CHRYSLER 300C Touring Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Launched in 2005 as a 2006 model, Chrysler 300C Touring SRT8 was the station-wagon version for the Chrysler 300C, but with a much more powerful engine.

The special version was available for Australia and Europe only, while in the U.S. the fast-station wagon was produced as a Dodge Magnum. The inside quality materials were different and the Chrysler management decided to push the 300C sales with the introduction of a flagship fast enough to take on the likes of Audi RS6 Avant and the BMW M5 Touring.

Viewed from the front, the special version didn't offer any clue about the massive power underneath the hood. It looked like a regular 300C Touring, with the same grid-style grille and headlights. No special air-vents or massive spoiler was installed. It was a factory-sleeper car.

The interior of the Chrysler 300C Touring was large enough for five people. With its very big trunk of 770 liters (27.7 cu-ft), which could have been extended to 2010 liters (71.1 cu-ft) with the rear seats folded down, it was a very good alternative to a very fast MPV.

For the engine compartment, Chrysler 300C SRT8 version came with the 6.1-liter Hemi engine, which produced 425 hp mated to a standard 5-speed automatic transmission. Its platform was a mix of Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with the rear axle carried over from the German partner. The car was developed during the DaimlerChrysler Alliance time.

Chrysler unveiled the station wagon version of its 300C sedan at the 2004 Geneva Motor Show and tried to sell it on the European market, but with little success.

When Daimler and Chrysler were in the same boat, the German carmaker gave one of its platforms to its American platform to develop the Chrysler 300C. The result was an excellent sedan with a mean look. But to increase its success in the European market, it had to have a station wagon version. And that was the 300C Touring.

Featuring the same front fascia as its sibling, the 300C was an unusual sight on the European roads. It was just too big to fit the narrow streets of the Old Continent's towns and streets. And yet, the imposing front fascia with its odd-looking headlights attracted many customers. In the station wagon version, also known as Touring, the 300C featured a third side window behind the rear doors and a slightly descending roofline. At the back, the tailgate was tilted forward, trying to create a sporty appearance for the big vehicle.

Inside, the designers played it safe and combined the silver and gray colors on the dashboard, center console, and door cards. The steering wheel, on the other hand, was also available with wood finishes as an option. Unlike the sedan, the 300C Touring received a split-folding rear bench that could expand the trunk from 630 liters (22.2 cu-ft) to 1,602 liters (56.6 cu-ft).

Since its platform was shared with one of the older Mercedes-Benz E-Class, it also received some of the German carmaker's engines and transmissions. Moreover, it was also available with an all-wheel-drive version.