The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible. Image: Chrysler Group, LLC
If you’re at the Chicago Auto Show this week, chances are good you’re not driving a convertible (at least not with the top down). The cold weather isn’t stopping Chrysler, who plans to unveil the new 200 Convertible in Chicago. Chrysler wants us to know the 200 is no Sebring drop top, and their press release emphasizes the changes. The 200, we’re told, is “redesigned, re-engineered, re-packaged and re-priced for 2011”. In other words, throw out any preconceived notions you may have had about Chrysler convertibles based on past experience.
One of the areas stressed by Chrysler is the new car’s “elegant craftsmanship” and “refined driving experience”. The improvements in handling come largely from a suspension that has been thoroughly redesigned, retaining only six suspension bushings (of 28) from the old Sebring. Engine choices are new for 2011, and include either the 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 or the 2.4 liter World Gas I4. On the inside, the cars get a redesigned interior, complete with an available media center, voice command infotainment system, Sirius Travel Link and a 30 Gb hard drive for storing images, music or movies.
Prices start at $27,195 for a base Chrysler 200 Convertible Touring, and go up to $31,990 for a well equipped Limited version. Chrysler also has a sport version in the works, called the 200 Convertible S, but didn’t provide details on pricing. Expect Touring and Limited versions to hit dealer showrooms early in the second quarter, with S model convertibles following later in the year.
Source: Chrysler Group, LLC
Kurt Ernst has been passionate about automobiles and driving nearly his entire life. His early years were shaped working in the family service station, though his real passion was auto racing. After graduating from the University of Colorado, Kurt spent a year club racing with the Sports Car Club of America, before focusing on a business career in marketing and project management. Later, his passion for writing and the automotive hobby found him freelancing for a variety of automotive news sites, including Automotive Addicts and Motor Authority, where his work was syndicated and appeared in several national publications. Recognized as an expert in the automotive field, Kurt joined Hemmings Motor News as an Associate Editor in 2013, and in the years since has progressed to Editor, Hemmings Daily; Managing Editor for Hemmings Motor News, Hemmings Classic Car, Hemmings Muscle Machines, and the Hemmings Daily; and now, Managing Editor, Hemmings Auctions. Kurt was instrumental in organizing the Hemmings Motor News Concours d’Elegance from 2013-2019, and has served as a judge at this event and The Vintage Racing Stable Concours d’Elegance. A Skip Barber Racing School graduate and prolific writer, Ernst is also skilled in copyediting, project management, brand development, and public relations.
