Chrysler has launched its new 300 Luxury Series with what it has dubbed "the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler flagship ever." Coupling a ZF 8HP45 eight-speed automatic transmission to a 292 horsepower, 3.6-liter aluminum Pentastar V6 engine, the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series sedan gets 31 mpg (7.5 l/100 km) on the highway and 19 mpg (12.4 l/100 km) in the city, for a combined fuel economy figure of 23 mpg (10 l/100 km).
Chrysler says this is an improvement in fuel economy of up to 17 percent compared to previous generation six-cylinder Chrysler 300 AWD models. The new Chrysler 300 is available in RWD or, for a little more cash, with an AWD system that offers improved fuel economy. The AWD system features an active transfer case and front-axle-disconnect system so that when AWD isn't required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle and transitions between AWD and RWD without driver intervention.
As Chrysler's flagship, the car has a range of luxury trimmings including Italian leather interior with hand sanded wood finish, 12-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats, die cast paddle shifters and an 8.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Garmin navigation, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link. There's also power-adjustable pedals with memory, power backlight sunshade and dual heated/cooled cup holders.
The 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series joins the Chrysler 300C Luxury Series sedan, which boasts a 363 horsepower 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology. The 300 Luxury Series starts at US$40,145 for the RWD model and $42,495 for the AWD model.