The Chrysler 300 uses an automatic transmission. In recent years it has been equipped with an eight-speed automatic, while earlier generations relied on four- or five-speed automatics depending on year and engine.
Transmission history by generation
Below is a broad overview of how the transmission options evolved over the model’s lifetime.
- Early models (roughly 2005–2009) commonly paired four-speed automatic transmissions with the base engines.
- Mid-generation updates (around 2010–2011) introduced five-speed automatic options on certain trims and engines.
- Modern era (approximately 2012 onward) standardized on an eight-speed automatic across most trims and engines.
The shift to an eight-speed auto brought smoother shifts, improved efficiency, and stronger overall performance compared with the earlier four- and five-speed designs.
Engine-specific transmission patterns
Different powertrains in the Chrysler 300 were paired with different transmissions over time. Here’s a high-level view:
- 3.6L Pentastar V6: Typically connected to an eight-speed automatic in the modern model years.
- 5.7L Hemi V8: Early versions used a five-speed automatic; in later years, it also aligned with the eight-speed automatic to boost performance and efficiency.
- Older base V6 offerings from earlier generations generally used four-speed automatics.
Note: All current and recent trims rely on the eight-speed automatic with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.
Why this matters for drivers
Choosing a Chrysler 300 with the eight-speed automatic delivers smoother shifts, improved fuel economy, and better off-the-line performance, especially with the V6 variants. Maintenance and reliability are generally good, but like any automatic transmission, it benefits from regular fluid changes as recommended in the owner’s manual and service advisories.
Summary
The Chrysler 300’s transmission setup has transitioned from four- and five-speed automatics in earlier years to a modern eight-speed automatic in the current lineup. This evolution mirrors industry trends toward more gears for smoother shifts and better efficiency, with the eight-speed helping both V6 and Hemi-powered versions achieve improved performance and fuel economy.