"When can I buy one," you ask? This spring according to Chrysler, now that the

So you want one? Looks like you won't have to wait long, Chrysler has announced a spring release for the 300. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

LX cars (the internal code name for 300 and sibling Dodge Magnum) have gone into production at the Chrysler Group's assembly facility in Brampton, Ontario. So far Chrysler is rolling out 250 new 300s and Magnums per day in the $1.4 billion (USD$1 billion) updated Brampton plant, just the beginning of what will eventually be 985 vehicles per day at full steam. The overhaul includes the latest laser quality control technology that checks 225 points on 60 to 70 bodies per shift to make certain all dimensions are within the specified tolerances. The result is excellent panel gap quality, even in the preproduction cars I tested. Production examples will only get better.

The 300 is the car that will bring Chrysler out of economy class and back to its premium brand roots. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

More Mercedes-Benz influence caused Brampton to implant a system for triple sealing the cabin, previously only used by DaimlerChrysler in Europe but never in North America. Mike Tonietto, plant manager, commented that recent tests show this system creates "a vehicle that matches up well with a Lexus." From my experience the effort paid off here as well, being an amazingly quiet car even at highway speeds.

Such quality levels will definitely help improve Chrysler's image as it climbs out of economy class and returns to its premium brand roots. And the 300 Series, especially the top-line HEMI powered 300C, is the car that will change perceptions and get them there.