The Pentastar architecture distinguishes itself with a flexible “plug-and-play” architecture. With little or no modification, the 3.6-liter version accommodates longitudinal and transverse orientations; front-wheel-, rear-wheel-, all-wheel- and four-wheel-drive systems; and 6-speed manual and 6-, 8- and 9-speed automatic transmissions.

The port-injected 3.6-liter version, named one of Ward’s 10 Best Engines three years running, delivers top fuel economy in two key segments, besting competitors that utilize costlier direct-injection technology. The 2013 Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger full-size cars are rated at 31 mpg on the highway, while the Ram 1500 full-size pickup offers 25 mpg.

Production of the 3.0-liter Pentastar launched July 3 at Chrysler Group’s engine plant in Trenton, MI—home to the 3.6-liter and 3.2-liter versions. The plant began shipping the engines July 22.

The 3.0-liter V-6 generates 230 horsepower at 6,350 rpm. Its peak torque—210 lb-ft (285 N·m)—arrives at 4,400 rpm. It carries over design attributes from the 3.6-liter engine. A 60-degree, deep-skirt, die-cast-aluminum cylinder block with six-bolt main caps afford optimal stiffness for mitigation of NVH. Also contributing to NVH reduction are:

• A structural windage tray to complement block stiffness
• A structural aluminum oil pan
• Direct-mounted alternator and A/C compressor that increases stiffness
• Select-fit pistons with polymer-graphite-coated piston skirts
• “Silent chain” timing drive with inverted teeth for minimal sprocket NVH
• Contoured composite cylinder-head covers
• Glass-reinforced nylon composite intake manifold

Further enhancing the driving experience is the specially designed intake manifold, which also feature low-rumble tuning. The engine features forged-steel connecting rods and piston-squirter jets, and its cam drive and valve-train components require no scheduled maintenance.