2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Bows With 465-HP [New York Auto Show Preview]
The snobby older brother of the Charger SRT8, Chrysler has revealed a high performance version of its full-size sedan, the 300 SRT8. Powered by the very same 6.4-liter V8 engine it makes 465-hp and an outrageous 465 lb-ft of torque to deliver a 0-60 mph time below 5.0 seconds.
Absent is the brand’s new 8-speed auto, in favor of a trusty 5-speed auto-box from the previous gen. It does offer two transmission modes, however, with an optional Sport mode for aggressive driving.
With some aggressive yet still stylish bodywork including a custom front fascia and blacked-out grille the 300 SRT8 sits half an inch lower and rolls on 20-inch wheels. A Black Chrome package adds on some extra black trim pieces as well as some mean black wheels. Hinting at the power hidden under the hood are massive 4-inch exhaust tips.
To help keep this massive sedan stuck to the ground in the corners is an Adaptive Damping Suspension (ADS) system that takes into account variable like vehicle speed, steering angle, brake force and even lateral and vertical gs. And to slow the big machine there’s a massive set of Brembo brakes with 14.2 inch rotors up front and 13.8-inchers at the rear.
Inside the cabin is upgraded with real carbon fiber trim, plus there’s the 8.4-inch touch screen display that allows you to access many of the car’s tech functions and even measure performance data like 0-60 times, and lateral g-forces. And in case the V8 rumble isn’t enough for you Chrysler does offer an optional 900-watt 19-speaker Harmon Kardon audio system.
Look for live photos from the car’s reveal at the New York Auto Show today.
GALLERY: 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8
With AutoGuide from its launch, Colum previously acted as Editor-in-Chief of Modified Luxury & Exotics magazine where he became a certifiable car snob driving supercars like the Koenigsegg CCX and racing down the autobahn in anything over 500 hp. He has won numerous automotive journalism awards including the Best Video Journalism Award in 2014 and 2015 from the Automotive Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC). Colum founded Geared Content Studios, VerticalScope's in-house branded content division and works to find ways to integrate brands organically into content.
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LOOKS AWESOME! Hope it handles better than the 2010 model. Don't know what Ryan drives,but I would take an American sport sedan over an Audi or Bimmer. Great job Chrysler !!!!
The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 already has the same 6.4L engine putting out 470HP and 470lb-ft of torque.