After the sedan version was unveiled back in September, Chrysler has now decided to reveal the first official images of the future Chrysler 200 Convertible. According to the official statements made at the Detroit Auto Show, the new Chrysler 200 will be sold on the European market as the Lancia Flavia, both sedan and convertible and will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show this upcoming March.

The 200 Convertible's design has been slightly modified in order to accommodate the roof folding mechanism. The engine line-up will also remain unchanged: a 2.4-liter I-4 World Gas Engine mated to either a four- or six-speed automatic transaxle, or the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine mated to a six-speed automatic transaxle. Most likely the European customers will also enjoy some diesel engines in their future Lancia Flavia, but none for the American market.

Hit the jump to read more about the 2012 Chrysler 200 Convertible.

2012 Chrysler 200 Convertible

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Chrysler 200 Convertible
  • Engine/Motor: V6
  • Horsepower: 283
  • Torque: 260
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array
Pros
Cons

Exterior and Interior

Like with the sedan version the 200 Convertible will get a a new hood, rear decklid and exterior mirrors, projector headlamps and fog lamps, LED taillamps, and an LED center high-mounted stop light. The roof folding mechanism is placed behind the rear seats. As for the interior, there will be a new instrument panel, bezels and gauge face, upgraded leather and cloth seats with a new design, new “soft touch” door trim panels, new “soft touch” armrests and dash, and new heating and cooling outlets in the instrument panel.

The Engine

The base version will be powered by a 2.4-liter I-4 World Gas engine that produces 173 HP and 166 lb-ft torque and mated to either a four- or six-speed automatic transmission, or the new Pentastar V-6 engine which produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque and is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Competition

Despite its general and unappealing look, the future 200 Convertible might actually be a successful model, and that's only because it is pretty difficult finding a competitor in the same class. There's no Toyota Camry Solara, and makers like Ford or Honda do not offer a convertible in this automotive category. So, who's left?

There are always a models like the Volvo C70 or even the Infiniti G37 Convertible->ke2402, but for those you will have to pay a little bit more.

When Can I Buy One?

Expect the new Chrysler 200 Convertible to go on sale by the end of the year. It will be a little bit pricier than the sedan version that starts just under $20K.