Launched in 2011, the second-generation Chrysler 300->ke937 received a facelift for the 2015 model year. The update brought a much larger grille, revised LED headlamps, a sportier rear end,and higher-quality materials on the inside. However, the facelifted second-gen 300 also came with a bit of bad news, as Chrysler decided to discontinue the Hemi-powered SRT model. Although the beefed-up sedan did get a similar refresh, Pentastar decided to sell it only in markets such as Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and the Middle East.

With a third-generation model set to arrive sometime in 2017, you'd be tempted to think that the current 300 will be left to go out of production without much hubbub. Fortunately, Chrysler->ke21 won't let that happen just yet and the 300S Alloy Edition that's scheduled to break cover at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show->ke225 is proof that the full-size four-door is alive and kicking.

Available on the 300S trim with all-wheel drive and a choice of two drivetrains, the 300S Alloy Edition will be launched alongside a similar version of the smaller 200S.

“Chrysler brand embodies Detroit style, and our new 200S and 300S Alloy Editions are a perfect meld of our engineering innovation and craftsmanship, forged with cutting-edge colors and materials inspired by the Motor City’s ingenuity and creativity,” said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Car Brands of FCA North America.

Updated 02/16/2016: We added a series of new images taken during the car's official debut at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. Check the "Pictures" tab to see them.

Continue reading to learn more about the Chrysler 300S Alloy Edition.

What makes the Chrysler 300S Alloy Edition special

The 300 sedan has always received interesting special-edition models, the Alloy Edition package is no exception from that rule. Developed to further enhance the vehicles Detroit-born style, the Alloy Edition builds on the 300S' high level of standard equipment and adds styling features you won't be able to get on a regular model, regardless of trim.

Up front, the special-edition sedan sports a grille finished in Dark Bronze, while the mesh is Gloss Black and features a Titanium badge. The grille in the bumper received similar treatment and the LED foglamp surrounds are also finished in Dark Bronze. The exclusive and elegant theme continued onto the sides with 20-inch, Dark Bronze wheels (19-inch for AWD models) and around back with a bronze "300S" lettering, and titanium-plated Chrysler badge and exhaust tips. Rounding out the exterior are body-colored rear fascia trim, side mirrors, and subtle Gloss Black accents for both the headlamps and taillights.

The sedan can be ordered in one of five exterior colors, which, according to Chrysler, amplify the Dark Bronze, Titanium and Black Gloss finishes. The color palette includes Gloss Black Clear Coat, Black Forest Green Pearl Coat, Redline Tri-coat Pearl, Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat and Bright White Clear Coat.

The sleek four-door is equally elegant on the inside, where the black upholstery received exclusive black Nappa leather with Caramel accent stitching and numerous Titanium and Piano Black inserts on the center stack, dashboard, steering wheel, instrument cluster, and door panels. Completing the interior is a bespoke clock atop the infotainment screen. Unlike the one offered in the standard model, it has a dark-colored analog face and Piano Black surround. Fancy!

Motivation for the 300S Alloy Edition comes from one of two powerplants. First up is the 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 rated at 300 horsepower and 264 pound-feet of torque, unchanged from the standard model. This unit mates to a TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission and an adaptive all-wheel drive system that can be adjusted to two-wheel drive for maximum fuel efficiency. Those in need of more power can order the Alloy Edition with the 5.7-liter, Hemi V-8. Output is identical to the regular model and sits at 363 horsepower and 394 pound-feet of twist. However, the Hemi can't be had with AWD, meaning you'll have to trade all-weather traction for the extra 63 horses and 130 pound-feet.

Pricing for the 300S Alloy Edition starts from $35,965, not including destination, which represents a $500 premium over the base 300S. Considering the exclusive exterior features and the fancy upholstery, the Alloy Edition is quite a good deal.

Chrysler 300S

Updated for the 2015 model year, the Chrysler 300 got a mild makeover inside and out. The refresh included a much larger grille with a new mesh and revised LED headlamps, a chrome Mobius strip for the lower grille, revised taillight clusters, and a prominent trunk lid spoiler for the Hemi-powered version. Inside, Chrysler added higher-quality materials, more wood and aluminum inserts, and a reshaped center console with a cleaner and more classy design. A standard seven-inch display and the brand's latest Uconnect system also found their way into the sedan. The 300 remained unchanged under the hood, but Chrysler finally ditched the six-speed automatic transmission in favor of the then-new TorqueFlite, eight-speed gearbox.

Read our full review on the Chrysler 300S here.