LA Auto Show: 2011 Volkswagen EOS

VW has releases the first images and official details for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift which will have its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show at the beginning of next month. Sales in Europe will begin in mid January 2011.

The 2011 Volkswagen Eos facelift comes with BlueMotion technology and a newly developed Start/Stop system that work together to reduce the vehicles fuel consumption and CO2 emissions level. For example, the 2011 Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TDI, that outputs 103 kW / 140 PS, offers now a 4.8 l/100 km fuel consumption, which is 0.7 l/100 km lower than the previous version.

On the styling front, the convertible features redesigned bumpers, modified headlights, a revised grille, and LED taillights. Inside, the cabin boasts a new multi-function display and optional 'Cool' leather seats which reflect sunlight and heat. Tech goodies include Light Assist (which automatically switches between high- and low beams), Park Assist, and Keyless Access.

The 2011 Eos has received multiple equipment additions, such as a multi-function color Premium display, Lights Assist, the second generation of the Park Assist, Keyless Access.
The vehicle’s engine range includes one diesel unit and three petrol units. The diesel is a 140 hp unit that can be mated to a six-speed manual or to a six-speed DSG automatic. The entry-level petrol unit is a 122 hp 1.4 TSI, which is followed by a 160 hp incarnation of the same engine and by a 210 hp 2.0 TSI engine (this is borrowed from the Golf GTI). All the petrol units come with a six-speed manual transmission, while the range-topper can be ordered with a six-speed DSG gearbox.

The interior has been revised to play up the center stack of controls. New materials are said to give the Eos a higher sense of quality. A new steering wheel has been specified, too.

Pricing for the 2011 Volkswagen Eos remains unchanged from the just-superseded version; $46,990 for the Eos 103TDI and $48,990 for the Eos 155TSI, excluding on-road costs.




Press Release

Volkswagen has unveiled the new face of the Eos convertible coupé ahead of its public debut at the Los Angeles Motor Show on 17 November.

The modifications bring the Eos in line with the latest iteration of Volkswagen’s design language as seen applied to the new Polo, Passat and Sharan. Horizontal lines dominate the front of the car with a prominent new grille complete with chrome highlights that create the impression that the Eos is wider and lower than the car it replaces. A set of new headlight units, similar in shape to those fitted to the Golf, features the option of integrated LED daytime running lights to lend the revised Eos an elegant new look.

A revised front bumper featuring new airdams and fog lights is joined by a reprofiled bonnet. At the back of the car a set of new tail lights, drawing on the look of those fitted to the new Passat, creates a distinctive new appearance.

As before, the Eos features an advanced five piece folding roof with an integrated tilt sliding glass sunroof. To go from a closed coupé to an open cabriolet – an operation that can now be undertaken remotely via the key fob if the car is specified with Keyless Entry – takes just 25 seconds while the boot capacity ranges from 205 litres when the roof is down up to 380 litres with the roof closed.

Inside, new trim finishes enhance the interior of the Eos which is both comfortable and extremely well equipped. Highlights include a leather multifunction steering wheel, air conditioning, a powerful eight-speaker CD stereo system and sports seats.

The new Eos will be available with a range of efficient petrol and diesel engines when deliveries commence in the UK early in 2011. These include a 1.4-litre TSI engine developing 122 PS, a 2.0-litre TSI unit producing 210 PS as well as a refined 2.0-litre TDI engine producing 140 PS. This unit, with BlueMotion Technology modifications including automatic Stop/Start and battery regeneration systems, can return a combined economy of 58.8 mpg.

Prices and specifications for the new Eos will be announced when ordering opens for the car in November.

2011 Peugeot 308 Facelift

Peugeot has just released the images and details of the revised 308 hatchback. which will make its first appearance at the Geneva motor show in March.

The new Peugeot 308 will be available as Hatchback, CC and SW and comes in Access, SR, Active and Allure trim levels. There’ll also be a new Eco model – the Peugeot 308 e-HDi microhybrid diesel. The USP of the e-HDi is its CO2 emissions which dip to 98g/km, meaning free VED and congestion charge.

