The Chrysler 300S is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 (the Pentastar engine), not a V8. This sport-oriented trim has used the V6 across recent generations, while V8 options were offered on other trims such as the 300C and 300SRT in earlier years.
This article explains which engine powers the 300S, how it compares with other trims in the lineup, and how engine options have evolved over time.
Current powerplant in the 300S
The latest 300S uses a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivers balanced performance suitable for daily driving and highway cruising, without needing a V8.
How the 300S compares to other 300 trims
Understanding the 300S requires looking at the broader lineup. The V6 is standard for the 300S in modern years, while certain trims historically offered V8 power.
V8 options in the Chrysler 300 family
Across the model's history, the following engines appeared in the 300 lineup, with notes on whether they were used for the 300S:
- 3.6-liter Pentastar V6: standard powertrain for the 300S in contemporary generations
- 5.7-liter Hemi V8: used in older 300C trims
- 6.4-liter Hemi V8: used in the high-performance 300SRT variant
Before the list, an informative paragraph: The following engines have appeared in the Chrysler 300 lineup, with notes on whether they were used on the 300S.
Conclusion: The 300S has consistently been powered by the V6 in recent years, while V8s were reserved for other trims or special-performance versions.
Summary
Bottom line: The Chrysler 300S is a V6-powered model. If you want a V8, you would need to look at other trims such as the older 300C or the SRT variant, but not the 300S in its current form.
Which is better, a Chrysler V6 or V8?
Choosing between a V6 and V8 engine largely depends on your driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize efficiency and a quieter ride, a V6 might be the perfect fit. However, if you require greater power for towing or crave a more dynamic driving experience, a V8 could be the better option.
What year to stay away from Chrysler 300?
What are the worst Chrysler 300 years? The first year or two of any totally new design is always a risky period, and 2005 and 2006 Chrysler 300 models have by far the highest number of user complaints and reliability issues. They're also the oldest models on the road, so they have the most wear.
Which 300 is a V8?
Powertrain
| Chrysler | ||
|---|---|---|
| Model | Engine | Years |
| 300S | 3.6 V6 Pentastar | 2011–2023 |
| 300C and 300S (2012) | 5.7 V8 Hemi | 2011–2023 |
| 300 SRT-8 | 6.4L 392 Hemi V8 engine | 2012–2014 |
Do the Chrysler 300S have a V8?
Step up to the sportier, speedier Chrysler 300S and get 363 horsepower with the available 5.7L HEMI® V8 engine. Or go all out in the brand-new Chrysler 300C with a ferocious 485-horsepower 6.4L HEMI V8 that makes it one of the most powerful Chrysler 300 models ever built.