Chrysler launches the 2011 200 Convertible

Chrysler has done more than re-skin the old Sebring, but the 200 is an evolution rather than a revolution. Much of Sebring’s chassis is carried over to the new 200 model but there are important changes throughout.

Starting with the sheet metal, the 200 is a more elegant and refined design than model it replaces. It now shares Chrysler’s new corporate face, incorporating their trademark winged badge into the grille.  There are also new LED lights front and rear. The exterior mirrors have been reshaped to reduce wind noise as well.

Under the skin, many of the suspension components have either been replaced or redesigned.  The geometry has also been upgraded, the 200 now rides 10mm wider and 6mm lower than the old Sebring.

The biggest changes are to the interior. The seats are handsome, more supportive and can be covered in either leather or cloth.  Many of the surfaces are made from softer, better looking, higher quality plastics.  The dashboard is now an integrated one-piece design and even the ventilation ducts have been reconfigured. The new steering wheel has controls for a hands free phone, radio adjustments and curse control.  Navigation, satellite radio and Voice Command are optional extras.  As is the metal hard top folding roof ($1995 US), cloth is standard. Either lowers the roof in about 30 seconds.

Power comes from either the standard 2.4-liter four cylinder making 173 HP& 166 lb/ft of torque or the optional “Pentastar” 3.6-liter V-6 making 283 HP & 260 lb/ft of torque. Surprisingly, the larger engine is rated at 1 mpg more effienct than it’s four-cylinder sibling. (19-city/29 highway vs. 18-city/29 highway). This is probably due to the V6 not having to work as hard moving nearly two tons of Chrysler convertible.

Chrysler has fitted the 200 with the usual array of standard safety features, including: 4-wheel ABS, multi-stage airbags, stability control with brake assist, keyless entry and a SentryKey immobilizer security system.

In the United States the Chrysler 200 will be offered in three trim levels: Touring, Limited and S (aka Sport).  MSRP (US) starts at $26,445 for the Touring and $31,240 for the Limited. Pricing for the S has not been announced, as it’s not available until later this year.