2012 Chrysler 200 Review
2012 Chrysler 200 Review





+146
Used 200 for sale
Chrysler 200 model years
Chrysler 200 types
- Sedan
- Convertible
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Lots of features for the price
- strong V6 engine
- composed ride and handling
- available convertible model.
Cons
- 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.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2012 Chrysler 200 LX 4dr Sedan (2.4L 4cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.57 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$178/mo for 200 LX
200 LX
vs
$185/mo
Avg. Midsize Car
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.
5 star(41%)
4 star(18%)
3 star(17%)
2 star(13%)
1 star(11%)
54 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
One fine vehicle
blacky4, 02/16/2012
2012 Chrysler 200 S 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I have been waiting for my fully loaded Chrysler 200S V6 and I received it a few days ago. I have to say it was well worth the wait. The first thing I noticed was its fit and finish is outstanding, especially the interior.
Next is how smooth and quiet it is at road speed. Then I put the pedal to the metal and unleashed those 283 horses, and boy, this baby flies! I read many reviews on … this car, and it seems like for every positive review there was some character ripping it apart, calling it a warmed over Sebring, etc. Well, if you are in the market for one of these, the only advice I can give is take one for a drive and judge it for yourself. You may be pleasantly surprised.
4.63 out of 5 stars
Surprisingly good!
mrhands, 05/01/2012
2012 Chrysler 200 Limited 2dr Convertible (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
I was looking for something fun, good mileage, comfy, you know, everything for a good price.
I was looking for a convertible to replace my current Euro Special.
I heard and saw good reviews for the 200, took it for a test drive and was sold.
So far, very pleased!
4.63 out of 5 stars
Brand New 2012 Chrysler 200 S
6th_mopar, 02/28/2012
2012 Chrysler 200 S 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Just picked up my 200 S this afternoon. Power from Pentastar 3.6 V-6 is very good. Slight torque steer as noted in a few other columns, but about the same as in a Honda or Toyota. Navigation and sound system is superb. Proud to have bought and am driving my 6th American Mopar product. (75 Duster, 97 Cirrus, 01 Concorde, 02 Intrepid, 06 300). More to come after I get this one broken in. … Initial impression is very good. Glad I test drove it and bought it.
5 out of 5 stars
Chrysler Got It Right!
tonys13, 02/14/2012
2012 Chrysler 200 S 4dr Sedan (3.6L 6cyl 6A)
Great first impression! Seats are great; ride is sporty and comfortable; throttle is responsive; sound system is great; Controls in touch screen are a breeze to use; SAT, NAV, MC is great.
This car feels like a high end euro model!
2012 200 Highlights
Sedan
LX
Base MSRP | $18,995 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 24 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $178/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 14.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
4 out of 5 starsThe National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- 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%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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