First look: Chrysler unveils 300C SRT-8 Touring

THE standard version of Chrysler’s 300C Touring wagon is set to arrive Down Under later this year – and now Chrysler Australia executives are keen to bolster the range in 2007 with the new 317kW SRT version unveiled at Geneva last week.

With a 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engine, performance-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes, the SRT-8 Touring not only looks the part but has the performance to match.

To get the extra performance, engine breathing was increased with new high-flow cylinder-heads, a specially designed intake manifold, performance camshafts and improved exhaust headers.

The twin exhausts are also routed through a larger-diameter 70mm exhaust system (up by 10 per cent) with 90mm chrome tailpipes.

SRT engineers also increased the V8’s peak engine speed to 5800rpm from 5400rpm.

The SRT-8 Touring connects with the road via a new wheel-and-tyre assembly consisting of 20-inch alloy SRT performance wheels. Up front, there are 360mm ventilated disc brakes, with 350mm ventilated discs at the rear.

Before the SRT-8 version arrives, Chrysler will offer the 300C Touring with a 3.5-litre V6, 5.7-litre HEMI V8 and 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel engine.