Chrysler 200C launched at Detroit: pictures, details and specs

Continuing with its recent line-up overhaul, Chrysler unveiled its next generation of 200C at this week’s Detroit Motor Show, the mid-sized saloon being the car it hopes will draw buyers away from the usual choices of Honda Accords and Ford Mondeos.

Emerging from bankruptcy with new owners Fiat at the helm, Chrysler’s latest release does away with the outgoing model’s styling and technical shortcomings, by sitting a sleek body over a proven Fiat based platform.

Helping this much improved exterior chase after the sector’s toughest competition will be two naturally aspirated petrol engines, the entry level Tigershark 2.4-litre four cylinder engine producing 181bhp, whilst a 3.6-litre V6 Pentastar unit will produce 291bhp to add some grunt to the range.

The new Chrysler brings a raft of new technologies to the 200 family, including a multi-link rear suspension which can be adjusted to suit thanks to three different settings. The car also uses a nine-speed transmission that is adjusted electronically via a rotary knob, as well as an optional all-wheel drive system for the V6 that can be decoupled from the rear axle to save fuel.

The new car will be available in a sportier 200S variant which will lose the chrome body trim to gloss black detailing, adding even more aggression to the saloon’s flowing lines. The car’s attractive exterior is matched by an elegant yet modern interior, which utilises the single rotary knob to also control a selection of luxuries. A heated steering wheel, ventilated leather seats and soft blue instrument lights add a sense of class, whilst the low slung dash’s hidden storage compartment and phone charging section help to ensure it remains practical.

The much improved 200 is set to arrive in showrooms this winter, with sales of the family car starting in spring.