LED driving lights are the other big difference seen on the nose, and overall changes to the front bumper mean an amazing 25kg average weight saving. The new front end will grace the 308 hatch, SW estate and CC coupé-cabriolet, but at the back, each variant stays the same. The revamped range also gets a new model: the e-HDi microhybrid diesel. 

The Peugeot 308 range is divided into 8 engines: the 1.4 petrol 98 hp 4.1 VTI, 1.6 VTI 120 hp, 156 hp and 200 hp diesel and 92 hp 1.6 HDI, 2.0 HDI 112 hp and 150 hp and 163 with manual transmission or 5 6-speed automatic and on some setups.

The new Peugeot 308 will be available in three body styles; Hatchback, CC and SW, and four multi-model trim levels; Access, SR, Active and Allure. A range topping hatchback and CC THP 200 model will also be available in a single GT trim level.

The interior has been updated with new combinations of materials and accessories of the features included, among which confirmed the GTi, characterized by red stitching, GTi logo on the steering wheel and aluminum alloy in Storm Gray color.




Press Release

NEW PEUGEOT 308 – ELEGANT, EFFICIENT AND FULL OF NEW TECHNOLOGY

• New micro-hybrid e-HDi reduces CO2 emissions to 98 g/km*
• Latest generation Euro 5 VTi, THP petrol and HDi diesel engines
• Four model range – Access, SR, Active and Allure – all with high-level specification
• Two range topping GT THP 200 models – Hatchback & CC
• Range starts at £15,245 O.T.R
• On sale in May

The New Peugeot 308 will be launched in the UK in May with a new look, a range of innovative technology and CO2 emissions from just 98 g/km.

Since launch in September 2007 over 900,000 308 models have been sold worldwide. In the UK over 84,000 vehicles have been sold, making it the second most popular Peugeot model.
The New Peugeot 308 is being launched onto the UK market integrating all the latest Peugeot styling elements already seen on the Peugeot 508 and the SR1 Concept Car. The new Peugeot 308 will be available in three body styles; Hatchback, CC and SW, and four multi-model trim levels; Access, SR, Active and Allure. A range topping hatchback and CC THP 200 model will also be available in a single GT trim level.

A new look at the front with the latest LED headlamps and running lights gives the New Peugeot 308 an elegant and modern look. All the dynamic and emotional strengths of the original Peugeot 308 have been retained and strengthened further with the introduction of more efficient engines and Peugeot’s innovative micro-hybrid
e-HDi Stop & Start technology.

Peugeot’s micro-hybrid e-HDi Stop & Start technology is the latest generation technology and combined with Peugeot’s class leading 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 Euro 5 diesel engine reduces CO2emissions to 98 g/km. This engine option will also be available with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed electronically controlled manual gearbox (EGC). This will give the New Peugeot 308 the lowest emissions in its segment.

All models feature air conditioning, ESP (Electronic Stability Programme), ABS, EBFD, EBA, front and rear electric windows with child security, remote control central door locking with deadlocks and six SMART safety airbags.

To ensure the New Peugeot 308 is as environmentally efficient as possible all factors affecting CO2emissions have been optimised;

• Overall weight reduced by 25 kg on average on all models
• Fitment of new 16” ultra low rolling resistance tyres
• Optimisation of all engine options (VTi, THP petrol and HDi diesel engines to Euro5)
• Cx of 0.28 for the low consumption models – Record for this segment

This also enables the New Peugeot 308 HDi FAP 92 model, fitted with a five-speed manual gearbox, to emit CO2 emissions of only 110 g/km.

At launch four petrol and four diesel engines will be available.

