2011 Chrysler 200 Limited Convertible (876)

Overview:

This week we’re looking at the 2011 Chrysler 200 Limited Convertible. I don’t know about the Limited thing, because it seems complete to me and more than adequate for what it is. I’m sure it isn’t all things to all people, but it is what it is and an especially impressive true hard-top and convertible all at the same time. It is a Transformer and morphs before your very eyes and is a marvel of technology, says engineer Merkel. Yes, you can say that about other manufacturers retractable hard tops but they do it more expensively. Consider this list: Mercedes-Benz SL Class at over $100,000; Lexus SC 430 about $70,000; Cadillac XLR over $90,000; Mercedes Benz SLK Class at about $50,000; Lexus IS 250C at about $40,000; Infiniti G37 around $45,000; BMW 3-Series from $45,000; Mazda MX-5, VW Eos and Volvo C70 have HT Convertibles at or near the pricing of the Chrysler 200.

On top of that the value of features is quite good, like Smart Cruise control, Blind spot sensor system and Hill start assist. These are favorites of mine so I give the 200 high marks for being as smart as me. All kidding aside, when you go from car to car each week as I do and now numbering 877 you learn to appreciate cars that are smartly and wonderfully made.

General Info:

Parts: US/Canadian – 81% including the Engine & Transmission. It is assembled in Sterling Heights, Michigan, USA. Class is Compact. Cars from Chrysler include: 200, 300, Sebring & Town & Country.

Opinion:

Long ago and seemingly in another life, I was driving in my 1988 Olds hard top convertible down the freeway to the North Island Naval Air Station, San Diego, and not paying a lot of attention to speed when a CHP black and white pulled along side. I looked over and he motioned with his hand up and down to tell me to slow down. A glance at my speedometer and a simple nod of my head acknowledging my agreement with his assessment, and of course I slowed down as he pulled away.

I recall that scene on occasion when I find I’m going a little too fast. Sadly those days are gone along with a simpler life and arguably better people. Those were days when you rarely locked the doors on your house or car for that matter. Truly they were kinder and gentler days. The slogan on police cruisers “to protect and serve” is just that, a slogan. They didn’t need no stinking slogan back then, because we all knew who they were, and if they called you on something they were usually right. That doesn’t apply in Today’s world. I saluted that officer 53 years ago as I do these days. Unfortunately today’s police are more tax collector than servant. Why, because an out of control government is hungry for the dough to support their ‘Culture of Corruption’. Of course in the military it was a full hand salute to show respect, where today it is a few fingers shy of real respect. Oh if we could only return to those days. . . dream on, Joe, dream on.

Handling & Performance:

Smooth, really smooth. I guess all the weight from the retractable hard top mechanism adds to the solid feel and stance. A powerful V6 gives it all the power you’ll likely need, it handles well and is simply an enjoyable ride.

Styling:

Picture worth 1,000 words to show nice clean lines that makes it easy on the eyes. Inside you’re drawn to white piping accenting black leather seats that is a ‘touch of class’. Good job and kudos to the designers.

Fit and Finish:

Quite good. Like so many these days plastic detracts a bit, but in class it is typical and not a real negative. Could be better, but no complaint.

Cost:

All things considered I’m happy with the price to value of this car. Without the retractable hard top the price is very much the same as other competition in class listed here, who don’t even offer a convertible that I could find.

Conveniences and comfort:

A good mix of features for the price noted that includes navigation and a Boston sound system. I particularly appreciate the newest of features today, and that I find most useful, like Smart Cruise control and Blind Spot sensing system.

Recognized Competition:

Chrysler 200 Convertible $35,000, Buick Regal $29,000, Chevrolet Malibu $27,000, Dodge Avenger $25,000, Ford Fusion $25,000, Honda Accord $32,000, Hyundai Sonata $26,000, Kia Optima $26,000, Mazda 6 $29,000, Mercury Milan $25,000, Mitsubishi Galant $24,000, Nissan Altima $25,000, Sabaru Legacy $26,000, Suzuki Kizashi $25,000,Toyota Camry $26,000, Volkswagen Jetta $23,000.

Good News:

Nice ride, super retractable hard top, good quality features, easy on the eyes styling and good fuel economy.

Bad News:

Some rough plastic components.

Standard Equipment:

3.6 liter 283 horsepower V6, 6-speed auto trans., front and side airbags, LATCH child safety system, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes, tire pressure monitor, elect. Stability control, traction control, sentry theft deterrent system, keyless entry, security alarm, smart cruise control, power windows & locks, Bluetooth streaming audio, power one touch retractable hard top, remote start, climate control, leather power seats with 6-way driver & front passenger heated seats, media center with CD/DVD/HDD, 6.5” touch screen display, 30 GB hard drive with 6,700 song capacity, SIRIUS Satellite radio, leather wrapped steering wheel with mounted audio controls, remote USB port, tilt / Telescopic column, halogen auto headlights, fog lights and 18” polished aluminum wheels.

Gas Stats:

$3.73/ Gal avg. July 17, 2011

www.fueleconomy.gov

for more information.

19 City and 29 Highway MPG

Pricing:

MSRP $35,355.