A heck of an engine
Up front, the Limited tester got Chrysler’s all-new 3.6-litre, four-cam V6. Incidentally, this engine is a hell of a powerplant. It’s quiet, makes tons of jam and really gets things moving when drivers push toward the redline. This writer found real-world highway cruising mileage very respectable, too — and my overall test average of about 10.3 L/100km was respectable for a machine with over 280 horsepower. Note that a four-cylinder engine is standard.
This V6 is backed by a six-speed automatic with manual mode, should drivers want a little fun browsing their own gears. The performance is kept in check by antilock brakes with relatively good pedal feel.
Gripes? Rearward visibility is poor. Some will find the interior a little on the plain side, and the 200’s V6 engine creates world-class torque steer when drivers try to stab their right foot through the carpet: Fire up the forearms and keep both hands on the wheel in that situation as the 200 is going to put up a fight.
Really, though, the compelling reason to check out the 200 is one of overall value. It’s a pretty darn good deal given feature content, styling and performance — especially considering it basically offers more power, style and features than the big boys for less money. If you’re an aspiring hip-hop artist, that chrome grille will be a hit, too.
So, is the 200 going to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Camry, Accord and Malibu? Maybe so, maybe no. But, shoppers looking for some great looks, value-priced luxury and surprising performance should definitely check the 200 out. There’s a convertible model, too.
Up front, the Limited tester got Chrysler’s all-new 3.6-litre, four-cam V6. Incidentally, this engine is a hell of a powerplant. It’s quiet, makes tons of jam and really gets things moving when drivers push toward the redline. This writer found real-world highway cruising mileage very respectable, too — and my overall test average of about 10.3 L/100km was respectable for a machine with over 280 horsepower. Note that a four-cylinder engine is standard.
This V6 is backed by a six-speed automatic with manual mode, should drivers want a little fun browsing their own gears. The performance is kept in check by antilock brakes with relatively good pedal feel.
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| Up front, the Limited tester got Chrysler’s all-new 3.6-litre, four-cam V6. (Photo: Chrysler) |
Gripes? Rearward visibility is poor. Some will find the interior a little on the plain side, and the 200’s V6 engine creates world-class torque steer when drivers try to stab their right foot through the carpet: Fire up the forearms and keep both hands on the wheel in that situation as the 200 is going to put up a fight.
Really, though, the compelling reason to check out the 200 is one of overall value. It’s a pretty darn good deal given feature content, styling and performance — especially considering it basically offers more power, style and features than the big boys for less money. If you’re an aspiring hip-hop artist, that chrome grille will be a hit, too.
So, is the 200 going to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Camry, Accord and Malibu? Maybe so, maybe no. But, shoppers looking for some great looks, value-priced luxury and surprising performance should definitely check the 200 out. There’s a convertible model, too.
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