Euro 5 Petrol Engines
1.4 litre VTi 98 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox

1.6 litre VTi 120 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox
■Automatic Gearbox

1.6 litre THP 156 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox
■Automatic Gearbox

1.6 litre THP 200 (GT Hatchback & CC models only) ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox

Euro 5 HDi Diesel Engines ■

1.6 litre HDi FAP 92 ■5-Speed Manual Gearbox

1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox
■6-Speed Electronically Controlled Manual Gearbox

2.0 litre HDi FAP 150 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox

2.0 litre HDi FAP 163 ■6-Speed Manual Gearbox (CC)
■Automatic Gearbox

The New Peugeot 308 will be launched at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and go on sale in the UK in May. The new range will start from £15,245 on-the-road with an improved standard specification to the current model.

*The 98 g/km CO2 308 1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 model will be class leading in its segment and is pending approval, and will be available from summer 2011

Technologically efficient and elegant

The new Peugeot 308 comes with a new look, features innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology and optimises fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, which start from just 98 g/km.

With its new lines, the Peugeot 308 subtly incorporates the Marque’s latest stylistic codes. The car’s body follows the contours of the mechanical assembly underneath. The appeal of the three body shapes (Saloon, CC and SW) thus acquires a more technological elegance, illustrated by the presence of LED front lights with light guide. Dynamism and emotion are present as ever in the genes of the 308, particularly with its more assertive look thanks to new Xenon headlamps with titanium coloured mask and the hatchback in its exclusive GTi finish.

Determined to consolidate its leadership in terms of road holding and driving pleasure, the Peugeot 308 seeks to become a reference in terms of environmental efficiency. Indeed, following in the footsteps of the 508, the new Peugeot 308 features innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, the latest generation STOP & START, on the 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 bhp Euro 5 engine. This offer, on the “entry level” engine, is available with a semi-automatic manual gearbox and, for the first time, with a full manual gearbox, for optimal driveability.

In addition to micro-hybrid technology, all factors impacting the level of CO2 emissions have been optimised:

• weight reduced by 25 kg on average per car;
• launch of 16” tyres with Very Low Rolling Resistance;
• optimisation of the latest generation engines (VTi, THP, HDi Euro 5);
• Cx of 0.28 for versions with a low fuel consumption – A record in the segment.

Fuel consumption sets the standard:

• 98 g/km of CO2* for the 308 saloon 1.6 litre e-HDi

FAP 112 bhp BMP6 – A record in the segment
(* pending approval, available in the summer of 2011

• 104 g/km CO2 at launch);
• available power trains, comprising 4 petrol engines ranging from 98 bhp to 200 bhp for the exclusive GTi version and 4 diesel engines from 92 bhp to 163 bhp, have also been optimised to ensure a comprehensive range of engines guaranteeing environmental efficiency. As a result, the basic version – the 308

saloon 1.6 litre HDi FAP 92 bhp with manual gearbox – is well positioned, with CO2 emissions reduced to only 110 g/km.
The dimensions and quality of equipment on the new 308 remain unchanged, regardless of body shape, guaranteeing a spacious and comfortable passenger compartment. The same is true of primary, secondary and tertiary safety, which remain at the highest level. The 308 facelift will receive its world premiere at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show and will go on sale from April 2011 in Europe. Its mission is to continue the success story of the 308 family, with nearly 900,000 models sold since its launch in September 2007.

ELEGANT LINES ENHANCED BY ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

The design of the 308 facelift subtly incorporates the new stylistic codes of the Peugeot Marque. While the dimensions are unchanged, the new lines marry as closely as possible the car’s mechanical assembly to accentuate its athletic poise, while the front aspect gives a fresh look to the “floating” front grille concept. Greater importance accorded to unbroken surfaces marks a determination to present an elegant and luxurious style. The central protective capping, available in a black lacquer finish, has been made thinner to give greater prominence to the sheer metal. This is also true of the single air intake which is now smaller in size. Styling elements enhance the natural elegance which emanates from the 308 facelift. A satin chrome bead enhances the new front grille, as do horizontal bars, available in lustrous black or chrome according to body shape (saloon, CC or SW).

