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2011 Chrysler 200 Features And Pricing
The 2011 Chrysler 200 is a near total redesign of the Chrysler Sebring and a major improvement in about every way. With an updated exterior design, a hugely improved cabin, a robust new 3.6-liter V6 engine and new steering and suspension tunings, the 200 is a much more appealing and competitive midsize family.
Still standard on most models will be the Sebring's adequate but uninspiring 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, however, the new V6 is available on all but the base model and is much livelier than the Sebring's V6. This, coupled with the 200's more athletic suspension and steering, have made for a more capable and engaging driving experience. And on the inside, the materials are distinctly higher-quality and the overall look and feel has become more upscale and refined.
The new Chrysler 200 has certainly come a long way towards becoming a true contender and is attractively priced as it offers a lot of features for the dollar. That said, this segment is crowded with worthy rivals. Those shopping the midsize family sedan market may also want to consider the Ford Fusion, the Honda Accord, the Hyundai Sonata, the Kia Optima, the Mazda 6 and the Toyota Camry.
Trims, Standard Features And Options:
The 2011 Chrysler 200 is available in four trims: LX, Touring, Limited and S. In 2012, there will also be a 200 convertible.
Standard features on the already well-equipped base LX model include power windows, power door locks, power and heated mirrors, cruise control, air-conditioning, 17-inch steel wheels, steering wheel audio controls, 60/40-split-folding rear seatbacks, remote keyless entry, a low tire pressure warning, speed sensitive wipers, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and a 4-speaker audio system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.
Moving up to the Touring model adds a power driver seat, 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded interior lighting, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, automatic climate control, automatic headlights, a trip computer and a 6-speaker audio system with satellite radio.
The Limited model then adds leather upholstery, 18-inch alloy wheels, remote ignition, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and an upgraded audio system with voice controls, a touchscreen interface and digital music storage.
In terms of options, most of the Limited's features are available for the Touring. In addition, there's also an optional sunroof and a Garmin-based navigation system.
The sportier S model will be offered later in the model year and will feature a standard V6 engine, front sport seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and Boston Acoustics speakers.
Engines, Powertrain And Gas Mileage:
Powering the front-wheel-drive Chrysler 200 is one of two engines. Standard on all models but the S is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 173 horsepower and 166 pound-feet of torque. Standard on the S and an option on the Limited and Touring models is a Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 that pumps out 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.
All models are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission except the LX which comes with a 4-speed automatic. And later in the model year, a new dual-clutch 6-speed automatic will be available for four-cylinder models that will improve performance as well as increase fuel efficiency.
The EPA-estimated gas mileage for the 2011 200 comes in at 20 mpg city and 31 mpg on the highway on models equipped with the four-cylinder engine. Fuel economy for the V6 is rated only slightly lower at 19 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.
Safety:
The 2011 Chrysler 200 is also well-equipped when it comes to safety. Standard safety features across all Chrysler 200 models include traction and stability control, antilock brakes (ABS) with brake assist, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints.
Government crash tests had not yet been completed at the time of this writing.
Interior:
The Chrysler 200's cabin is markedly improved over the Sebring's. A substantial upgrade of materials and an attractive layout have made for a more upscale overall look and feel ... and is now on a competitive level with other midsize sedans. Also aiding the more uplevel ambiance is a quieter cabin, helped by acoustic glass in the windshield and front doors as well as additional sound-reducing materials.
The seating is comfortable and supportive, both front and rear, and there's adequate leg and headroom. The rear accommodations for 6-foot+ passengers, however, are on the tight side. The trunk's cargo capacity of 13.6 cubic feet, while adequote for most needs, is somewhat smaller than average for the segment.
Drive:
Most drivers will be pleased with 200's retuned suspension which has greatly improved its overall handling, while its reworked steering calibration has made it much more precise. This performance upgrade also comes with a somewhat firmer ride quality, although certainly not harsh. Most will likely find the driving experience quite comfortable.
While the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine performs adequately enough to meet the needs of most drivers, it's certainly not impressive. The much more lively and competent V6 provides brisk acceleration and a more engaging drive without sacrificing very much in fuel economy.
Overall:
The new Chrysler 200 has taken the disappointing Sebring to a quite competitive midsize sedan with capable handling and luxury-like surroundings at an attractive price. While perhaps not yet at the top of the list in this very crowded segment, the Chrysler 200 is definitely a contender deserving a serious look.
How To Get The Lowest Price:
Best Negotiating Tactic: Well, there's definitely a 'best way' when it comes to new car buying. If you want to get the best bottomline, out-the-door price you need to know exactly who to talk to at the dealership, how to make the contact and how to make this person eager to quickly drop prices as low as possible to get your sale.
Those of you in the market for a used car may want to check out this article about how to buy a used car at the lowest price. It details a super effective buying method, one that often beats down prices to wholesale levels.
And somewhat related to this, here's another excellent method that identifies Price-Distressed Cars Right On Dealer Lots. These are vehicles they are so desperate to unload they would welcome your wholesale offer.
In addition, you can also try Open-To-The-Public Repo And Government Auto Auctions in your own geographic area. While there can be a lot of junk vehicles at these auctions, there are often absolute gems sprinkled in as well. This article reviews what to expect at open-to-the-public car auctions and how to locate them in your own area.
