‘Imported from Detroit’ 300C goes AWD

The Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition is returning for 2014. For the first time, it will be offered with all-wheel drive with an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect for better fuel economy.

Fashion icon Varvatos put his stamp of approval on the special edition slab-sided sedan. It’s styled after the black-and-titanium-finished Varvatos cologne bottle with a titanium-finished grille surround, titanium Chrysler wing badge and a black chrome grille. Air inlets are moved lower and feature black chrome grille blades with titanium accents. In the rear, LED taillights sit above titanium dual exhaust tips with a Chrysler badge in the middle.

Inside, Varvatos logos are splashed on the seats covered with pewter metallic leather tailored with gray and black stitching. The gauge cluster is inspired by Varvatos’ latest watch design, while a hand-stitched leather steering wheel features gray thread and titanium accents.

As with the standard 300, the 292-hp, 3.6-liter V6 is standard, the 363-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is optional. An eight-speed transmission comes standard with the V6, the Hemi gets a six-speed. The JV edition also comes with a sport mode that offers quicker shifts and higher revs. Steering wheel-mounted paddles offer manual gear changes.

The 2014 Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition will cost $45,475 when it hits dealerships in March. The new AWD model starts at $47,975.

By Jake Lingeman