After eagerly waiting for eight months, we finally took delivery of our highly anticipated 2023 Chrysler 300C last month. The 300C represents the “Last Call” for the current generation of the iconic 300 sedan. With the brand’s impending transition to all-electric vehicles by 2028, this may very well be the last HEMI® powered Chrysler ever produced.
Beneath its sleek exterior, the 2023 Chrysler 300C hides a formidable 6.4-liter (392 cubic-inch) HEMI® V8 engine, packing a punch with 485 horsepower and 475 lb.-ft. of torque. This impressive powertrain is paired with a fast-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, propelling the 300C from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds. With a quarter-mile time of 12.4 seconds at 118 mph and a drag-limited top speed of 160 mph, the 300C offers exhilarating performance.
Notable performance enhancements include red four-piston Brembo brakes, a 3.09 limited-slip differential, an active damping suspension, and black rounded exhaust tips that complement the throaty sound produced by the active exhaust system.
Step inside the 300C, and you’re greeted by a luxurious cabin that exudes refinement. The black Laguna leather front seats, adorned with the new 300C logo and enhanced with silver stitching, provide both comfort and style. The silver stitching extends to the doors and leather instrument panel, complemented by carbon fiber and Piano Black accents on the interior bezels. Chrysler has addressed previous issues by replacing some of the carbon-fiber trim pieces with more durable Piano Black touches on the upper door panels and instrument panel. However, it is worth noting that the continued use of halogen interior lights in premium performance offerings remains a disappointment.
In contrast to its sibling, the Charger Scat Pack, the Chrysler 300C offers a more understated and sleeper-like appeal. The absence of prominent badges allows the vehicle to deliver power and performance with subtlety. While the Charger embraces an in-your-face muscle car persona, the 300C caters to those seeking a blend of luxury and muscular performance.
Over the past month, we have taken the 300C to a few car events. We had the privilege of having Stellantis Head of Design, Ralph Gilles, sign underneath the hood of our 300C. As the key person responsible for bringing the conceptual sketches of the 300 by former Chrysler designer Robert Hubbach to production, Gilles described the vehicle as “an instant collector’s item.”
Moreover, displaying our new Bright White 300C next to a Black one at the Chrysler Employee Motorsport Association (CEMA) car show proved to be a magnet for Mopar fans of all ages, further solidifying its special status.
We recently received a box of Mopar goodies, including a cold-air intake and an ABS module cover, which we plan on installing in the next week. However, we will be addressing one minor detail that requires attention, which we will discuss in a follow-up article. So stay tuned.
