SPIED! 2012 Chrysler 300C SRT8

Looking for evidence that Chrysler is hard at work on a hot-rod version of the flagship 300C? Here’s the smoking gun.

Spy shooters have captured the 300C SRT8 with no camouflage, and details are overwhelming that this is the halo four-door for Chrysler. The test car even has SRT8 badges on the steering wheel and the tachometer.

There also are wheels that look like six-spoke SRT rollers, Brembo brakes and chrome dual exhaust.

Look for the 6.4-liter Hemi V8 in the Charger SRT8 to be used in the 300 sibling. The Dodge is rated at 465 hp and 465 lb-ft, so look for similar output in the Chrysler. Other carryover features likely will include the elaborate 8.4-inch touch screen in the middle and paddle shifters. Also note the heavily bolstered seats and the leather-wrapped steering wheel. A five-speed automatic will complete the powertrain.

The outside is marked by an angrier front fascia, a mesh grille and athletic rocker panels. The elegant taillight and headlight styles from the regular car are also present.

Chrysler hasn’t announced its New York auto show plans, but we’d be surprised if this hot rod from the Pentastar doesn’t have a spotlight role. And when Dodge boss Ralph Gilles introduced the Charger SRT8 in Chicago, he punctuated the event by planting a kiss on the front fender.

Chrysler honcho Olivier Francois, it’s your move.

By Greg Migliore