2016 Chrysler 200

• Performance: 2.4-liter, four-cylinder, 184 horsepower; 3.6.liter, V-6, 295 horsepower
• Mileage estimate: 23-36 mpg; 19-32 mpg
• Estimated price: $21,995 to $31,785
• Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles; drivetrain: 5 years/60,000 miles; roadside assistance: 5 years/100,000; corrosion: 5 years/unlimited

Hoping to become more of a challenger among some stiff competition, the folks at Chrysler completely redesigned the Chrysler 200 in 2015.

One year later the results are quite positive for Chrysler. The revamped 200 is getting a lot of consideration from people shopping for a midsize family sedan.

A replacement in 2011 for the much-maligned Chrysler Sebring, the Chrysler 200 has been able to fill a void that the American auto manufacturer hoped would be the end result.

Notable Redesign Highlights

• Switching to a slightly enlarged version of the platform used for the Dodge Dart and Jeep Cherokee
• Upgrading its four-cylinder engine to 184 horsepower
• Both engines are matched to a new nine-speed automatic transmission
• Overhauling the cabin with improved materials and better touchscreen electronics interface
• No longer offering a convertible option
• All-wheel drive is an option for all V6 models

The Chrysler 200 has seen sales exceeding initial expectations. That's not easy to do in a competitive class of midsize sedans where the competition is fierce. The notable competitors include the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet Malibu, Mazda 6 and Nissan Altima, all sedans with many appealing traits and a history of success.

Besides the aforementioned changes, Chrysler also made alterations to the exterior, where appearance has always been one of the 200’s strengths. There’s nothing too appealing about the class leaders – Camry and Accord – while the Chrysler 200 has a European style that is more modern and dynamic. The 200’s sweeping lines gave it a classy overall appearance.

The 2016 Chrysler 200 comes with a choice of two engines. The base model is a 2.4-liter, four-cylinder that produces 184 horsepower and 173 pound-feet of torque. It’s somewhat on the pokey side – clocked at 9.0 seconds going 0-60 mph. The gas mileage (23-36 mpg) has improved and is now a reported 28 mpg on average.

For car buyers who really value performance, the second option is a better choice. The Chrysler engine on the S and C trims is a 3.6-liter, V6 that has 295 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It’s much swifter than the base model, going 0-60 mph in 6.2 seconds, but predictably not as good on gas (19-32 mpg).

The redesign addressed the 200’s outdated cabin design and interface, which now features a more technological setup. For comfort, the 200 is just fine for driver and passenger, but the back seat will be cramped for many adults. The trunk provides 16.0 cubic feet and the 60/40 split-folding rear seat has a small trunk pass-through.

While improvements have arrived in a number of areas, this won’t catapult the Chrysler 200 into the elite level of midsize sedans. But the 200 is worthy of a look and a test drive.

Jeffrey Weidel lives in Rocklin and can be reached at [email protected].