Chrysler 200C – video review
Sleek American contender in the ‘Camcordima’ segment
By Shahzad Sheikh
Click below to watch our video review of the new Chrysler 200C.
The Chrysler 200C enters a very tough market segment in the Middle East, one that is dominated by ‘Camcordima’ as Imthishan likes to call it – that is, Camry, Accord and Altima. Even the great value and vastly capacious VW Passat has found it hard to go up against the Japanese stalwarts – and of course the up and coming Korean wannabes (Sonata and Optima).
However the Chrysler 200C has a few tricks up its sleeve that should certainly entice a some potential owners in its direction. Chiefly its executive-level style front interior cabin with its 300C-like classy instrument panel, excellent infotainment system, very handy centre console with numerous bins, compartment and trays, multiple power supplies and connectivity, and all-round great feeling of well-being from the driver’s seat.
There’s a massive boot, comfy rear seating, a good ride, and for the driver, sterling performance in the car we tested, which was the 3.6-litre V6 – yes the acclaimed Pentastar engine.
This thing puts out 295bhp and will get you from rest to 100kph in just 6.5 seconds. Ok, sure, it’s not a sports saloon, but none of its rivals are. Instead, as is appropriate for the segment, you get a very easy to drive and live-with family saloon car, which in this case offers a bit of extra performance punch for the slightly keener driver. All this starting from just AED120,000 ($33k).
Should you not need performance, and the car certainly doesn’t, you can opt for the 2.4-litre version starting from AED89,999. Both come with a 9-speed auto and are front-wheel drive.
Verdict
It’s the maverick’s choice. If all your peers are driving the same-again-saloons and you want something with a bit of class, style and a bit of get-up-and-go, then head over to the Chrysler showroom and check out the 200C. Why not be different?
Chrysler 200C – The Specs
2.4-litre
Price: AED89,999 (US$24.5k))
Engine: 2.4-litre four-cylinder 184bhp @ 6250rpm, 173lb ft @ 4600rpm
Performance: 0-100kph n/a, n/a, 8.4L/100km
Transmission: 9-speed auto, front-wheel drive
Weight: 1575kg
3.6 V6
Price: AED119,999k (US$32.7k)
Engine: 3.6-litre V6 295bhp @ 6350rpm, 262lb ft @ 4250rpm
Performance: 0-100kph 6.5secs, 200kph, 13.8L/100km
Transmission: 7-speed auto, front-wheel drive
Weight: 1575kg