The bottom section of the lower front panel, which helps visually to broaden the car and “plant” it on the road, incorporates new dual-function lights (daytime and sidelights) shaped like a boomerang, available according to versions. With their meticulous finish, they blend perfectly and are harmoniously positioned on the upper surround of the fog light housing. Composed of variable intensity LEDs and a light guide, they guarantee a unique visual signature by day and by night while illustrating the high level of technology featured on the 308 facelift.

In the upper section, the V-shaped nose of the bonnet is one of the main expressive features of the 308. It has been redesigned to fit the car’s mechanical assembly as closely as possible and provides a new link with the floating front grille, in line with Peugeot’s new stylistic codes. The Marque badge, in its new dual material construction, is proudly positioned at the tip of the bonnet on a new black lacquer base set with a chrome bead, also in the shape of a V.

The outline of this nose, fluid and characteristic, is more curvaceous, particularly at the junction of the lights and the bonnet. The new smooth glass front headlamps, closely fitting the three cylinders, suggest a look that is both refined and assertive. And when the 308 is equipped with dynamic bi-directional Xenon headlamps complete with titanium coloured base, this look becomes even more profound, displaying all the strength of character of the 308 facelift.

The dynamism of the front aspect is echoed on the sides of the car. A styling line, running from the front wheel arches, crosses the side of the body and the rear lights before dropping towards the lower rear panel and coming to an end in the lower section.

The fluidity of the style is enhanced by the lateral glazed surface which follows a plunging waistline, and also by the panoramic rear window, which overlaps the rear quarter panel pillars.

Lastly, to establish the general appearance of the 308, a lower waistline starting from the lower front panel extends as far as the rear bumper. The car therefore seems well poised on the road, ready to exploit its dynamic qualities to the full . New diamanté effect 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels or Storm Grey 18 inch wheels for the GTi version underline this dynamic appeal.

The sense of dynamism is enhanced further by the car’s rear style.

On the saloon, the wraparound lower rear panel adds a note of robustness and perceived quality as well as a sporty touch thanks to the presence of a styling element in the shape of a spoiler and two inserts, which can have a chrome finish, suggesting exhaust nozzles.

The new Lion takes its place in the centre of the tailgate, while a satin chrome bead emphasizes the horizontal waistline, bringing a new balance to the rear of the 308.

On the SW, the contours of the robust lower panel and the rear lights have been designed to allow a wide boot aperture. The low load sill resulting from this design promises easy loading and a large internal capacity. From an aesthetic point of view, a horizontal waistline runs around the rear tailgate in its central section to “stretch” the car. This sensation is amplified by the body-coloured number plate insert surmounted by the new Lion badge.

On the CC the strength of the rear style is repeated, with a sense of horizontality given to the rear aspect that reinforces the impression of width. Numerous details add to this overall effect: the concave movement crossing the tailgate under the spoiler, the chrome bead framing the number plate and the presence of an air diffuser in the lower section. On either side and extending over the wings, the ruby-coloured LED rear lights with light curtain effect broaden the silhouette and give the 308 CC a unique and spectacular visual signature.

A FLUID AND LUXURIOUS INTERIOR

Stylists worked hard to exploit to the full the interior volumes freed up by the semi-tall architecture of the 308. They therefore designed a particularly inclined fascia panel, almost symmetrical to the front windscreen pillars, to offer unimpeded exterior visibility.

In addition, there was a marked determination to give the interior a very upmarket feel and an enhanced sense of perceived quality. The result is a fluid, pure and elegant fascia panel where pride of place is given to superior materials, according to finish: soft covering, leather trim, chrome, black lacquered materials... The care given to the finish and the emphasis on interior comfort are evident in every detail. According to the level in the range, new motifs decorate the door panel strips, panel trim, thumb rests on the steering wheel, etc. Similarly, the special seats on the GTi version have red visible stitching with specific marking on top of the seat back and an aluminium steering wheel ring showing the word “GTi”. Dark-tinted rear windows combined with dark wheel trims (Storm Grey) and the titanium mask of the discharge lamps, give this version a sporty and assertive identity, perfectly in keeping with the dynamic potential of its 1.6 litre THP 200 bhp engine.

