Chrysler's UK sales have topped a 25% increase globally this year.
Total UK sales rose 398% (254 to 1,205) while fleet sales increased 112% (405 to 859).
The car that gave Chrysler a boost in 2005 and 2006 – the 300C – has now been replaced by a second-generation model, although the company's talk of sales in the hundreds for the UK compared with its predecessor's thousands was partly due to the mistake of only offering a 3.0-litre petrol option.
Engine size and CO2 emissions may hinder Chrysler when compared with its greener rivals in the executive segment, an area of the market dominated by four-cylinder diesel engines in the UK. Undeterred, Chrysler currently has no plans to introduce further engine variants or an estate version.
The 3.0-liter V6 turbo diesel engine, which debuted last year in the Jeep Cherokee, is supplied by Italian diesel engine specialist VM Motori in which Fiat (Chrysler's parent company) now owns a 50% stake.
The V6 offers plenty of performance, but it's cruising speed that makes the car shine. The engine is quiet and the car is perfect for many miles on the highway.
At 5,066mm long, the 300C is slightly larger than its predecessor, although it doesn't feel particularly large when viewed from behind the wheel.
The interior has a luxurious feel and the quality of materials is significantly improved from the original 300C. Equipment includes leather seats, a dual panoramic sunroof, and wood finishing on the dashboard and doors; it even includes a heated/cooled cup holder.
Among the interior features is an entertainment system featuring the largest touchscreen in its segment.
This ensures that the reverse camera view and satellite navigation maps are displayed very clearly.
There's also a range of safety features we've now come to expect in cars in this sector, such as adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and tire pressure monitoring.
Chrysler claims the price of the P11D is up to 10% cheaper than other E-segment cars when adjusted for specifications. However, Land has set a realistic sales target for the latest model which goes on sale in the UK on June 14.
We want to sell 450 units by the end of the year and 750 units a full year," he said.
P11D Price
£35,615
MPG
39.8
CO2 Emissions
185g/km
BIK %
31%
Fuel Type
Diesel
