Since its reintroduction in the 2005 model year, the Chrysler 300 has been an iconic car that punched above its weight class. Befitting that legacy, Stellantis is sending the sedan into retirement with quite the bang: the 2023 Chrysler 300C.
Forget a gold watch for this retiree. The 300C is being sent out to pasture with an eye toward performance. It features a 6.4-liter, 392-cu.-in. HEMI engine with 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque. Its 0-60 time is 4.3 seconds, and the quarter-mile disappears in 12.4 seconds. The naturally aspirated engine is paired with a TorqueFlite eight-speed transmission that offers maximum performance with 160-millisecond shifts.
Performance is further enhanced with four-piston Brembo brakes, a 3.09 limited-slip differential, active damping suspension, and active exhaust system. While not adding a whit to performance, black rounded exhaust tips are a nice styling touch.
The 300C rides on 20-by-9-inch forged wheels with all-season performance tires. The tires do seem appropriate for a retiree. Consider them the Sketchers of tires because “all-season performance” is an oxymoron.
Of course, the 300 sedan has not been known just for its performance. It’s always benefited from some of the best interior features in the Chrysler lineup. The 2023 300C has carbon-fiber accents, black Laguna leather front sport seats embossed with the 300C logo and silver stitching accents, and such premium features as a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, advanced brake assist, lane departure warning plus, and full speed collision warning plus.
It’s a shame to see the 300 riding off into the sunset. Even its base models have delivered an excellent combination of ride, performance, technology, and design. Confusing the 300 with other models on the road was never a problem.
Chrysler is now taking reservations for the 2023 Chrysler 300C, which has an MSRP of $55,000. If you want one, act fast. Only 2,000 will be sold in the U.S., with an additional 200 in Canada. You may get away with paying MSRP. The 300 lacks a rabid fan base that will inspire dealer markups.
