The Chrysler 200 is quite the turnaround versus the model that preceded it, as it's now the sort of car that shoppers will flock to for style—far more, perhaps, than for functionality or value.
Yet it's difficult to gauge the 200's competitive set.
We'd say the Ford Fusion is one of the most sophisticated picks in this class; it feels like a premium car in many respects, and you have a wider range of powertrains (including a Hybrid) from which to choose.
The Kia Optima has been a strong alternative in its outgoing generation, and while a new generation is due this year, we expect that model to get some substantial upgrades inside and to its refinement.
The Honda Accord appeals more on interior space and comfort and has a more traditional look, but it’s one of the best-riding, best-performing cars here; as with the Chrysler, it offers a V-6.
The Chevrolet Malibu has been given more of a personality this year, and a Malibu Hybrid that builds on the technology in the Chevy Volt is on the way early next year.
Finally, the Volkswagen Passat is one of the most anonymous-looking yet comfortable offerings in this class.
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 2016 Chrysler 200Browse Used Listings |  2016 Chevrolet MalibuBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Ford FusionBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Kia OptimaBrowse Used Listings |  2016 Volkswagen PassatBrowse Used Listings |
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| Quick Specs | ||||
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The 2016 Chrysler 200 stands out for style, safety, and V-6 power—but rear-seat head room is its downfall. |
The 2016 Chevrolet Malibu lineup skips performance models, plush luxury appointments, and all-wheel drive; yet the driving experience, comfortable cabin, and frugal numbers may convince you to trade in that Camry, Accord, or Fusion. |
The 2016 Ford Fusion Hybrid combines high gas mileage and a quiet ride with one of the best-looking family-sedan bodies. |
The 2016 Kia Optima is better than its game-changing predecessor in nearly every way—except it’s a little less distinct. |
The 2016 Volkswagen Passat gets a little more excitement in its features and details, while staying safe where it counts. |
| MSRP From | ||||
| $22,115 | $21,625 | $22,750 | $22,140 | $22,440 |
| Gas Mileage | ||||
| 18 MPG City / 36 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 46 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy | 22 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 20 MPG City / 44 MPG Hwy |
| Engine | ||||
| Regular Unleaded I-4 | Turbocharged Gas I4 | Regular Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 | Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4 |
| EPA Class | ||||
| Mid-Size Cars | Midsize Cars | Midsize Cars | Large Cars | Mid-Size Cars |
| Style Name | ||||
| 4-Door Sedan LX FWD | 4-Door Sedan L w/1VL | 4-Door Sedan S FWD | 4-Door Sedan LX Turbo | 4-Door Sedan 1.8T Automatic S |
| Drivetrain | ||||
| Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
| Passenger Capacity | ||||
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Doors | ||||
| N/A | 4 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Body Style | ||||
| Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan | Sedan |
| Transmission | ||||
| Automatic w/OD | Automatic | Automatic w/OD | Auto-Shift Manual w/OD | Automatic w/OD |
| Detailed Spec Comparison | ||||
| 2016 Chrysler 200 vs. 2016 Chevrolet Malibu | 2016 Chrysler 200 vs. 2016 Ford Fusion | 2016 Chrysler 200 vs. 2016 Kia Optima | 2016 Chrysler 200 vs. 2016 Volkswagen Passat | |
