2012 Chrysler 200 ReviewSee all 2012 Chrysler 200's for sale |
7.4 out of 10 |
The Basics:
Just a year after its introduction, the Chrysler 200 mid-size lineup is arguably already better-established than the longtime Sebring models they replaced--thanks to a well-implemented ad campaign, and Eminem. But as fresh as the marketing was, the actual car is strictly a holdover, bridging the gap between the somewhat disastrous Sebring and this sedan's Lancia-based replacement that's probably due sometime next year.
The 2012 Chrysler 200 and 200 Convertible do carry over with the Sebring's bones, but they do away with its overwrought styling, low-buck interiors and stiff ride. Only fleet sales kept the Sebring from being a total disaster, but the reformulated 200 is the better-realized car that Chrysler should have first put on sale four years ago; it's not perfect, but it's a good match for a style-conscious, comfort-oriented buyer.
One of the most important parts of the 200's emergency transplant was its interior; Chrysler gave the 200 an all-new, beautifully sculpted interior that feels up to Volkswagen standards and includes materials and finishes that are a world better than the old hard plastics. Likewise, Chrysler has doubled up on insulation to make the 200's interior a very quiet place (except for the coarse four-cylinder engine's note), and softened the ride. Factor in the newly available 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 and six-speed automatic transmission, and the 200 no longer feels a step behind.
While the 2012 Chrysler 200 is mostly up to the standards of comfort, space, and safety that you'd find in models like the Hyundai Sonata or Toyota Camry, it's still missing some of the standard features, like Bluetooth connectivity, that all shoppers are expecting. Likewise, look past the sheen of the brightwork and consider that the base 200 still only has a four-speed automatic--and fuel economy is still lackluster--and it's fair to say that this model isn't quite in the top tier...but almost.
Likes:
- Neat, balanced look inside and out
- Strong, smooth V-6
- Quiet interior, smooth highway ride
- Up to snuff in tech and entertainment features
Dislikes:
- Coarse base engine
- Torque steer in V-6 models
- Standard equipment lags competition
- Body flex in Convertible models
- Unimpressive gas mileage (4-cyl)
Other Choices:
- 2012 Hyundai Sonata
- 2012 Ford Fusion
- 2012 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
- 2012 Toyota Camry
- 2012 Ford Mustang
Reason Why:
The 2012 Chrysler 200 covers a wide swath of the mid-size market with affordably priced sedans and convertibles. But comparing it against most of the competition, the 200 is still a bit lacking in many key areas. The Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry crush the 200 in terms of fuel economy and standard features, but some might find the 200's interior to be nicer (and quieter) to sit in. The Ford Fusion has great dynamics and a still-attractive shape to its credit, while the new VW Jetta has a spacious back seat and its vaguely upscale brand image in its hip pocket. With improved interior comfort, safety, and features, the new 2012 Toyota Camry doesn't cost much more than the base 200 and stands as a compelling value; it does remain very conservative-feeling, though. The 200 Convertible remains largely a fleet vehicle, filling up Sun Belt rental lots, alongside V-6 Mustangs. Against the Mustang, the 200 Convertible has a better ride and more trunk space, but the Mustang is much more lively from behind the wheel.
The Bottom Line:
The 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan and Convertible models are comfortable, stylish, and a decent value; but they're still far from best in class.
This 2012 Chrysler 200 Review originally appeared at TheCarConnection.com where you can see more photos and news on the Chrysler 200
All of our reviews come from experts at TheCarConnection.com.
