Press Kit: 2005 Chrysler 300 Launch

• All-New 2005 Chrysler 300 Combines Noble Proportions with Elegant Interior Appointments

Simply stated, the Chrysler 300 signals a dramatic new design direction that will make everything else on the road seem ordinary.

“We wanted to return to the proud, powerful lines that once made American automobiles the envy of the entire industry, but do so in a thoroughly modern way,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President – Design, DaimlerChrysler. “At the same time, we identified a dramatic new design direction that continues the Chrysler brand’s long-standing tradition of innovative design.”

The striking new proportions of the 300 were made possible by the decision to move the next generation of Chrysler sedans to rear-drive, after more than 10 years of award-winning "cab forward" front-drive designs. Used widely among premium and luxury brands, the rear-drive configuration gave company designers the freedom to sculpt a longer hood and noble proportions, while maintaining a spacious interior package.

“Modern elegance and innovation have always been hallmarks of the Chrysler brand, and the 300 illustrates those values in a very strong and proud way, just as the first ‘letter series’ C-300 did nearly 50 years ago,” noted Creed.

A NOBLE PRESENCE
From the front, the Chrysler 300 will not be mistaken for any other automobile on the road. The 300 wears the most elegant execution of the Chrysler "face" yet—the grille is tall and bold, inspired by the memorable V-10 powered Chronos concept car that made its debut in 1998. The newly rendered Chrysler wings flow seamlessly into the grille header and contain the gold seal of the brand, providing a proud and instantly recognizable design cue.

The headlamp shape supports the new face of Chrysler. Interior components of headlamps and tail lamps have been given the attention of fine jewelry. The headlamp on the Chrysler 300C model employs a projector low beam lamp for world-class lighting performance contained in a unique circular lamp bezel which calls attention to itself because of its design and precise execution. The inboard circular shape in the bezel is smaller in size and contains a conventional high beam packaged under a park and turn lamp. The circular theme is carried into the tail lamp as well with a prominent circular shape containing the stop function at the top of the lamp. This lamp also has a unique horizontal stripe graphic delineating turn and back-up functions and pays homage to the Chrysler 300 from the late Fifties. 

Special attention was given to the design of the exterior mirrors and door handles. The mirrors were shaped in the wind tunnel to maximize aerodynamic efficiencies and minimize the mass of the structural components to achieve a light and unobtrusive appearance. The chrome or body color mirror head supports the upscale appearance objective. The door handles as well are a new “pull style” design which look substantial, feel good in the hand, and add to the overall upscale appearance of the car.

The body is finished off by a handsome body color and bright molding that carries on to the front fender. On the Chrysler 300C this molding is integrated into a badge that carries the name 300 with the word “HEMI®” underneath it, letting everyone know that there is something special under the hood. 

Large tires on available 18-inch wheels suggest ample reserves of power. The large 10-spoke rims leave plenty of room for serious brake hardware. Chromed dual exhaust pipes on the 300C model announce the long-awaited return to HEMI V-8 power and performance after nearly 50 years for a Chrysler car.

“The new Chrysler 300 embodies what we call a holistic approach to design,” said Creed. “Every line, every angle and every proportion must not only work together inside and out, but provide a visual promise for the rest of the automobile, including the driving experience."

HANDCRAFTED INTERIOR FEEL
In keeping with this holistic approach, Chrysler 300’s interior continues the noble, proud themes of the exterior, with a more upright windshield and seating position which offers a spacious feel. The seating position itself has been raised two-and-a-half inches higher than the Chrysler 300M to enhance the command-of-the-road feel and aid in easy ingress and egress. Distinctive materials and textures provide a handcrafted feel and provide an upscale feeling to the interior.

“Chrysler 300’s beauty is more than skin deep,” said Creed. “We paid a lot of attention to the small details, individual appointments and fits, which together convey a feeling of richness to both the driver and passengers.”

Tortoise shell, on the Chrysler 300C model for example, is used on the steering wheel rim, shifter knob and inside door pulls, complemented by chrome door handles and other accents inspired by the 1998 Chrysler Chronos show car.

Evolving the design seen on the current award-winning Chrysler 300M, a four-gauge instrument cluster with light silver faces and chrome trim rings convey a precision appearance setting the new standard for all Chrysler cars. The center stack of the instrument panel contains an analog clock and highlights the new HVAC controls and radios which were designed with minimal gaps and efforts to achieve a precise feel and world class appearance objectives. A new premium radio with an integrated navigation system is also available. The center stack area is available in a variety of finishes depending on the model, and includes satin silver on the Chrysler 300C. The centerpiece of the center console is the shift knob finished in available premium leather and tortoise shell which highlights the new gated shifter and five speed automatic transmission for greater driving enjoyment.

A two-tone color treatment on the interior featuring light colored lower surfaces conveys spaciousness and gives the Chrysler 300 a sporty, yet opulent feel inside. The rear seats have a center folding armrest with integral cup holder, and are configured with a 60/40 split for added versatility.

“Just like the all-new 2004 Pacifica and Crossfire, the Chrysler 300 embodies the very essence of the Chrysler brand, while evoking the proud lines that once made the American automobile such an icon,” said Creed.