NEW YORK – Chrysler has expanded its 300 lineup with the 300S and 300C Executive models. Each model features more luxury styling and options. These models will be available in Chrysler showrooms in the third quarter of 2011.

For the Chrysler 300S, the all-new Chrysler 300S V-6 and V-8 models feature ride and handling improvements, discrete exterior styling elements, contemporary interior materials, and new technology features.

Performance

The 2012 Chrysler 300S V-6 model features the aluminum 3.6L Pentastar engine delivering 292 six-cylinder horsepower through an all-new ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. The driver can also utilize all-new steering-wheel mounted magnesium paddle shifters to manually select the desired gear.

For the Chrysler 300S V-8 model, this vehicle can produce 363 horsepower with the 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine. This engine features the company’s Fuel Saver Technology and a five-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and Auto Stick.

For inclement weather driving conditions, the all-new 2011 Chrysler 300S AWD models feature an active transfer case and front-axle disconnect system. This AWD system also is designed to improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent over competitive full-time all AWD systems, Chrysler stated.

The Chrysler flagship sedan’s AWD system seamlessly transitions between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and AWD with no driver intervention. When AWD is not required, the system automatically disconnects the front axle to maximize fuel economy without sacrificing performance or handling, according to the company.

For improved handling, the 300S features second-generation E-segment chassis architecture with 25 percent quicker steering and 20 percent heavier on-center feel than the entry-level 300 model, according to Chrysler.

Exterior Design

The 2012 300S features unique body-color fascia accents and mirrors, and black-accented headlamp bezels with matching sculpted horizontal grille blades in black chrome that replace bright chrome.

Additional design improvements for the all-new Chrysler 300S V-6 and V-8 models include larger 20-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black painted pockets, and wider all-season performance tires. The 2012 Chrysler 300S V-8 features performance-tuned suspension and larger performance disc brakes.

The Chrysler 300S V-6 and V-8 all-wheel-drive (AWD) models offer 19-inch polished-face aluminum wheels with black painted pockets, P235/55R19 all-season performance tires, and an advanced AWD system in its class, the company said.

Interior Design

The interior of Chrysler 300S models offer 12-way power driver and passenger front seats with large-bolstered and heated monotone cloth sport seats surrounded by an interior environment in black or Radar Red. The interior center stack, instrument panel, steering wheel, gauge cluster, and door panel elements come in Piano Black. Other interior elements include matte carbon hydrographic finished accents, replacing traditional burl wood.

When it comes to technology, the 300S features Chrysler’s Uconnect Touch, which also controls the high-definition 10-speaker Beats audio system.

Trim Levels

For the 300S V-6, when equipped with the optional Luxury Group, the Chrysler 300S V-6 includes premium Nappa leather sport seating in black or exclusive Radar Red, memory module that stores position of the driver seat, exterior mirror, steering wheel, pedal and radio for two drivers, heated rear seats, heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering column, power-adjustable pedals, power sunshade, vehicle security alarm, driver’s side auto-dimming mirrors and auto-tilt in Reverse, heated/cooled cup holders, trunk mat, satin chrome lower door sills with “Chrysler” logo, and LED illuminated front-footwells and front and rear map pockets.

For the 300S V-8, in addition to the features included on the Chrysler 300S V-6 with Luxury Group, the eight-cylinder 300S model adds 160-mph LED-illuminated instrument cluster, rain-sensing windshield wipers, Smartbeam headlamps, ParkView rear back-up camera, and HomeLink universal transceiver.

2012 Chrysler 300C Executive Series

Beyond the new 300S models, Chrysler also introduced the all-new 2012 Chrysler 300C Executive Series. The Chrysler 300C Executive Series combines ultra-premium leather, improved handling, a range of safety and connectivity features, and the 363 horsepower 5.7L HEMI V-8 engine with Fuel Saver Technology. Available in rear-wheel drive or AWD, the 2012 Chrysler 300C Executive Series models will arrive in Chrysler dealerships in the fall of 2011.

Exterior Design

On the exterior, the Chrysler 300C features a platinum chrome finish, which replaces chromed fascia, mirror, and door handle accents. It also features a platinum-chrome finished grille surround with platinum-chrome sculpted grille blades (late availability).

Interior Design

Interior features found on the Chrysler 300C Executive Series include either Mochachino or Black Poltrona Frau “Foligno” leather-wrapped instrument panel, cluster brow, center console side panels, and upper front- and rear-door panels. Nappa leather covers the door armrest, bolster, and center console armrest.

Two-tone Mochachino or Black seats are wrapped in Nappa leather and include 12-way power-adjustable driver and front-passenger seats (including four-way power lumbar) with two-mode ventilation and two-mode heated seats for front and rear passengers. Other interior touches include specially selected Natural Pore Mocha or Pore Gray real wood trim finished in a low-gloss.

The 300C features Chrysler’s Uconnect Touch 8.4N with Garmin navigation, SIRIUS Traffic, and SIRIUS Travel Link. Additional interior features include 160-mph LED-illuminated instrument cluster with driver-selectable color EVIC, a heated and leather-wrapped steering wheel, power tilt and telescoping steering column with memory, power-adjustable pedals with memory, power backlight sunshade, 18-ounce berber floor mats with nubuck trim, satin chrome lower door sills with “Chrysler” logo, dual heated/cooled cup holders, ambient lit foot well lighting, LED illuminated interior door handles and front and rear map pockets, premium carpeted trunk mat, HomeLink universal transceiver and power-folding chromed exterior mirrors with memory, auto-dimming, and auto-tilt in Reverse.