Chrysler 300C wows Sydney

IT was a long time coming, but the production 300C sedan hit Australian shores at the Sydney motor show yesterday, prior to its November release.

With an imposing shape based on Mercedes-Benz architecture, the big Chrysler has classic proportions that are sure to make it one of the most distinctive vehicles in the large-car segment.

Prices start from $53,990 for the 3.5-litre V6 and $59,990 for the 5.7-litre V8 Hemi, which features Chrysler’s fuel-saving multi-displacement cylinder deactivation system.

The V6 develops 186kW/338Nm and is mated to a four-speed auto while the muscular V8 develops 250kW/525Nm and comes with a five-speed sequential "AutoStick" auto.

Among the sedan’s standard features are traction and stability control, 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, rear parking radars and leather seats. Front and rear curtain airbags also come as standard and the 300C has been awarded a five-star crash rating by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.