First Oz Look: Chrysler goes for luxury

CHRYSLER’S 300C luxury car has made its local debut at the Melbourne motor show, more than 12 months before it goes on sale here.

To be offered with the choice of a 5.7-litre V8 engine mated to a five-speed auto or 3.5-litre/four-speed auto combination, the rear-wheel drive 300C is intended to be a direct competitor for the locally-built Ford and Holden long wheelbase offerings.

In 250kW/525Nm V8 guise the 300C can acclerate from 0-100km/h in 6.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h. The engine also features cylinder deactivation, which reduces fuel consumption by turning the engine into a four-cylinder when V8 power is not needed.

Chrysler Jeep Australia managing director Gerry Jenkins said pricing was still being discussed with Chrysler Group headquarters in the US but considering local luxury cars are being targeted, it suggests pricing that stretches from around $55,000 to $75,000 at today’s money.

“300C’s introduction marks an important new chapter in the evolution of our brand and is one of the most important episodes of our continuing product offensive,” Mr Jenkins said.

“By 2007 we will give the Chrysler brand it’s most competitive line-up ever in Australia and it is a clear indication that we are strongly committed to developing our business here’” Before the 300C gets here Chrysler intends to launch the Crossfire Cabrio in the third quarter of 2004 with a premium over the coupe of $10,000 to $15,000.

The PT Cruiser convertible is also under consideration and Mr Jenkins is optimistic about a business case being approved.

The Crossfire SRT performance car to be launched at the Geneva motor show this week is also being investigated for right-hand drive markets.

As previously reported, Dodge will become the Chrysler Group’s third brand sold in Australia from 2006. While the line-up has not been confirmed, Mr Jenkins said it would be passenger car based.