Inside the 308 CC, the eye is caught also by the elegance of the 4 seats with integral head restraints and the possibility of full leather trim on the fascia panel, in different shades, which convey a touring car image. This distinctive design makes for even more comfortable seats with an Airwave warm air diffuser behind the necks of the front passengers. The pleasure of open-top driving is thus enhanced.

Interior comfort and convenience

A SPACIOUS AND BRIGHT PASSENGER CO MPARTMENT

The passenger compartment has been designed to ensure that a sense of space and brightness predominates, making occupants feel they don’t want their journey to end.

The interior dimensions and efforts by the designers to free up as much space as possible for passenger comfort make the 308 one of the most spacious cars in its segment.

Elbow width at the front is 1464 mm for the saloon and SW body shapes, and rises to 1492 mm for the Coupé Cabriolet version. At the rear, these dimensions are respectively 1471 mm and 1321 mm for the CC. The feeling of space is even more noticeable on account of the many clever storage spaces available inside the 308. Total storage capacity is 42 litres, making life inside the car easier and preserving space for the occupants.

All of the 7 passengers that can be seated in the 308 SW thanks to the optional additional 2 rear seats can benefit from these fitted spaces. They can also modulate and adjust the car’s interior as necessary by opting for individual seats in row 2. Nor has the boot volume been ignored, with a capacity under the parcel shelf of 674 litres for the SW and 430 litres for the saloon. With the load potential exploited to the full, the capacities are 2149 and 1398 litres respectively.

On the CC, all four passengers can benefit from the availability of a large boot capacity (465 litres) in the coupé configuration. On the cabriolet, with the retractable roof stored in the boot, the boot still offers a capacity of 266 litres. What’s more, it only takes 20 seconds to convert the 308 CC into a dynamic coupé or an elegant cabriolet.

Passengers in the 308 saloon and SW will also be able to benefit from a “sunny” passenger compartment thanks to the panoramic roofs available for these body shapes. They increase the total glazed surface area to 4.86 m² on the saloon and 5.58 m² on the SW. The light level inside the car can be regulated by means of an electrically-operated roller blind associated with this equipment.

To make the journey even more pleasant, automatic dual-zone air conditioning is available. With its active charcoal filter, it also reduces hydrocarbon odours inside the passenger compartment.

Finally, passengers will be able to benefit from a high quality audio and telematics system: WIP Sound audio system, Bluetooth hands-free kit, WIP Nav satellite navigation and WIP Com 3D with a retractable 7” 16/9 colour display. A JBL hi-fi system is also available and may be combined with laminated side windows for optimal acoustic performance. Regardless of body shape, the 308 facelift offers a high level of comfort and convenience.

REDUCTION OF CO 2

The reduction of CO2 emissions was one of the main objectives of this project. This resulted in a search for environmental efficiency at all levels. All factors influencing fuel consumption were optimised:

• weight reduced by 25 kg on average per car;
• launch of 16” tyres with Very Low Rolling Resistance;
• use of a piloted oil pump on 1.6 litre HDi engines;
• optimisation of operation of the alternator on some engines;
• improvement of power steering control (electropump unit);
• Cx of 0.28 for versions with a low fuel consumption – A record in the segment;
• e-HDi micro-hybrid technology;
• 98 g/km of CO2* for the 1.6 litre e-HDi FAP 112 bhp BMP6 version – A record in the segment (* pending approval, available in the summer of 2011 – 104 g/ km CO2 at launch).-

e-HDi MICRO-HYBRID TECHNOLOGY

After the 508, the new Peugeot 308 is the second of the Marque’s cars to introduce the innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology, a new generation STOP & START.

