All-Wheel Drive Added to New Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum

To provide the all-wheel drive models with even greater traction, Electronic Stability Program (ESP) will once

With a 38 percent front and 62 percent rear power ratio, the rear-wheel bias should add a touch of oversteer which is optimal for performance driving. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

again be standard, as will All-speed Traction Control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and Emergency Brake Assist. Such active safety features, combined with the strong road-holding capabilities already engineered into the LX chassis architecture, will make for a more stable Dodge Magnum and Chrysler 300, while improving each car's behind-the-wheel entertainment value.

Chrysler Group's all-wheel drive system includes a front differential and a transfer case added to the standard rear-wheel drive layout. The all-wheel drive system continuously apportions power between the front and rear axles at a 38 percent to 62 percent ratio, providing a rear-wheel bias which should add a touch of oversteer, optimal for performance driving. This is the basic philosophy that causes Mercedes-Benz 4Matic models, as well as BMW Xi and Infiniti X models to feel similar to their rear-wheel drive

Chrysler has reportedly tuned the steering gear effort and response to the unique handling characteristics of the all-wheel-drive cars. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

siblings while offering the benefits of all-wheel drive traction. Such attention to premium-level details will continue to make the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum, in rear- or all-wheel drive configurations, popular alternatives for import buyers who are trading in much more expensive imported models.

To accommodate the front differential, transfer case, front drive axle and other all-wheel drive components, Chrysler engineers have added a unique short- and long-arm front suspension. It incorporates a forged upper control arm and single-piece case-iron lower control arm. Chrysler has also reportedly tuned the steering gear effort and response to the unique handling characteristics of the all-wheel-drive cars.