2013 Chrysler 200 Convertible

Review

Editor's Rating

C

http://cdn4.leftlanenews.com/photos/cars/chrysler/thumbnails5.0/2011-chrysler-200-convertible-3_318.jpg
2013 Chrysler 200 Convertible

Although it shares a platform and certain other components with its predecessor, the Sebring Convertible, the Chrysler 200 Convertible is vastly superior to that lackluster model thanks to a more refined interior, classier exterior styling and a powerful Pentastar V6. While far from a sports car, the 200 Convertible does excel as a comfortable open-air cruiser thanks to one of the largest interiors of any drop-top on the market.

Outside, like the mechanically-identical 200 Sedan, the 200 Convertible boasts almost completely new sheetmetal that works in concert with smart details like LED accent lights to give it a sleek, elegant look. Like the outgoing Sebring convertible, it is available with the choice of a retractable hardtop or a conventional soft top.

No longer a cacophony of cheap plastics and hard surfaces, the updated cabin features a simple but coherent overall design with a number of soft-touch materials arranged in strategic locations. The switchgear and instruments carry over from the Sebring, but they now look at home in their ritzier new surroundings.

For the latest model year, the 200 Convertible received a host of minor suspension tweaks geared towards improving both the ride and handling of the drop-top. While the changes add up to slightly more responsive dynamics, the 200 Convertible remains more of a cruiser than a sports car.

Changes Under the Hood
Chrysler recently upgraded the 200 Convertible with its new Pentastar V6. This motor sends a class-leading 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque to the front wheels and pairs with a six-speed automatic to return 19 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

The entry-level engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder that delivers 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque. It pairs up with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic, but acceleration is not neck-breaking and the fuel economy, at 18/29 mpg, is slightly worse than that of the powerful V6.

Trim Level Breakdown
The 200 Convertible comes in three trim levels: Touring, Limited and S.

The Touring comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, a power driver's seat, leather trim on the steering wheel and shift knob, automatic climate control, a vehicle information center with a trip computer and compass and a AM/FM/CD stereo system with six speakers and an iPod jack.

Stepping up to the Limited nets leather upholstery, heated front seats, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, foglamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, a Uconnect media system with voice command functionality and remote start.

The range-topping S trim features the V6 engine as standard while also adding black finish on the grille and foglamp bezels, black headlamp surrounds, dual bright exhaust pipes, suede trim on the interior door panels, special interior "S" badging and a 276-watt Boston Acoustics premium sound system.

Optional equipment includes a navigation system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Uconnect voice command and Bluetooth streaming audio.

Occupant Safety
Every Chrysler 200 Convertible model comes standard with dual front and side airbags in addition to traction and stability control systems.

Key Competitors
The 200 Convertible is priced against drop-tops like the Ford Mustang Convertible, the Chevrolet Camaro Convertible and the Mazda MX-5 Miata, all of which offer more spirited performance but less interior space than the Chrysler.

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