2012 Chrysler 200 Preview

Replace the defunct Cherokee, the Chrysler 200 has had one year to find his identity, but has grown from a slow start. Chrysler aims of the starting gate a younger audience, the loading of the 200 gadgets, but keep the price affordable. In the second year on the market has not changed much in 200 inside and out.

New or improved interior, including the instrument panel, steering wheel and seats are all carried over from last year. The exterior includes the facelift of the 200 received its introduction to a new front end, LED headlights and taillights. A newly designed suspension system pushes back on bumps in the road in an attempt to drive a competitive offering.

Body styles: Sedan, convertible

Engines: 2.4-liter inline-4, 3.6-liter V-6

Transmissions: six-speed automatic, four-speed automatic

Models: LX, Touring, Limited convertible, Touring, Limited sedan, S Convertible

With almost every system new or upgraded last year, don't expect to see much of a change for the 2012 model year. The front and rear fenders were redesigned last year, along with the grille and hood, which now wears Chrysler's new winged logo. LED headlights and fog lights illuminate the dark road in front of the 200 while and LED taillights warn people behind when you're coming to a stop. The all-new interior continues to be a significant step up from the older Sebring.

Redesigned sheet metal last year has translated into sharper lines for the 200. The new front end showcases Chrysler's new winged logo that sits at the edge of a new hood in between the projector headlights. All of this is tied together to give the 200 a much needed facelift. A new trunk door, rear end, and LED taillights also return for their sophomore season.

A new instrument cluster was designed for the 2011 200 and no changes are expected for the 2012 model year. The steering wheel also remains the same and Chrysler offers an option of either leather or cloth seats. Air outlets on the dashboard were reconfigured last year to allow optimal air flow throughout the cabin. The available media center offers radio, both regular and satellite, an iPod input, and a navigation system.

Chrysler redesigned the suspension last year and it carries the same set up for 2012. The new suspension system sharpens steering response and feel while the 2.4-liter World Gas Engine powers the 200. Mated with a six-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, the inline-4 produces 173 horsepower. You can also option for the 3.6-liter V-6 engine that churns out 283 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Chrysler 200 offers safety features such as stability and traction control, ABS with brake assist, active front head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Electronic stability control and Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children system are standard safety features on the 2012 200.

LX Sedan (2.4-liter): 21 mpg city/30 mpg hwy

Touring Sedan (2.4-liter): 21 mpg city/30 mpg hwy

Limited convertible (2.4-liter): 21 mpg city/30 mpg hwy

Touring convertible (2.4-liter): 18 mpg city/29 mpg hwy

S Sedan (3.6-liter): 14 mpg city/21 mpg hwy

Limited sedan (3.6-liter): 21 mpg city/30 mpg hwy

S Convertible (3.6-liter): 19 mpg city/29 mpg hwy