that lateral photo I still find it appealing.
chrome58 says:
11:35 AM, 10/28/09
OMG, why do people still say it's a 1990s E-class platform. It is NOT. Electrical, seats, steering column, and transmission, and some smaller parts were shared. Plus, the suspension design was shared, and that's it. It's not a platform share.
I'd expect car people to be wiser.
brn says:
12:10 PM, 10/28/09
"I guess its not that new then. At least it is finally being updated."
Agreed. I really like the 300, but it's overdue for a refresh. I look forward to seeing how this turns out.
bodyblue says:
01:08 PM, 10/28/09
"OMG, why do people still say it's a 1990s E-class platform. It is NOT. Electrical, seats, steering column, and transmission, and some smaller parts were shared. Plus, the suspension design was shared, and that's it. It's not a platform share."
Not that I really care but how is that NOT a platform share??? LOL
zoomzoomn says:
02:07 PM, 10/28/09
This mild restyling is going to be so too little, too late!!!
inlinesix says:
11:13 PM, 10/28/09
zoomzoomn
+1
brn says:
07:08 AM, 10/29/09
I disagree with zoomzoom and inlinesix, at least about the "too little" part. The trend for a lot of sedans is to be more like what the 300 already is. If they change the 300 too much, they're messing with a good thing.
Their only problem with the 300 is the stigma associated with Chrysler (and that might kill them).