2012 Chrysler 300S

2012 Chrysler 300S

The performance-tuned, muscle-bound 2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 may hog most of the limelight, but it isn't the only variant of the 300 sedan to receive some modification for the 2012 model year. Perhaps the most significant news lies with a new transmission: select V-6-powered cars will now be offered with an eight-speed automatic.
The news isn't all that surprising, considering Chrysler formally announced the gearbox last summer. The eight-speed automatic is licensed from German powertrain supplier ZF, and until Chrysler can fully retool its transmission plant in Kokomo, Indiana, the automaker will be buying completed transmissions directly from the supplier.
Although the new transmission may ultimately be available on all 300 V-6 models, for now, it's only confirmed for the new 2012 300S -- and only when built with both Chrysler's 3.6-liter V-6 and rear-wheel drive (opt for either all-wheel-drive or the 5.7-liter Hemi V-8, and you're relegated to the aging, Mercedes-Benz-derived five-speed automatic). The model, available with either V-6 or V-8 power , is much like the new 2012 200S in that it dresses up both the 300's interior and exterior appearance. Cosmetic tweaks include body-colored accents in the front fascia, a unique black chrome grille insert with matching black headlamp bezels, and large 20-inch polished aluminum wheels with black painted accents.
Inside, 300S models are treated to piaano black interior trim; a 10-speaker, 522-watt audio system developed by Beats by Dr. Dre; and cloth-trimmed 12-way power sport bucket seats up front. V-6 300S models are also available with the Luxury Package, which adds premium Nappa leather trim, a heated steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering colum, heated and cooled cup holders, satin chrome door sill accents, LED footwell accent lighting, and programmable memory functions for mirror, seat, and pedal settings. These features are standard on V-8-powered 300S models, as are LED-illuminated gauges, rain-sense windshield wipers, a back-up camera, and Homelink transponder.
Look for 2012 300 models, including both the 300S and 300C E

2012 Chrysler 300S

2012 Chrysler 300S

2012 Chrysler 300S