Lighter than the 5-speed unit it replaces, the 845RE transmission will help reduce fuel consumption by "double digits", according to Head of Transmission and Driveline Engineering, Mirceau Gradu.
It's certainly smooth. The extra gearsets enable the sedan to cruise effortlessly, yet conserve fuel by keeping the RPMs low. Knocking the shift lever into "Sports" mode holds the revs a little higher and quickens the gear changes for livelier, more responsive driving. 300S models come with steering wheel-mounted, die-cast paddles for more driver engagement.
Although off-the-line power doesn't come close to the neck-snapping, hit-the-seat-back grunt of the 470-hp SRT8, the lightweight 292-hp Pentastar V6 when combined with the 8-speed gearbox is plenty lively and fun.
Canadian drivers will no doubt appreciate the AWD availability on all V6 models, given our treacherous winter roadways. The system automatically disengages the front axles when not needed, lessening fuel consumption.
As far as fun-to-drive factor goes, I preferred the lighter RWD model; steering was quicker and it showed a livelier character on the handling track.
The 8-speed transmission is only available with the Pentastar V6 models for now. Regular HEMI- and SRT8-powered 300s will have to make do with the current 5-speed.
Pity.
Combined with the new 845RE, the V6 drivetrain offers good fuel economy – and is lively enough to make it a compelling choice, rather than a compromise.
It's certainly smooth. The extra gearsets enable the sedan to cruise effortlessly, yet conserve fuel by keeping the RPMs low. Knocking the shift lever into "Sports" mode holds the revs a little higher and quickens the gear changes for livelier, more responsive driving. 300S models come with steering wheel-mounted, die-cast paddles for more driver engagement.
Although off-the-line power doesn't come close to the neck-snapping, hit-the-seat-back grunt of the 470-hp SRT8, the lightweight 292-hp Pentastar V6 when combined with the 8-speed gearbox is plenty lively and fun.
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| As far as fun-to-drive factor goes, I preferred the lighter RWD model; steering was quicker and it showed a livelier character on the handling track. (Photo: Chrysler) |
Canadian drivers will no doubt appreciate the AWD availability on all V6 models, given our treacherous winter roadways. The system automatically disengages the front axles when not needed, lessening fuel consumption.
As far as fun-to-drive factor goes, I preferred the lighter RWD model; steering was quicker and it showed a livelier character on the handling track.
The 8-speed transmission is only available with the Pentastar V6 models for now. Regular HEMI- and SRT8-powered 300s will have to make do with the current 5-speed.
Pity.
Combined with the new 845RE, the V6 drivetrain offers good fuel economy – and is lively enough to make it a compelling choice, rather than a compromise.
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