2023 Chrysler 300C Is A Rowdy 6.4-liter HEMI V8 Farewell To An American Classic

The Chrysler 300C epitomized cool when it was resurrected in 2005 with rear-wheel drive, a HEMI V8, and an upscale design. Now, nearly 20 years later, the company is saying farewell to the 300 with a limited edition 300C that builds on the legacy of the old SRT variant.

Starting under the hood, the 6.4-liter HEMI V8 makes a triumphant return and it’s sporting 485 hp (362 kW / 492 PS) and 475 lb-ft (644 Nm) of torque. That’s a sizable leap over the 5.7-liter HEMI V8, which churns out a more modest 363 hp (271 kW / 368 PS) and 394 lb-ft (534 Nm) of torque.

Also Read: 2023 Chrysler 300 Getting Minor Update And A Mysterious Special Edition

While it’s not the Hellcat that many fans were hoping for, it enables the 2023 Chrysler 300C to rocket from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 4.3 seconds. If drivers keep their foot planted, the model will run the quarter mile in 12.4 seconds and eventually hit a top speed of 160 mph (257 km/h).

The engine is connected to an eight-speed automatic transmission, which is geared for “maximum performance” and can shift in a mere 160 milliseconds. Buyers will also find a limited-slip differential and a four-piston Brembo braking system with red calipers. They’re joined by an adaptive damping suspension and an active exhaust that pumps the sound of the roaring V8 through two sizable tips.

The 300’s design has withstood the test of time and Chrysler isn’t messing with success as the high-performance model has a relatively low-key appearance. However, there are a few telltale clues including a tri-color 300C badge on the grille. It’s joined by a rear spoiler and 20-inch forged wheels that are wrapped in all-season performance tires. Elsewhere, there are darkened lighting units, black chrome trim, and a limited color palette that includes Gloss Black, Velvet Red, and Bright White.

While the car eschews its once trademark tortoise shell-inspired trim, buyers will find black leather front seats with heating and ventilation as well as embossed 300C logos. They’re joined by silver contrast stitching, carbon fiber trim, and piano black accents. We can also see alloy pedals and an 8.4-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

We can expect to learn full details closer to its launch next spring, but Chrysler confirmed the model will come equipped with a heated steering wheel as well as an assortment of driver assistance systems. Among the latter are Advanced Brake Assist, Lane Departure Warning Plus, and Full Speed Collision Warning Plus.

Chrysler is currently accepting reservations and pricing starts at $55,000 before destination ($1,695). That’s pretty reasonable and fans better act fast as only 2,000 units will be offered in the United States. It will be even rarer in its home country of Canada, where just 200 units will be available.

This story has been updated with live photos from the Detroit Auto Show floor. You can follow our coverage of NAIAS here.