NAIAS Preview: 2010 Chrysler 300 S6, S8

With only the weekend left before the start of the 2010 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, the automotive scene heats up as manufacturers begin to release information on the cars to attend the event.

Among them, American manufacturer Chrysler announced the arrival of the 2010 Chrysler 300 S6 and S8, two "serious, low-key" versions of the 300. Both versions come with a distinctive look, which sets them apart from the mainstream 300, as well as with some serious mechanics under the hood and body.

The 300 S6 is powered by a 3.5l V6 engine, capable of developing 250 horsepower and able to return a 25 mpg highway fuel consumption. On the outside it features (as does the S8) full-chromed grilles and fascia accents for blacked-out grilles with chromed surround and body-color fascia accents, new darkened headlamp bezels, as well as 20-inch polished face wheels with painted pockets.

On the interior, both the 300 S6 and S8 add to the range a uniquely designed steering wheel with carbon weave, red stitching and brushed silver spokes, Dark Slate Gray leather front seats with embroidered “300 S” logo on the seatback and carbon-weave door-pull handles with red accent stitching.

Even more exciting than the 300 S6 (and more powerful) is the 300 S8, powered by a huge 5.7l HEMI V8 engine, which generates 360 horsepower and 527 Nm of torque. Paired with the five-speed Auto Stick transmission, the 300 S8 returns the same mileage as its little peer, despite the improved performances and increased displacement.

Infotainment in both models is insured thanks to a 13-speaker Kicker audio system with a 322-watt amplifier and 100-watt subwoofer, Uconnect Phone, iPod Control and SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

No pricing for the two has been announced yet, but we expect Chrysler to put a price tag on them soon, as both models will hit dealerships this spring.

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