2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Unveiled

Chrysler just keeps on showing new models and after the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, it was time for a new sedan to be shown to the public.

The 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 is going to make its debut today at the 2011 New York Auto Show. The new model features a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine capable of developing 465 horsepower and 465 pound-feet (630 Nm) of torque. The power increase over the old model is 40 hp and 45 lb-ft (61 Nm) of torque. The transmission available for the model is a five-speed automatic and in the near future, the automatic gearbox will be fitted with paddle shifters to allow drivers to shift some gears.

Performance figures are thrilling as the 300 SRT8 accelerates from 0 mph to 62 mph (100 km/h) in over 4 seconds and manages to cover a quarter mile (400 meters) in less then 13 seconds.

The most important aspect of a performance machine is braking power and the 300 SRT8 can not complain at this chapter. The sedan features 14.2-inch front rotors and 13.8-inch discs at the rear, while four-piston Brembo calipers assure braking power to be top level. With these components put in place, the 4,046 lbs (1,835 kg) performance sedan can stop from 62 mph (100 km/h) to 0 mph in just 120 feet (36.5 meters).

It's hard to believe that with all that performance this car can be economic too, but according to Chrysler, the 300 SRT8 is 25% more fuel efficient compared to the old version. This achievement was possible due to a new active valve exhaust system, which allows the 6.4 liter V8 engine to drop down to four-cylinder mode over a much wider RPM range than before.

The 300 SRT8 features Adaptive Damping Suspension that manages to monitor vehicle speed, steering speed and angles, brake torque, throttle position and acceleration in order to set up the suspension in any given situation.

Shock damping and comfort can be optimized with the selection of Auto or Sport modes. Inside the car we can find leather seats, heated steering wheel and SRT badging quite everywhere. Carbon fiber trim pieces decorate the dash and doors.

The Chrysler 300 SRT8 comes with all sorts of technology and gadgets like an Electronic Vehicle Information Center that can measure 0-62 mph, eighth mile and quarter mile times as well as braking distances. Every information is displayed on the large 8.4-inch LCD screen and the amount of data shown is interesting from steering and yaw angle to horsepower and torque outputs.

"We're bringing three new and distinct models to our 300 lineup in 2012 with the 300 SRT8, 300S Series and 300C Executive Series, each designed with specific consumer lifestyles in mind," said Olivier Francois, President and CEO - Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing.

"More than an icon of simple American motoring, the Chrysler 300 is an icon of attainable style and performance. For those customers who live for the sport of being first, the all-new Chrysler 300 SRT8 is the no compromises king of the hill, featuring the ultimate combination of world-class luxury and performance in our most powerful, best-handling sedan ever," he added.