End of an Era: Chrysler Reveals Final 300C Sedan

Chrysler chose the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit to announce the end of the venerable 300 sedan. There had been speculation that the show’s big reveal would be a new version of the Airflow EV concept, but instead the company is winding up the 300 line with a bang. 

The Chrysler 300 nameplate dates back to 1955, but the current version was rebooted in 2005 as the brand’s full-size sedan offering. With its long, low, slab-sided look, the 300 made a visual and performance impact, especially in the years when a high-performance SRT (Street & Racing Technology) version was available. 

“We’re celebrating the Chrysler 300 and its iconic legacy in the automotive world,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand chief executive officer. “The Chrysler 300 changed the automotive world in so many ways, and we will carry that spirit of ingenuity forward as we transform Chrysler with a fully electrified future and breakthrough customer experiences.”

Chrysler announced it will produce 2,000 examples of the 300C for the U.S. market, plus an additional 200 copies for sale in Canada. You’ll write a check for $55,000 — assuming no dealer markups — for the limited edition model in the U.S. 

300C final edition

The 2023 Chrysler 300C will carry the brand’s naturally aspirated 392-cubic-inch, 6.4-liter Hemi V-8 engine, rated at 485 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. Engine power is passed to the rear wheels through the usual TorqueFlite 8-speed automatic transmission. Additional performance features include red four-piston Brembo brakes, a 3.09 limited slip differential, active damping suspension, active exhaust system and black exhaust tips. 

With this package, the 300C will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, within a few tenths of the Chevrolet Camaro LT1 or Mustang GT. The big Chrysler covers the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 160 mph.

Inside, the 300C will feature black leather upholstery with heated and ventilated front seats. The front seats are also embossed with the new 300C logo with silver contrast stitching. The silver threadwork also reaches the doors and leather-wrapped instrument panel, with carbon fiber and piano black touches on the interior trim. The steering wheel will be leather-wrapped and heated. 

For infotainment, the 2023 300C will include a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and the 8.4-inch Uconnect infotainment system. Smart phone integration for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is supported. Advanced safety features include brake assist, lane departure warning and full speed collision warning.

Interested buyers can place a reservation now at reservation.chrysler.com. Buyers will be required to select an exterior color, select a dealer, and submit a deposit.

An electric future for Chrysler

The discontinuation of the 300 sedan leaves Chrysler selling only the Pacifica minivan after next year. The Pacifica is available in gas-fueled and plug-in hybrid variants. The brand also touts the Chrysler Airflow concept electric vehicle on its retail website, along with a statement promising a full line-up of EVs by 2028. However, Chrysler has not announced any production EVs at this time.