A New Classic Proportion from Chrysler

* Chrysler 300C Concept Combines Noble Proportions With Elegant Interior Appointments

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., April 16 -- Simply stated, the Chrysler 300C concept 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 of Design, DaimlerChrysler. "At the same time, we identified a dramatic new design direction that continues the Chrysler brand's longstanding tradition of innovative design."

The striking new proportions of the 300C concept 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 an excellent interior package.

"Modern elegance and innovation have always been hallmarks of the Chrysler brand, and the 300C concept 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 300C will not be mistaken for any other automobile on the road. The 300C concept wears the most elegant execution of the Chrysler "face" yet -- a grille inspired by the memorable V-10-powered Chronos concept car that made its debut in 1998. This grille design, featuring the elegant Chrysler winged emblem, is the "master mold" for all future Chrysler vehicles, providing a proud and instantly recognizable design cue.

On either side of the grille are sculpted headlamps with high-intensity discharge projectors that immediately convey detailed precision, but in a very clean and elegant way. The front fascia has chrome bumper accents, conveying a rich yet solid appearance.

The long hood and short deck give the Chrysler 300C an unmistakably strong road presence, while its raised beltline and low glass-to-body ratio provide a sense of stability and protection. Chromed details, such as the body side moldings, door handles and window surrounds, add a touch of elegance without being overstated.

Large tires on 20-inch wheels suggest ample reserves of power, with the rear wheels wider than the front ones as in other high performance sedans to underscore the rear-drive layout. The large 10-spoke rims leave plenty of room for serious brake hardware.

The Chrysler 300C's crisp, clean lines continue to the rear, with subtle yet elegant detail found in the taillamps and the winged emblem. Chromed dual exhaust pipes announce the long-awaited return to HEMI(R) V-8 power and performance after more than 30 years for a Chrysler car.

"The new Chrysler 300C 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 300C's interior continues the noble, proud themes of the exterior, with a handcrafted feel and use of distinctive materials and textures throughout.

"Chrysler 300C'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, 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 chrome rims and a precision appearance are used in the 300C, setting the new standard for all Chrysler cars. The center of the instrument panel contains an analog clock, navigation system and heated seat switches.

The interior spaciousness is highlighted by a Deep Evergreen and Light Pumice two-tone treatment, which work together to give the Chrysler 300C a sporty, yet opulent feel inside. The rear seats are split 60/40, and fold down for added versatility.

The spaciousness of the Chrysler 300C is enhanced by the more upright windshield pillars and overall profile of the new exterior design, resulting in a seating position that is two-and-a-half inches higher than the current 300M. This design enhances a command-of-the-road feel and aids easy ingress/egress.

"The Chrysler 300C is a production-ready concept in which we have explored the pure emotional cues and spirit of the Chrysler brand," said Creed. "Just like the all-new 2004 Pacifica and Crossfire, the 300C will embody the very essence of the Chrysler brand, while evoking the proud lines that once made the American automobile such an icon."

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