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  3. Rendered: Chrysler's 200C Takes Form - Is it Set to Replace Sebring?


At the 2009 Detroit Auto Show, Chrysler unveiled its 200C EV Concept to overwhelming praise. Based on a shortened version of the automaker's 300C sedan, the concept version of Chrysler's new mid-sized sedan packed an electrified punch under the hood, utilizing a 268-horsepower electric motor paired to a range-extending two-cylinder turbocharged gas engine. The idea isn't dissimilar to the upcoming Chevrolet Volt's drivetrain and we wondered if the electric sedan could give the Volt a little friendly competition should it come to fruition.

Recently, diagrams that are reportedly leaked patent drawings have come to light that depict subtle, production-spec changes to the 200C's conceptual skin. Based on those sketches, our ace rendering team came up with its take (the blue car shown here) on what the actual production car could look like. To make the changes even more apparent, we're also showing you the official Chrysler photos of the grey car that was retouched by our artist.

The overall shape of the rendering is virtually identical to the concept car, but many of the blatantly concept-like touches have been replaced with more conventional features. Out back twin exhaust pipes aren't nearly as stylized as the concept version's though the taillights gain an LED design. The wheels too lose their heavy chrome finish and aren't quite as complex, while the front lights feature twin projector beams and the fog lights lose their chrome surround.

So is the 200C on its way to dealer showrooms? Few official updates have been given on the car's status, but there are plenty of hints. As Chrysler reps let slip last year, the 200C is likely to come to light with a gasoline engine first, should it make production - probably the new Pentastar V-6. Moreover, the current Sebring midsize sedan is in desperate need of an overhaul or replacement, and while Chrysler recently announced that a refresh is on the way (along with news of the Sterling Heights plant that produces the car ramping up shifts), we still can't help but feel a full Sebring replacement is inevitable in the not-too-distant future. Could the new 200C be part of the Sterling Heights plant's plan? We wouldn't doubt it completely.

Let us know what you think of the Chrysler 200C renderings in the comments below. Do you think Chrysler needs to replace the Sebring with the 200C ASAP, or should the Sebring be allowed to linger on for a few more years?