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2015 Chrysler 200C shows off its smooth new curves (pictures)

Take a closer look at the most improved model in Chrysler's lineup, the 2015 200 sedan.

Antuan Goodwin
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Antuan Goodwin
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1 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The improved Chrysler 200C finally hits the road after its New York auto show debut.

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2 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The sedan features a more fluid design that is more attractive than its doughy predecessor.

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3 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The new coupe-like profile reminds us of the Volkswagen CC or the Hyundai Elantra.

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4 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Optional 19-inch wheels further add to the sporty appearance.

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5 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Despite the new look, our 200C is still powered by a revised version of the automaker's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6.

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6 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The V-6 is an optional upgrade. The base engine is a new 2.4-liter Tigershark four-cylinder engine.

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7 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C is a front-driver, but an optional on-demand all-wheel drive system is coming soon.

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8 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Our example is also equipped with optional HID headlamps.

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9 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

A SafetyTec package adds sensors for adaptive cruise control, forward-collision braking, and lane-keeping assist systems.

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10 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C is the most "luxurious" of the 200 models with chrome accents and and upgraded interior. The sporty 200S features black exterior accents in place of much of the chrome.

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11 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The wide, new badge is the first indicator that this is a new, sleeker Chrysler.

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12 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C's sharp, sporty looks don't exactly jibe with its comfort-focused ride.

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13 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Likewise, the 3.6-liter engine -- while powerful enough -- didn't feel very responsive. The new nine-speed automatic transmission is probably to blame.

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14 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Despite having more gears than make sense, the 200 with the V-6 is only good for 23 combined mpg. The four-cylinder does better at 28 mpg combined.

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15 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The SafetyTech package also includes a blind-spot monitoring system.

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16 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

If you're not looking to go as fast as possible, the 200C V-6 is a competent cruiser that is more comfortable than most cars in its class.

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17 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The interior isn't what you'd call luxurious, but it definitely feels "premium."

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18 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C steps up to leather trim for the seats and touch points.

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19 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The steering wheel features metal paddle shifters that are awkwardly positioned (curving around the skip and volume rockers that are also on the back of the wheel) but feel solidly constructed.

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20 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Just ahead of the steering wheel is a dual-gauge instrument cluster that features a large color display in the center.

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21 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Rather than a shift lever, the automatic-only 200C uses a rotary e-shifter that is twisted to select the drive mode. There's also an electronic parking brake.

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22 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The electronic shifter frees up space beneath the center console for a storage space where you can find this Detroit skyline graphic Easter egg.

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23 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The e-shifter has a setting for Sport mode that helps with the power train's responsiveness by adjusting the shift program.

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24 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

You'll not find a CD player in the 200C's dashboard, but there a pair of inputs (USB and aux) in the center console.

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25 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The UConnect infotainment is standard, but our vehicle was equipped with an optional larger 8.4-inch screen and navigation.

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26 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Digital audio sources include USB, Bluetooth, HD Radio, satellite radio, and more.

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27 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Controls for the SafetyTec systems can be found beneath the touchscreen.

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28 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

With just one or two taps, the Active Parking Assist system can automatically measure, alert, and steer into a parking space while the drive controls the brakes and throttle.

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29 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The navigation features basic graphics that are attractive, but not flashy. Voice command allows the driver to input an entire address in a single prompt with good accuracty.

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30 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

In addition, the UConnect apps store allows the driver to add app-powered functionality and connectivity to the 200C.

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31 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Some features are powered by your smartphone's data connection, but others (including 3G Wi-Fi Hotspot) use an onboard cellular antenna and require a subscription.

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32 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Keyless smart entry and push-button starting are nice touches.

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33 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C won't win over anyone with the budget for an Audi or BMW, but the Acura ILX and Buick Verano should be watching the high-tech Chrysler closely.

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34 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

Adaptive cruise controls allow the car to automatically maintain a safe driving distance behind the car ahead. It's a full-speed system that even works in stop-and-go traffic.

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35 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The leather seats aren't very supportive when cornering, but they're wide and comfortable. In the 200C, the buckets are also heated.

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36 of 36 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

2015 Chrysler 200C sedan

The 200C has a vastly improved look and excellent tech, but I'd like to see a more efficient turbocharged four-cylinder option replace the aging V-6.

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