2012 Chrysler 200 Review





Get More For Your Trade-In
Edmunds' Expert Review
- Lots of features for the price
- strong V6 engine
- composed ride and handling
- available convertible model.
- Smaller than many of its rivals
- smallish trunk
- some behind-the-times electronics.
What’s new
After a complete overhaul last year and a new name (it used to be the Sebring), the Chrysler 200 heads into 2012 with no significant changes.
Edmunds says
The 2012 Chrysler 200 convertible is a good, spacious choice among midsize drop tops, but its 200 sedan sibling faces tougher competition and is thus less appealing.
Vehicle overview
An uphill battle is generally not a recipe for victory, and the 2012 Chrysler 200 sedan has one on its hands, since it competes with some excellent midsize four-doors. Chrysler's thorough overhaul last year brought major improvements, particularly in regard to handling, interior quality, power and even image (the name change from Sebring to 200). But while the 2012 200 sedan is better equipped for battle, it's still ultimately outgunned.
The new 200 improves on the sloppy driving dynamics and crummy interior of its bland predecessor; it's pleasant to drive and features strong interior materials that few in the class can better. The available 283-horsepower V6 engine also boasts the most power in the class while returning respectable fuel economy. Another plus is sheet metal that's more stylish than that of the previous generation.
The 2012 Chrysler 200 is also available as a convertible, and the drop top earns a stronger recommendation than the sedan, since the convertible segment is smaller and less competitive. Compared to models like the Ford Mustang and Volkswagen Eos, the Sebring's cabin and trunk are enormous, and it packs in a lot of features for the money. You may not have too many choices among convertibles, but at least the 200 is a good one.
For the 200 sedan, however, going with a competitive rival would probably be a better choice. The 200 sedan has a smaller cabin and trunk than its competitors, and some of its in-car electronics are a little behind the times. These aren't huge drawbacks, but they're enough that we think the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Toyota Camry and Volkswagen Passat are better picks overall.
Performance & mpg
Every 2012 Chrysler 200 except the S trim comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 173 hp and 166 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard on the LX; a six-speed automatic is optional on the LX and standard on everything else. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the sedan is 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with the four-speed automatic, and 20/31/24 with the six-speed. The convertible returns an estimated 19/29/22.
A 3.6-liter V6 is optional on the Touring and Limited, and standard on the 200 S. It produces 283 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic is standard. In Edmunds performance testing, a Limited sedan with this engine went from zero to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. A so-equipped Limited convertible needed 7.5 seconds. Both times are on par for the class. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 19/29/22 for both body styles.
Safety
The 2012 Chrysler 200 comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, active head restraints and front side airbags. The sedan gets side curtain airbags, while the convertible gets front-seat-mounted side airbags with head protection.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Limited sedan came to a stop from 60 mph in a slightly longer-than-average 127 feet. A Limited convertible stopped in 121 feet.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 200 sedan the highest possible rating of "Good" in the frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests. The convertible also earned a "Good" rating in the frontal-offset and side-impact tests.
Driving
The 2012 Chrysler 200 drives down the road with poise. The suspension provides a supple yet well-controlled ride, and handling is better than that of many other midsize sedans. The steering provides decent feedback, but isn't as responsive as the Accord's or the Fusion's. Performance with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder is unremarkable, but it should be adequate for most buyers when it's mated to the six-speed automatic transmission. The 3.6-liter V6 is quite energetic and is one of the most robust engines in the segment, delivering strong acceleration without a tremendous sacrifice in fuel economy.
Interior
The Chrysler 200's design team did a remarkable job last year of transforming the old Sebring's low-rent interior into something that's now fully competitive for the midsize sedan segment. The general dash design and control layout are pretty much the same as before, but because the materials are substantially better, the overall ambience is greatly improved. The 200 still lags behind its competitors (and even some of its Chrysler cousins) in terms of in-car electronics -- the older Chrysler touchscreen interface was unintuitive when it was new and hasn't grown better with age.
Another demerit is that the 200 is a bit smaller than its competition. This is noticeable in the backseat as well as in the front, which features a slightly odd elevated seating position to create more legroom. The sedan's 13.6-cubic-foot trunk is also a little on the small side.
However, if you're looking for a convertible with a comparatively roomy backseat, the 200 provides more room than most. It's the same with the trunk, which is enormous when the roof is raised and comparatively spacious with it lowered as well. Speaking of the convertible's roof, it can be either a conventional soft top or a more expensive retractable hardtop that promises better security and noise reduction. Either way, top operation is easy and takes about 30 seconds to lower. Wind noise is impressively subdued with the top up; we've found the convertible to be just a bit louder than the sedan.
2012 Chrysler 200 models
The 2012 Chrysler 200 is available in midsize sedan and convertible body styles. The sedan comes in an entry-level LX trim, while both can be had in Touring, Limited and S trims.
The LX sedan comes standard with 17-inch steel wheels, keyless entry, full power accessories, heated mirrors, cruise control, air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and steering wheel controls. An eight-way power driver seat and heated front seats are optional.
The Touring adds to or supplants the LX's amenities with 17-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded transmission, automatic headlamps, automatic climate control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter and a six-speaker sound system with satellite radio. The convertible features a power cloth top and six-way power front seats. The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats and remote ignition. Optional on both the LX and the Touring is the UConnect Voice Command package that contains Bluetooth, an iPod/USB audio interface and an auto-dimming mirror. A touchscreen audio interface that includes DVD audio playback and digital music storage is optional.
The Limited adds to or supplants the Touring's amenities with 18-inch wheels, foglamps and leather upholstery. Options include a navigation system with real-time traffic and a six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system. The Limited convertible can be equipped with a retractable hardtop.
