Chrysler introduces entry-level 300 SRT8 from $56,000

Chrysler Australia has introduced the Chrysler 300 SRT8 Core to its local line-up, joing the 300 Limited, 300C and SRT8 in an expanded range. Developed specifically for the Australian market, the 300 SRT8 Core is positioned below the Luxury Car Tax threshold at $56,000.

With a focus on pure performance, the SRT8 Core is powered by Chrysler’s 6.4-litre Hemi V8 that pushes out 347kW of power and 631Nm of torque, it is one of the world’s most powerful naturally aspirated V8 engines.

The engine is equipped with Chrysler’s latest Fuel Saver Technology multiple-displacement system (MDS), which deactivates half of the engine’s cylinders over a broad range of operating conditions.

By combining cylinder deactivation with variable valve timing (VVT) and interactive decal fuel shut off (iDFSO), the Core’s Hemi V8 engine is said to reduce fuel use by 5-20 per cent depending on driving conditions.

The SRT8 Core, which will sit alongside the fully loaded SRT8, can be distinguished with 20-inch alloy wheels featuring twin five-spoke design, machined face and black-out paint treatment in the spoke pockets. A ‘CORE’ badge on its bootlid and ‘HEMI 6.4L’ badging further differentiates it from the SRT8.

As suggested by its name, the Core is a back to basics model and misses out on some of the more expensive model’s equipment, such as adaptive dampers, blind spot monitoring and reversing camera.

Inside, the Core lacks leather seats and seat ventilation up front, and heated seats in the second row. Adaptive cruise control has also been deleted.

However, the full SRT experience can still be had with SRT performance suspension, launch control and the 8.4-inch Uconnect multimedia touchscreen display with SRT Performance Pages, which displays specific SRT performance data and information.

The SRT8 Core is available in eight exterior colours – Gloss Blac, Ivory tri-coat pearl, Billet Silver metallic, Jazz Blue pearl, Granite crystal metallic pearl, Deep Cherry Red crystal pearl, Phantom Black tri-coat pearl and Bright White.