The 2023 Dodge Charger, Challenger, and Chrysler 300 have officially rolled off the assembly line at Stellantis’ Brampton Assembly Plant, signalling the end of an era. With over 4.3 million units sold in nearly two decades, these iconic models, built on the L platform that started with the Chrysler 300C in 2004, leave behind a legacy of Hemi-powered muscle cars.
The L platform made its debut with the Chrysler 300C, featuring a 5.7-liter V8. Over the years, it evolved to accommodate a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, reaching a peak of 1,025 horsepower. The L platform has been a mainstay in the muscle car market, showcasing adaptability and longevity, far surpassing expectations.
On December 20, the last Chrysler 300 drove into the sunset, following the earlier departure of the 300C. Two days later, the final Charger, a Destroyer Gray Scat Pack Widebody, left the production line. The last Challenger, an SRT Demon 170 in Pitch Black, had the honour of turning out the lights at Brampton.
The Brampton Assembly Plant will now undergo a significant overhaul, including new stamping lines and a paint shop. The dark period is expected to last nearly two years, with production slated to resume in late 2025. The revitalized facility will shift focus to the next-generation Jeep Compass and vehicles on the STLA Medium platform, featuring both traditional and battery-electric powertrains.
The next chapter for the Charger and Challenger begins at the Windsor Assembly Plant, where the all-new Charger, based on the STLA Large platform, is set to debut. This model, showcased by the SRT Banshee Concept, will offer a Hurricane inline-six engine and battery-electric drivetrains, marrying performance with sustainability.
While the fate of the Chrysler 300 remains uncertain, brand boss Christine Feuell has hinted at three new Chrysler products in the pipeline, including two SUVs. Gilles remains tight-lipped about the third product, suggesting it may not be a direct successor to the 300 but promises it will be a noteworthy addition to the Chrysler line up.
