There’s a lot of options available for those looking for a moderately priced family car. However with affordability, often comes a sacrifice in style, with the sleek lines and fancy profiles reserved for luxury models rather than modestly priced roadsters.
With the Chrysler 200, trading functionality for aesthetics is no longer an issue, as the 2015 Chrysler 200 combines the sleek designs found on a luxury sedan with the functionality and affordability that sets it apart from its peers.
The Life Team was recently given the opportunity to test drive the 2015 Chrysler 200 courtesy of LaPorte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. Matt Magnuson, one of the owners of LaPorte Chrysler allowed the Life Team test drive the 200 for one week, taking it everywhere from business meetings in South Bend to social events in Portage. By test driving it for a week, we were able to get a detailed and immersive experience about what makes the car so great, specifically for NWI residents.
When Fiat merged with Chrysler, their goal was to jumpstart the auto lineup that mainly consisted of aging minivans and sedans. With the release of the updated Chrysler 200, the car brought to the table more options for functionality and style that outclassed other sedans in the same category.
The 200 features a standard 2.4L Tigershark MultiAir II four-cylinder engine capable of delivering 184 horsepower and 173 lb-ft of torque. By utilizing a function called MultiAir technology, it helps to increase low engine torque, improve engine efficiency and reduce harmful emissions to the environment. An even more powerful engine option, the 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine is also available offering 295 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The 200 also features an automatic all-wheel drive that automatically detects changing road conditions and adapts to them. Both options were able to provide more than enough power and stability to travel the sometimes treacherous winter roads of Northwest Indiana. During out test drive, we ran into snowstorms both when picking up and dropping off the car, with both times offering incredibly smooth and safe experiences despite our different levels of experience with the car.
One of the most notable features of the Chrysler besides its stylish exterior is how it handled with all kinds of roads and distance driving. Whether driving on the highways or navigating local town streets, the Chrysler 200 navigated it all with ease, all while providing a smooth and comfortable ride.
It’s not just outside, but the inside that impressed us as well. The interior features a stylish dashboard that wraps around the driver, allowing for ease of use and access. The 200 also features a large and configurable LCD screen which allows for easy navigation of menus. For a class of car that typically features interiors with the personality of a waiting room, the 200 reminded us more of an elegant European sedan than a typical family car.
Standard on most 2015 Chrysler 200 models, the high 5 inch touch screen came with SiriusXM Satellite Radio, voice command, Bluetooth streaming audio and a media center compatible for a multitude of our mobile devices for quick and easy integration.
The 200 features a push button start, which also was able to control the 200’s climate control, along with electronic shifting, extending the philosophy of comfort and elegant design to all aspects of the driving experience. Whether you’re driving around town, taking a trip or running errands, we found that the 200 provided a comfortable and ultimately enjoyable experience we’re not typically used to when it comes to cost effective family sedans.
Chrysler is currently running a program aimed at giving new drivers affordable options when purchasing the 200. There are plans that include 0% financing for 7 years, along with $500 off the purchase of the car. Not only does this drop the monthly costs of the car, but it also gives plenty of incentive for drivers looking for buying options.
Working with Matt was an enjoyable experience. Not only was he enthusiastic and knowledgeable about the 200, Matt and his team are also dedicated to being outstanding community members through their support of local school teams and non-profits. Matt is proud of what Chrysler has done to the 200, and he takes great joy in letting the customer share his joy behind the wheel.
We feel that the Chrysler 200 is simply put, a premium car in looks and performance for not-so-premium price. Its stylish design both inside and outside sets it apart from other family sedans while the technology within the car seems to be tailor made for unpredictable Indiana driving and all the weather conditions it may bring.
For those interested in the Chrysler 200, be sure to pay a visit to LaPorte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram. Tell Matt that the Life people sent you. He’ll be more than happy to make your visit a pleasant and memorable one.
LaPorte Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram 1309 Pine Lake Road, LaPorte IN, 46350 (887) 591-7249