Chrysler 300C (2012) returns to the UK

Chrysler UK has announced pricing and specification for the new-to-you Chrysler 300C saloon. Right-hand drive markets have had to wait for the new 300C, which first launched in 2011 at the Detroit Motor Show; it's on sale in North America as a Chrysler, and currently available to Continental customers as a Lancia Thema...

Stylewise, the new 300C echoes the squat, angular look of its predecessor. But while the exterior looks familiar, Chrysler has significantly updated the interior, moving beyond DaimlerChrysler-era silver plastics to a more class-competitive dashboard and interior trim. The 300C's imposing appearance is befitting of a big car – five metres long, and with a 3052mm wheelbase that shades an Audi A8, let alone the A6 – but dimensionally the exec class has grown to a similar size since the first 300C swaggered into showrooms in 2004.

There will be two specification levels, both powered by the higher-tune 236bhp/398 lb ft 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine used in the Thema. On the fuel economy front Chrysler is claiming a combined economy figure of 39.8mpg, and emissions of 185-191g/km depending on the wheels/tyres specified. Those figures put the 300C at the torquier end of the 3.0-litre diesel exec class, but battling the Infiniti M30d at the lower end of the thrifty-and-green front. With European big car buyers' preference for diesel there's no sign of the 3.6-litre V6 or 'Hemi' 5.7-litre V8 petrol engines offered in other markets.

The 300C will be available in £35,995 Limited or £39,995 Executive trim levela. Highlights include adaptive cruise control, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, blind-spot monitoring system, keyless entry, touchscreen multimedia system and what Chrysler proclaims will be 'the largest sunroof in its segment'. Sales begin in June 2012.

By Mark Hamilton