Model Strengths:

Fuel economy; convertible availability; low price of entry; good V6 power

Model Overview

Chrysler's 200 soldiers on in 2012, as both a 4-door sedan and 2-door convertible. Sedans are offered in LX, Touring, Limited and S models. All but the S are powered by a 2.4L 16-valve 4-cylinder that makes 173 horsepower and 166 ft-lb of torque. It's efficient too-the EPA estimates it's capable of 30 mpg on the highway. A 3.6L V6 is standard on the S and optional on all trims, and it makes 283 horsepower. The LX utilizes a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the rest of the model range is fitted with a 6-speed automatic, with AutoStick driver interactivity for clutchless manual shifting. Convertible 200s come in Touring, Limited and S trims, with the Touring powered by the 2.4L engine and the Limited and S models drawing on the 3.6. All convertibles come with the 6-speed automatic with AutoStick. The 200 LX is solidly equipped with anti-lock brakes, power everything, remote keyless entry, air conditioning, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a 4-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input. Safety features include standard traction control and a host of airbags. Touring trim adds automatic headlights, aluminum wheels, a 6-speaker CD stereo, satellite radio, a power driver seat, automatic climate control and a tire pressure monitor. The Limited model features 18-inch wheels, remote start, a 40GB hard-drive-based audio system with 6.5-inch touch-screen display, Bluetooth and heated leather seats. The top-of-the-line S trim includes Boston Acoustics speakers, special leather seating, a tire-pressure monitor, and more. The Touring sedan can be outfitted with a power sunroof. On the Limited, a Media Center 730 with a hard drive, navigation system and Bluetooth is optional.

Model Changes

Following its debut in 2011, the Chrysler 200 in both sedan and convertible guise is little changed for 2012.

Model Value

The 2012 Chrysler 200 offers much to like for buyers interested in a stylish, economical, and inexpensive mid-size sedan. Things like a 283-hp V6, a true 4-seat convertible, and still inexpensive prices mean that power- and luxury-seekers on a budget can have theirs, too. Entry price is below $19,000 and that buys plenty of car.