Of course, there's another reason the media is salivating at the prospect of putting the new Chrysler through its paces. The next generation 300 will sport Chrysler's sensational 5.7-L HEMI V8, the first of its kind found in a Chrysler branded car in decades. I tested it last year in Dodge's recently updated heavy-duty Ram pickup, where it is tuned to deliver 345-hp and 375 lb-ft of torque, and was surprised at its amazingly quick acceleration despite the vehicle's even heavier curb weight.
Chrysler isn't making any definite statements as to the new car's engine output, in concept or production trim. Still, it's safe to say the HEMI V8 will produce well over 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, with a figure closer to 350 of each more likely. This will make for spirited performance, and mated with the Mercedes-Benz sourced 5-speed AutoStick actuated automatic transmission, a competent drivetrain.
The 300C's rack-and-pinion steering connects through to a leather clad steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise controls. Just a thought regarding this wheel Chrysler, it feels substantially thick but needs more comfortable thumb indents at the 9 o'clock and 3 o'clock positions. I couldn't find fault with anything else in the interior though. The seats are near perfect, cupping the posterior and backside with good side bolstering while fully supportive in the key areas. Their leather surfaces are top rate, mirroring the soft touch plastics and beautifully detailed metallic and tortoise shell accents - the latter a unique and especially attractive touch.