The Chrysler 300C has become a resounding success, garnering positive press, high customer satisfaction, and a halo effect benefiting the entire Chrysler lineup. Building on this momentum, Chrysler is exploring a stretched version of the 300C, potentially appealing to limousine services and enthusiasts if priced competitively.
Several factors motivate DaimlerChrysler’s interest in a stretched 300C:
* **Limo Market:** While not directly comparable to the Lincoln Town Car or Cadillac DTS, the 300C competes with the Ford Crown Victoria. A stretched 300C could attract taxi and limousine operators seeking to provide ample passenger space.
* **Pursuit Market:** The Ford Crown Victoria dominates the police pursuit vehicle market, followed by the Chevy Impala. With the stretched 300C, Chrysler could re-enter this market, increasing sales and market share. A stretched Dodge Charger might follow if the 300C proves successful.
* **Luxury Market:** Although the current 300C isn’t a luxury car, a future Chrysler Imperial is planned, potentially based on an even longer version of the stretched 300C. DaimlerChrysler will undoubtedly monitor the 300C’s demand to gauge interest in the upcoming Imperial.
The stretched 300C will reportedly feature a six-inch extension, entirely dedicated to rear passenger space. Chrysler will outsource the stretching process to a third-party supplier.
The price premium for the stretched 300C is estimated at up to $5,000 over the standard model. However, this high cost could deter some livery services. If DaimlerChrysler absorbs some of the costs to keep the price increase closer to $1,000, demand for the stretched 300C is likely to be far stronger.