Car Upstream

Chrysler 300, PT Cruiser, Town & Country Updated for 2010
Chrysler’s 2010 lineup may not be as extensively overhauled as Dodge’s portfolio, but the division will introduce a few new trim levels for the 2010 model year.The rear-wheel-drive 300 gains two new special edition models, both with Audi-esque names. The 300 S6 and S8 are powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 and a 5.7-liter Hemi V-8 respectively, and help dress up Chrysler’s largest offering. Both cars receive new 20-inch wheels with painted pockets, darkened headlamp bezels, and blacked-out grilles with a chrome outline. Although the powertrain

is left stock, Chrysler has fitted the cars with upgraded suspension parts to improve handling.
Inside, 300 S6 and S8 models receive suede seat inserts, and red accents on the steering wheel and seats. Brushed aluminum accents help dress up the aging interior, while a 13-speaker, 322-watt audio system (complete with a 100-watt subwoofer) entertain those seated within. 300 S6 and S8 cars also come equipped with Sirius satellite radio and remote start, and should arrive at dealers in the spring.For 2010, the Town & Country will once again be offered as a Walter P. Chrysler Signature Series model, and will be dressed up for the occasion. The black paint and chrome wheels carry a luxurious look, but it’s what inside that counts. Macassar Range wood trim is unique to this model, as are the two-tone leather seats. Stow ‘n’ Go, a 30-gigabyte hard drive, a dual-screen DVD entertainment system, and heated seats in the first and second rows are also standard equipment. Pricing begins at $33,365 (including $820 of destination fees), and should be on sale in the first quarter of 2010.Special edition PT Cruisers are nothing new, but the two-tone paint on the new PT Cruiser Couture Edition is rather attractive. Couture cars also receive a red pinstripe, along with polished multispoke 16-inch wheels. Seats can be trimmed in either a vibrant red hue or available gray leather. Look for the Couture Cruiser to arrive in showrooms in a few months, carrying a base price of $19,995