This innovation is based on the combination of a 1.6 litre HDi Euro 5 diesel engine and a reversible alternator ensuring the STOP & START function. Relying on an alternator control system (Volt Control) to recover energy during deceleration and a hybrid battery to store and deliver additional energy on startup (e-booster), the HDi unit allows:

• a 15% reduction in fuel consumption in urban traffic;

• a 5 g/km reduction in CO2 emissions for approved cycle fuel consumption;

• 40% faster restarting (400 ms) than with an enhanced starter STOP & START;

• activation of engine cut-out from 20 km/h with a manual gearbox (8 km/h for the electronicallycontrolled gearbox);

• increased driveability of t

he STOP & START (silent operation, no vibrations). The second-generation reversible alternator used here has a power of 2.2 kW and allows up to 600,000 restarts. However the STOP & START function can be de-activated by the driver if preferred by means of a button on the fascia panel.

1.6 LITRE e-HDI FA P 112 BHP ENGINE

To deploy this technology on a large scale, the new 308 proposes e-HDi technology with a “basic” engine, the 1.6 litre HDi FAP 112 bhp, which can be coupled with two gearboxes (manual or electronicallycontrolled). This is a first, since hitherto e-HDi technology was available only with the BVMP6 electronically-controlled gearbox. This new offer maximises driving enjoyment by increasing the phases of driving “in silence”. When coupled with a manual gearbox, engine cut-out is possible from a speed of 20 km/h.

A CO MPREHENSIVE RANGE OF LATEST-GENERATION ENGINES

To reduce CO2 emissions as much as possible, the 308 facelift is uniquely equipped with the very latestgeneration engines for both petrol (VTi or THP engines) and diesel versions (new HDi Euro 5 engines). On the saloon, all 8 available engines, as well as different possible gearbox combinations (manual, electronically-controlled manual or automatic), will allow every customer to find the version that suits them best.

PEUGEOT KNOW-HOW

True to the Marque’s values in terms of driving pleasure, the 308 facelift seeks also to preserve its leadership in terms of road holding. The features that make the 308 a reference are maintained:

• rigid body structure;
• McPherson type front suspension;
• rear suspension with torsion beam;
• hydraulic dampers with valves;
• power steering with variable assistance piloted by an electro-pump unit;
• large disc brakes (ventilated at the front) – up to 302 x 26 mm;
• ABS, electronic brake force distribution, emergency brake assist and automatic switching on of hazard warning lights as standard;
• Bosch 8.1 ESP according to versions.

HIGH LEVEL SAFETY ON ALL CO UNTS

Whether in terms of primary, secondary or tertiary safety, the 308 facelift is positioned at the highest level. Firstly, the excellent rigidity of the structure ensures optimal operation of the wheels and suspension ensuring a high level of primary safety. In terms of secondary safety, the structure itself has been rigorously designed to withstand even the most severe impact, thanks in particular to a triple force channel at the front. The use of high-strength steel and “multilayer” reinforcements in specific areas has made it possible to raise the level of safety of occupants while reducing the overall weight of the car.

In addition to the performance of the structure, efficient means of restraint are proposed:

• up to 8 air bags on the saloon and SW;
• up to 6 air bags on the CC, including 2 head air bags at the front;
• extractible safety hoops on the CC in the event of rollover;
• 3-point seat belts with belt not fastened or unfastened acoustic warnings;
• Isofix fixtures.

Lastly, with regard to tertiary safety, the 308 facelift benefits from Peugeot Connect services. Occupants are put through to an assistance helpline when an emergency call is made (Peugeot Connect SOS) or a breakdown service in the case of a mechanical incident (Peugeot Connect Assistance). These services are available via a Peugeot Connect unit or with the top-of-the-range WIP Com 3D telematics offer.

