The EFTM Garage – Chrysler 300 SRT8

We’ve already sampled the epic Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core. A brutal, hulking machine that produces an almost rude amount of 6.4-litre V8 power for a large luxury sedan. So we thought it would be more than appropriate to get our hands on its more well-healed counterpart, the top spec Chrysler 300 SRT8.

Make: Chrysler

Model: 300

Variant: SRT8

Engine / Transmission: 6.4L V8 petrol engine / 5-Speed automatic transmission

Vital Stats: Power 347 kW @ 6,100rpm / Torque: 631Nm @ 4,150rpm

Chrysler Claimed Fuel Economy: 13.0l/ 100km

EFTM Claimed Fuel Economy: 15.2l / 100KM

MRRP Price:  $66,000 (plus on-roads)

Wow Factor: Laced with gadgets including a plethora of performance pages providing analysis of driving performance. Safety technology such as radar Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind Spot Monitoring almost seem unworthy for such a masculine Yank tank. Upgraded silver Brembo brakes front and rear bite impressively. The Chrysler Uconnect system rivals Holden’s excellent MyLink interface.

Most Impressive: Adaptive damping suspension offers two modes, Auto and Sport. Along with the lowered ride hight it provides convincing cornering prowess. But at the end of the day it’s all about the 6.4-litre V8 Hemi and straight line speed, possibly the most fun you can have sitting down. A sub 5 second 0 – 100km/h sprint is very achievable.

Not So Impressive : Chrysler only half nail interiors. The leather seats are beautifully supportive, certain sections of the dash are elegant and well executed. The instrument cluster in particular and it’s lighting effects impress. But other parts are poorly aligned and dubious in quality. Five-speed auto is old school.