2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible officially released

Chrysler has introduced the new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible following an inglorious photo leak last week.

The new model is a big change from its predecessor, the Sebring. It comes with a new styling by means of revised bumpers, headlights, grille and LED taillights. The car still features a choice of a folding metal roof or a cloth soft top.

Changes have also been made to the inside with a new steering wheel, instrument cluster, soft-touch armrests and touches of silver-color plastic trim. Cabin technology includes SIRIUS satellite radio, a HDD/CD/DVD/MP3 radio with 30 gigabytes as well as the real-time information function SIRIUS Travel Link.

But the changes aren't all cosmetic. Chrysler has completely retuned the 200's suspension and promises much improved ride and handling.



The 200 Convertible will be powered by either a 2.4 liter with 173 hp (129 kW / 175 PS) and 166 lb-ft (225 Nm) of torque or the range-topping 3.6 liter V6 good for 283 hp (211 kW / 287 PS) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. Both power plants are coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The model will be sold in three equipment levels in the U.S. market - Touring, Limited and later the S variant.
Source: Chrysler

2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible officially released

Chrysler has introduced the new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible following an inglorious photo leak last week.

The new model is a big change from its predecessor, the Sebring. It comes with a new styling by means of revised bumpers, headlights, grille and LED taillights. The car still features a choice of a folding metal roof or a cloth soft top.

Changes have also been made to the inside with a new steering wheel, instrument cluster, soft-touch armrests and touches of silver-color plastic trim. Cabin technology includes SIRIUS satellite radio, a HDD/CD/DVD/MP3 radio with 30 gigabytes as well as the real-time information function SIRIUS Travel Link.

But the changes aren't all cosmetic. Chrysler has completely retuned the 200's suspension and promises much improved ride and handling.



The 200 Convertible will be powered by either a 2.4 liter with 173 hp (129 kW / 175 PS) and 166 lb-ft (225 Nm) of torque or the range-topping 3.6 liter V6 good for 283 hp (211 kW / 287 PS) and 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) of torque. Both power plants are coupled to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

The model will be sold in three equipment levels in the U.S. market - Touring, Limited and later the S variant.
Source: Chrysler

Report: Chrysler 300 hybrid coming in 2013

Hybrids have been a mixed bag at Chrylser (remember the short-lived Durango and Aspen hybrids or the on-again-off-again Ram hybrid?), but a new report from Automotive News indicates that a gasoline-electric drivetrain is back on the table for the Pentastar automaker.

During this year's Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne reportedly confirmed that hybrid power will be making its way under the hood of the updated 2011 Chrysler 300. This hybrid powertrain is expected to be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and is earmarked for roll-out in 2013.



Hybrids are slowly becoming more and more popular amongst luxury automakers. Lexus already has an electrified version of its GS sedan – the GS 450h – and both Audi and BMW are working to bring hybrids to market in the mid-range luxury segment, too, via the 5 Series ActiveHybrid and A6 Hybrid.

Hybrids have been a mixed bag at Chrylser (remember the short-lived Durango and Aspen hybrids or the on-again-off-again Ram hybrid?), but a new report from Automotive News indicates that a gasoline-electric drivetrain is back on the table for the Pentastar automaker.

During this year's Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne reportedly confirmed that hybrid power will be making its way under the hood of the updated 2011 Chrysler 300. This hybrid powertrain is expected to be mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and is earmarked for roll-out in 2013.



Hybrids are slowly becoming more and more popular amongst luxury automakers. Lexus already has an electrified version of its GS sedan – the GS 450h – and both Audi and BMW are working to bring hybrids to market in the mid-range luxury segment, too, via the 5 Series ActiveHybrid and A6 Hybrid.