The Chrysler 300 SRT8 is not interested in subtlety. It is a large American performance sedan with a 6.4-litre HEMI V8, and it presents that fact with considerable confidence.
The engine produces 347kW and 637Nm. Rear-wheel drive takes all of that to the road through a five-speed automatic. The 300 SRT8 reaches 100 kilometres per hour in around five seconds. Considering its size and mass, that's a number that takes a moment to process.
The SRT suspension tuning is noticeably firmer than the standard 300 range. On smooth roads it handles with real composure for a sedan of these dimensions. Brembo brakes with six-piston front calipers provide progressive, strong stopping power.
Inside, the SRT8 gets Alcantara suede, SRT-badged door sills, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a 19-speaker sound system. The fit and finish is a step up from where Chrysler was a few years ago.
Rear seat space remains generous. The 300 SRT8 can serve as a performance daily driver without asking passengers to make significant compromises.
Fuel consumption will be substantial. The HEMI does not reward restraint. But buyers arriving at a Chrysler dealer to discuss the SRT8 have already made peace with that.
This is a specific kind of car for a specific kind of buyer. For that buyer, it's difficult to find better value in the performance sedan segment.
