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2011 Chrysler 200 Limited Review

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Khatir Soltani
Very Respectful
I think, however, the Hyundai Sonata still has my favourite interior in this class because of how modern it looks. This 200 still seems a bit “dated” in the overall appearance. The analog clock, chrome trim and shiny black surfaces give it a more grown-up look that I think will appeal to a more mature buyer.

What I like most about the interior is the functionality of it: Buttons are well-placed and are a good size for grasping or pushing. The instrument panel is easy to read and pleasant to look at.

Speaking of pleasant, the exterior design has also been improved with a new front grille, featuring the Chrysler winged badge with black background; new front and rear fascia; larger wheels; and projector headlamps. Though not major changes, just enough that I can honestly say has made this car much nicer to look at.

Under the hood, the 200 is powered by the all-new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 who produces 283hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. (Photo: Rob Rothwell/Auto123.com)

Under the hood, the 200 is powered by either a 2.4-litre DOHC VVT I-4 with 173hp and 166 lb-ft of torque or the all-new 3.6-litre Pentastar V6. The V6 engine produces a best-in-class horsepower rating of 283hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.

The new V6 also features an improved 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, and is optional on the I-4 engine. It provides smooth, seamless shifting with an 11% increase in performance and a slight boost in fuel efficiency compared to the four-speed automatic transmission.

Nowadays, though, shifting is more efficient when done by the computer and not the driver.

A number of tweaks to the suspension have made an incredible improvement in the cars feeling on the road. The ride is slightly firmer than the outgoing Sebring model, yet not too harsh.

The steering is very controlled, and I felt balanced and comfortable on my road trip. Less body roll and less vehicle shudder on uneven roads made me really enjoy driving this Chrysler for several hours at a time.

One significant difference I noticed was the quiet interior which is achieved by 45 new sound deadening treatments, including an acoustic glass windshield and laminated side glass usually only found in higher-priced vehicles.

The steering is very controlled, and I felt balanced and comfortable on my road trip. (Photo: Chrysler)
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada