2011 Chrysler 200: A new runner in the intermediate sedan race
Although Chrysler has been lying low lately, the next few months should be faster-paced for the automaker, as it releases several new products. You can expect to see a lot more of Chrysler in the media, and this time it won’t be about its financial situation. In fact, Chrysler recently held a press event to present not just one model (as is the norm but seven. All at the same time! It was quite the marathon. And though a dog’s age seems to have passed since we had examined the technical specs of Chrysler products, the last few days brought us quickly up to date on them. Of all the vehicles presented, one of the most memorable is the Chrysler 200, the new player on the intermediate sedan field.
If this segment is important anywhere, it’s in the U.S. Yet Chrysler was practically shut out of the race, as the Sebring and Dodge Avenger didn’t deliver the sales figures they were supposed to generate. A mere 80 Sebrings were sold in Canada in October, which is a ridiculous number for this segment. In order for Chrysler to get back in the game, the company needed a more competitive vehicle. And that’s exactly what we have with the 2011 Chrysler 200.
All about value
In addition to revamping the vehicle’s style and interior finishings, Chrysler decided to boost the 200’s appeal by emphasizing its very tempting price. Their strategy for stealing part of the market was offering great value. If this recipe worked for Hyundai, why wouldn’t it work for Chrysler? Offered for less than $20,000 and featuring a good equipment level, the 200 is really playing hardball. In fact, its price is not far off from several well-equipped sub-compacts.
Three versions of the 200 are available: the LX, Touring and Limited. Under the hood comes the factory-standard 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, which is nothing new as it was also aboard the Sebring. This engine delivers a reasonable 173 hp and is paired with an automatic four-speed gearbox. One might wonder why they even bother with this transmission, given that an automatic six-speed (much more interesting in my opinion) is available on option. The answer is probably that the four-speed brings the base price lower than the six-speed would have.
A new Pentastar V6
Offered on option in the 200 Touring and factory-standard in the Limited, the Pentastar V6 – the new ace up Chrysler’s sleeve – is made all the more versatile with this vehicle, as it is now used through their whole line of products. Having started out in the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, it is certainly more modern than the old 3.5-litre engine. This 3.6-litre V6 delivers 283 hp and 260 lbs.-ft. of torque, which is a lot of power for a vehicle in this category. Across the board, it is paired with the six-speed automatic transmission which, from a technological standpoint, is much more with the times, particularly with its variable valve timing. Too bad that it doesn’t have direct fuel injection (now used by many competitors).
In terms of style, the 200 is sober and has several traits in common with the Sebring. The front fascia includes a large grille that looks similar to the 300’s grille with a wavy design. In keeping with the latest trends, a line of LED lights runs across the top of the headlights, adding a touch of sophistication. The rear section is more distinctive, breaking from the Sebring’s aesthetics. Overall, the 200 is more modern, and yet its style still comes across as quite classic, which may not please all generations.
The biggest improvements are on the inside!
After sizing up the various improvements, it becomes clear that the most impressive work was done to the vehicle’s interior. Forget anything you’ve seen on previous Chrysler vehicles – especially Dodge. They seem to finally "get" that nobody wants a cheapo passenger compartment. Like on Chrysler’s other new products, the interior assembly and materials are a total break from the past. First, the finish and attention to detail on the door panels is much better, while the soft sections offer superior comfort.
The same compliments apply to the dashboard, which features more modern instrumentation and an improved design. Everything is readable, well presented and easy to understand, while being aesthetically pleasing. The special care that went into the details is immediately apparent, especially the various accessories and omnipresent backlighting. The steering wheel offers a great grip and nice feel. The Chrysler 200 also comes equipped with a touch screen that controls the climate control and sounds system, all of which are intuitive and simple. In short, this interior is far superior to what we have seen in the past.
First road test
Our several hundred kilometre test drive took place in a Chrysler 200 equipped with the new 3.6-litre V6. That said, the 2.4-litre four-cylinder is still a good choice, and when paired with the six-speed gearbox, it will offer better fuel economy. The V6 gives this vehicle more power that any of its rivals. With 284 horses, its accelerations are vigorous, but not without a slight torque effect. The automatic six-speed gearbox works well with this engine, offering smooth shifting without hesitation. When driving, you can really tell that they’ve worked on the suspension. The engineers have firmed it up using more a rigid fulcrum, a new configuration and stabilizer bars. As a result, the vehicle’s handling is more dynamic – which is more noticeable on windy roads. That said, it’s still a comfortable ride.
Will Chrysler’s new 200 put the automaker on the podium, competing against the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Toyota Camry and Ford Fusion? Probably not. But you’ve got to admit that the 200 is a much more competitive product and it will definitely help Chrysler increase its market share. Plus, the 200 might just buy the automaker some time to come out with the next must-have product.