New Chrysler 300 mule Caught for First Time

These are the very first spy pictures of the upcoming 2010 Chrysler 300 taken at the company's Technology Centre in Auburn Hills, Michigan. Underneath this SRT8 mule is the brand new vehicle and it looks as if the current LX platform has not changed much in terms of dimensions.

The car was partly previewed in Chrysler's viability plan back in February. A couple pictures appeared as part of the plan but their finality was cast in doubt after essential details like side mirrors were noticeably missing.

Nevertheless, the big sedan seemed to shed its pimp image for a more rounded exterior. The front end looked smooth and less butch. Even the interior looked more upmarket with a good combination of wood panels and leather upholstery. Overall it presented a more executive image.

Fuel economy is said to show a 22 percent improvement but no reference model or powertrain was specified. Engines currently on offer are a 2.7-litre, a 3.5-litre, a 5.7-litre and a 6.1-litre HEMI V8. There is also a 3.0-litre turbo diesel.

With the new Fiat/ Chrysler tie-up, speculation puts the RWD 300 platform beneath future Maseratis and Lancias.  Utilizing a new V6 engine which is slated to debut in the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Lancia version would replace the Thesis while the Maserati would slot below the Quattroporte.