SRT is no longer a separate brand and has returned to its position the tuning arm for all Chrysler->ke21 vehicles. Having showcased its most recent creations -- the astounding Challenger and Charger Hellcats -- SRT is now focusing on refreshed versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler 300.->ke937 Both vehicles are up for a facelift in 2015, which means their beefed-up siblings will arrive shortly after. However, while the Grand Cherokee SRT is scheduled to continue in a similar form, the 300 SRT is reportedly being phased out as a North American model.
That's the word from Auto News, which claims the high-performance sedan->ke142 will no longer be sold in the United States, but will continue in select right-hand-drive countries overseas.
The news is not exactly shocking, as Fiat-Chrysler's five-year plan makes no mention of the 300 SRT beyond 2015, which signals the nameplate's demise. However, it's surprising to see the sedan continue outside North America, which basically means outside its main market. An awkward decision if you ask me, but since Auto News quotes no actual sources, we'll have to wait for an official confirmation on those plans.
Auto News
Note: 2013 Chrysler 300 SRT8 pictured here.
Click past the jump to read more about Chrysler 300 SRT.0}
The 300 SRT is far from being the most popular performance vehicle coming from SRT, and that's exactly what makes this decision -- if true -- seem very strange. Sure, the 300 SRT has seen some success in the Middle East, where V-8-powered, gas-guzzling cars are highly popular, but it doesn't sound exactly feasible for a nameplate to continue for one more year in markets that are likely to absorb less units than North America would. Then again, maybe SRT is planning a final edition model with a whole lot more horsepower that we have yet to learn about. Only time will tell if this report is true or not.
Why it matters
The 300 SRT is the most powerful and arguably the most aggressive-looking version of the 300 sedan you can buy nowadays. Much like any other model SRT has meddled with, the 300 is distinguished by a unique front grille, a custom lower rear fascia, SRT exhaust tips and bespoke exterior paints. More goodies are offered inside, where SRT combines luxury with performance-oriented technology. Carbon-fiber trims, a Performance Package that measures acceleration, braking and g-forces, and premium leather are only a few of the options that buyer can selected.
Its main highlight, however, lies under the hood. The 6.4-liter V-8 cranks out 470 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque, which translates into 0-to-60-mph sprints of less than five seconds and a top speed of 175 mph. The oomph is backed by a high-performance braking system and an updated suspension. Pricing starts from $45,900 for the 2014 model year.