Chrysler moves up-market with the new 2012 300 Luxury Series.
No, there’s not any “Corinthian Leather,” but with the addition of the new Luxury Series Chrysler nudges the latest version of its big 300 sedan decidedly up-market.
It’s been quite some time the Detroit maker put its last true luxury entry, the old Imperial, out to pasture. But as part of the shake-up ordered by CEO Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler hopes to expand its line-up to cover all bases. It began its return into the high-line market with last year’s redesign of the full-size 300 line.
The previous sedan’s top model was the Chrysler 300C, with the emphasis placed on performance. The new model is giving buyers a choice. Yes, there’s still a “Hemi Inside,” if you want one on the 300C. But the 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series shifts towards a more refined – and fuel-efficient — direction.
Forget that Corinthian cowhide, the 300 Luxury Series shares Italian Poltrana Frau leather with the likes of Maserati and Alfa-Romeo.
Instead of the Corinthian cowhide the maker has opted for Poltrona Frau leather used by some of Chrysler’s Italian sibling brands, Alfa Romeo and Maserati, as well as some real, hand-sanded wood.
“The new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Edition is more than just our flagship car, it’s the trophy for the tireless majority, an automobile designed and built to meet the most discerning of expectations,” said Saad Chehab, President and CEO – Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.
Other distinguishing touches include platinum-chrome exterior trim pieces and a chromed rim on the heated steering wheel. The Chrysler 300 luxury series is loaded with most of the features you might otherwise check off on the option box, including 20-inch wheels and tires.
Chrysler bills the new luxury edition as not only its most lavishly equipped but also the most fuel-efficient of its full-sized sedans, its 292-horsepower 3.6-liter V-6 rated at 31 mpg on the highway. The all-wheel-drive package averages 17% better mileage than the old 300 AWD with a V-6.
Give some of the credit to the 8-speed automatic gearbox introduced with the second-generation 300 line. The 300 Luxury Series comes standard with paddle shifters, as well.
The 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series starts at $40,145 – including $825 in destination charges. A fully-loaded all-wheel-drive version will set you back $45,245