The 6-speed automatic transmission of the Chrysler 200 sedan is energized by a 3.6 L 24-valve Pentastar VVT V6 engine that offers best-in-class 283 horsepower while getting 19 city/29 highway mpg, according to Chrysler Group LLC.
The front and rear suspension with stabilizer bars delivers a substantially sturdy and responsive ride, sitting on standard 18”x7” aluminum painted wheels.
The interior is blended with super-soft materials that are both comfortable and sturdy, and the design incorporates features that absorb any kind of noise from the instrument panel and door panels, and at the same time reduces vibrations throughout the automotive cabin.
Even the progressive windshield and front-door-glass acoustic treatment help to prevent road noises from entering the cabin.
The four-spoke tilt and telescopic steering wheel with integrated controls offers the driver easy access to radio, cruise, and hands-free phone controls. However, you must be careful with your fingers. I kept changing radio stations and turning the cruise off and on because of the control’s sensitivity to movement and touch.
Rear passengers will enjoy spacious, comfortable seating. I especially liked the trunk pass-through that provides additional cargo capacity by allowing longer items to be stored in the trunk.
Inside, the Uconnect infotainment system with a 6.5” touch screen and voice command for controlling music, navigation, and communication is a beauty to behold.
The Uconnect Phone function lets you pair up to seven Bluetooth-compatible phones for making and receiving calls hands-free. Navigation has voice guidance and visual display. Plus, you can enjoy over 150 channels on your SiriusXM satellite radio. Some Uconnect configurations even have 3G data connectivity and in-car WiFi hotspot.
The 200 is quiet, safe, comfortable, and handles well. Yet it’s the safety that is so important.
Remote keyless illuminated entry gets you inside quickly. The security alarm system monitors the doors, trunk, and the ignition circuit for unauthorized entry and warns of unauthorized entry with flashing lights and horn sounds.
Anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control keep you secure while in motion. Active front head restraints and airbags keep you stable and surrounded by a blanket of personal protection.
The 200 is built on a solid structure frame of high-strength steel. This steel frame incorporates a safety cage that is strong, but at the same time features front and rear crumple zones that absorb energy and redirect it away from the passengers, reducing the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
The Chrysler 200 looks good from the “go.” Its S grille and festive badge, fascia, and sculpting-pronounced deck lid announce your arrival. The standard body color (my car was a beautiful silver metallic clear) featured black bezel head and fog lamps. The door handles and heated power mirrors give the 200 a progressive stance. At the back, ultra-bright LED tail lamps draw spectator looks to your presence, which is good especially since you have dual rear exhaust with chrome tips.
Recent heavy rains in Texas made the taillights of many cars difficult to see when traveling through a torrential downpour or early morning fog. But the 200’s splendid lighting helps in making your location known to others in the traffic.
The price of the Chrysler 200 Limited is $27, 865, which included $995 destination charges.
Warranty
3 yr/36,000 mile Basic Limited Warranty
5 yr/100,000 mile Powertrain Warranty
5 yr/100,000 mile Roadside Assistance Warranty
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this newspaper or at [email protected]
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