What New in Chrysler 300C (2008)

Chrysler's standout 300 sedan gets a moderate revamp for the 2008 model year, starting with the exterior, where new front and rear fascias, a new grille and taillamps have been applied to its retro-influenced style.

Inside, the 300 gets a new set of instruments and a revised dash, along with new door trim panels and a reorganized center console. New soft-touch materials, new upholstery, and a relocated cruise control stalk also make the cut for 2008.

The standard engine on the rear-drive 300 is a 2.7-liter V-6 engine providing 178 hp. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. A 3.5-liter, 250-horsepower V-6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission comes with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel-drive Touring models and the Limited package. The 300C comes with the 5.7-liter, 340-horsepower HEMI V-8, five-speed automatic and either rear- or all-wheel drive.

The high-performance SRT8 version of the 300C continues for '07, offering a 425-horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI V-8, sport suspension, 20-inch rims, and other upgrades.

Traction control, side and curtain airbags, and anti-lock brakes are optional. So are a Bluetooth connection that features iPod connectivity for 2008; a six-disc changer; a MyGIG audio entertainment system; a Boston Acoustics speaker package; Sirius BackseatTV; remote start; and adaptive cruise control.

Chrysler 300C surprises United Kingdom value experts

Almost two years to the day from the original launch of the Chrysler 300C saloon in the UK, residual value experts have confirmed that the 300C has been a massive residual value success story.

Martin Ward, Manufacturer Relationship Manager for CAP, said: “A two year old diesel Chrysler 300C with 30,000 Miles on the clock is today worth an impressive 67 per cent of the £25,750 it cost when new. In contrast, a BMW 525D of a similar age that cost £31,115 in 2005 is currently worth £19,300 – that’s 62 per cent retained value.

“When you bear in mind that the initial cost of the Chrysler is much less, and it has better standard specification, the 300C represents excellent value for money as a new and used car.”

Peter Lambert, Managing Director of Chrysler Group UK, said: “We always knew that the 300C would be a big sales success and we have far exceeded our targets in the UK. With nearly 6000 sold in the UK, the saloon and Touring versions are in danger of becoming a common sight on our roads!”

“When we first launched the saloon in October 2005, closely followed by the Touring version in early 2006, we met with universal praise from customers and press. We did recognise however that the big test was always going to be the retained value of the cars after two or three years. Consistently strong results at auction and continuing high demand for new and used cars have all helped to make the 300C a long-term success story in the UK.”

Martin Ward added: “It has been a big surprise to the industry just how well the 300C has sold in the UK, and more importantly how well it has held on to its value. All previous large American designed and built cars have not performed anywhere near as well. The 300C styling has hit the spot with both new and used customers and even two years after its launch it is still attracting attention. The bold design is set to appeal to used car buyers for some years to come.”