The 200 S differs from the otherwise identically equipped Limited with a standard V6 engine, dark exterior trim, a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel and the Boston Acoustics sound system. A sunroof is optional on all sedans but the LX.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2012 Chrysler 200.
Most helpful consumer reviews
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 stars- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverall4 / 5Driver4 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverall3 / 5
- Side Barrier RatingOverall5 / 5Driver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront Seat2 / 5Back Seat4 / 5
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover11.1%
- Side Impact TestGood
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestGood
People who viewed this also viewed
4.882353 average Rating out of 17 reviews. |
Starting at $25,845 |
See Inventory |
4.7272725 average Rating out of 11 reviews. |
Starting at $26,975 |
See Inventory |
4.375 average Rating out of 8 reviews. |
Starting at $20,425 |
See Inventory |
Used 2012 Chrysler 200 Overview
The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 is offered in the following submodels: 200 Sedan, 200 Convertible. Available styles include Touring 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A), Limited 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 6A), S 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A), Limited 2dr Convertible (3.6L 6cyl 6A), Touring 2dr Convertible (2.4L 4cyl 6A), LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A), and S 2dr Convertible (3.6L 6cyl 6A). Pre-owned Chrysler 200 models are available with a 2.4 L-liter gas engine or a 3.6 L-liter flex-fuel (FFV) engine, with output up to 283 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 comes with front wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed shiftable automatic. The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 comes with a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. basic warranty, a 3 yr./ 36000 mi. roadside warranty, and a 5 yr./ 100000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2012 Chrysler 200?
Price comparisons for Used 2012 Chrysler 200 trim styles:
- The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 S is priced between $13,990 and$18,590 with odometer readings between 36335 and95343 miles.
- The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 Limited is priced between $13,990 and$19,590 with odometer readings between 33743 and97184 miles.
- The Used 2012 Chrysler 200 Touring is priced between $15,990 and$18,590 with odometer readings between 1392 and29076 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2012 Chrysler 200S are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2012 Chrysler 200 for sale near. There are currently 12 used and CPO 2012 200S listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $13,990 and mileage as low as 1392 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2012 Chrysler 200.
Can't find a used 2012 Chrysler 200s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a used Chrysler 200 for sale.
Find a used Chrysler for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Chrysler 200 for sale.
Find a used certified pre-owned Chrysler for sale.
Should I lease or buy a 2012 Chrysler 200?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out Chrysler lease specials
Check out Chrysler 200 lease specials
Related Used 2012 Chrysler 200 info
Shop used vehicles in your area
- Used Ford Explorer Sport Trac 2005
- Used Volkswagen e-Golf 2017
- Used Lamborghini Huracan 2016
- Used Porsche 911 2011
- Used Audi S8 2016
- Used Volkswagen CC 2016
- Used Volvo XC90 2009
- Used Mitsubishi Outlander 2013
- Used Lexus IS 350 C 2010
- Used Truck Toledo Oh
Popular new car reviews and ratings
- 2023 BMW X6 News
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
- 2023 Dodge Durango News
- 2022 S60
- Volkswagen Arteon 2021
- 2022 SQ7
- 2023 Toyota BZ4X News
- GMC Sierra 2500HD 2022
- 2023 Nissan Maxima News
- BMW X3 M 2021
Other models to consider
- 2022 Chrysler 300
- Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- 2021 Chrysler 300
- 2021 Chrysler Pacifica
- 2021 Voyager
- Chrysler Pacifica 2022
- 2021 Pacifica
Research similar vehicles
- 2021 Genesis G70
- 2021 Nissan Versa
- 2021 Subaru WRX
- 2022 Q60
- 2021 Integra
- 2022 Audi S4
- 2021 Toyota Corolla
- 2021 Dodge Challenger
- 2021 Challenger
- Nissan Altima 2021
Recommended
- Dodge Ram Cargo 2001 MPG
- Ram 1500 2002 Truck Features Specs
- Used Lincoln MKZ 2017
- Toyota Tacoma 1993 Features Specs
- Ford F 250 1994 Regular Cab Features Specs
Other models
- Used Dodge Ram-Pickup-2500 in Azle, TX
- Used Hummer H2 in Swedesboro, NJ
- Used GMC Sierra-1500-Limited in South Boston, MA
- Used Hyundai Elantra-Coupe in La Mirada, CA
- Used Hyundai Elantra-Coupe in Playa Vista, CA
- Used Ferrari FF in Avenel, NJ
- Used Scion FR-S in Burlington, MA
- Used Saturn Vue in Smithfield, VA
- Used GMC Savana-Cargo in Cortland, NY
- Used Lexus GX-470 in Crawfordsville, IN
- Used Acura RSX in Suitland, MD
- Used Chevrolet Trax in Manchester, CT
- Used Ram Dakota in Stockbridge, GA
- Used GMC Canyon in Forest Park, GA
- Used Mitsubishi Eclipse-Spyder in Mechanicsburg, PA
- Used Cadillac CTS in Lancaster, OH
- Used Lamborghini Huracan in New Albany, OH
- Used Cadillac CTS-V in Brea, CA
- Used Hyundai Sonata in Oak Forest, IL
- Used Ford Thunderbird in Union City, GA
- Used Infiniti G-Sedan in Homewood, IL
- Used Land-Rover LR2 in Portage, IN
- Used Lexus RC-350 in Essex, MD
- Used Infiniti Q70 in Madison, TN
- Used Infiniti Q40 in Glenolden, PA
- Used Infiniti G-Sedan in Skokie, IL
- Used Chevrolet Captiva-Sport in North Bergen, NJ
- Used Hyundai Veracruz in Chester, PA
- Used Rolls-Royce Wraith in Greenville, TX
- Used Hyundai Equus in Harleysville, PA