NEW COLO URS AVAILABLE

The 308 facelift range offers a total of 11 colours, three of which are new:

• Bourrasque Blue
• Philaea Blue
• Umber (already available on the 308 CC)
• Bianca White
• Hurricane Grey
• Vapor Grey
• Aluminium
• Shark Grey
• Black Pearl
• Babylon Red
• Pearlescent White (only on the 308 CC).

Chicago Auto Show: 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible

Chrysler has unveiled the Chrysler 200 Convertible, which will make its world public debut at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show on February 9,

The new 200 Convertible is available with the choice of two power automatically latching tops, a body-color-painted steel retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.

The 200 Convertible will sell with a choice of four-cylinder or V6 engines, both with a six-speed automatic (a dual-clutch six-speed will be available on the four-cylinder with late introduction), and with a choice of single-button-activated cloth or hard tops. Differentiating the 200 from the Sebring is a retuned suspension, a new V6, the six-speed/four-cylinder combination, a new interior, and dramatically different styling.

The Chrysler 200 Convertible will start arriving at dealerships in spring with a base price of $27,195.

Source: Chrysler





Press Release

New 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible Makes its Worldwide Auto Show Debut at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show


Chrysler Group LLC today announced the new 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible will make its worldwide auto show debut at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show, starting with the media days on February 9th. Consumers can check out the new convertible February 11 - 20 at McCormick Place, the home of the 103rd edition of the Chicago Auto Show.

Redesigned, re-engineered, re-packaged and re-priced for 2011, the Chrysler 200 Convertible offers consumers an open-air driving experience featuring elegant craftsmanship inside and out, a fun, yet refined driving experience, innovative technology, every available safety feature as standard equipment and a revised model lineup featuring an extraordinary level of standard content. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is an exciting alternative for customers who want the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a remarkable value.

"The coming out of the stylish new 200 Convertible at the Chicago Auto Show completes the brand transformation in conjunction with the largest consumer auto show in the country," said Olivier Francois, CEO - Chrysler Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "The 200 Convertible is the fourth new vehicle introduced in the last three months coming on the heels of the debuts of the new 2011 Chrysler 200 sedan and 2011 Town & Country minivan in Los Angeles and the introduction of the all-new flagship Chrysler 300 in Detroit. Starting in Chicago, the entire Chrysler product lineup is new for 2011."

With a stylish new exterior design, refined ride and handling characteristics complements of an upgraded suspension, an efficient new powertrain, safety features that are all standard on every model, and a beautifully crafted all-new interior, the 200 Convertible stands alone in the segment for customers who crave the wind in their hair and sun on their face but still want to comfortably seat four adults. The new 200 Convertible is available with the choice of two power automatically latching tops, a body-color-painted steel retractable hard top, or a cloth soft top, both of which can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.

The all-new interior for 2011 allows customers to step into a level of craftsmanship, content and comfort that is world-class. Innovative features including an available media center with voice command that is easy to use and offers SIRIUS Satellite Radio, a 30 gigabyte HDD/CD/DVD/MP3 radio with SIRIUS Travel Link, which provides real-time information, keeping driver and passengers connected and making the drive something to look forward to.

Virtually every part of the suspension on the new 200 Convertible has been retuned or redesigned for 2011, including 22 of 28 suspension bushings, providing drivers a fun, confident, handling performance in all driving situations, whether it's commuting to work or a weekend adventure on scenic roads.

A new and improved powertrain lineup also contributes to the new 200 Convertible's driving experience. The 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible is available with the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine which provides an exhilarating driving experience that offers customers the best of both worlds - outstanding V-6 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy. The 200 convertible also is available with the proven 2.4-liter I4 World Gas Engine. Both engines are mated to a six-speed transmission.

With a starting U.S. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price of $27,195 (including $750 destination) the 2011 Chrysler 200 Convertible will be available in three different configurations in the United States - the Chrysler 200 Convertible Touring model, 200 Convertible Limited model and the 200 Convertible S (late availability) model. All are packed with style, safety, innovative features and a dynamic, open-air driving experience at a surprising value.