2012 Chrysler 200 S Convertible (Courtesy of Chrysler Media Department)

There are two key words that are synonymous with this keen convertible. Ride and handling. Chrysler engineers got busy and made a vehicle that demonstrates a performance of excellence.

MacPherson struts sit up front to provide optimum balance of ride and noise isolation. These struts are supported by multilink coils in the back. Large diameter front and rear swaybars stiffen body mounts and soft ride rate, contributing to a smooth and controlled ride.

These drivetrain and suspension enhancements assist in the reduction of noise vibration and stiffness of drive. Plus, Chrysler has a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The 18-inch x 7.0-inch aluminum polished/painted S wheels provide a great balance and a quick response.

The two engines available for the 200 line-up are either the 2.4L four-cylinder engine or the 3.6L Penstar V-6 engine. My 200 S had the V-6 and a 6-speed automatic transmission with standard auto stick shifter that allows clutchless manual or automatic gear selection for the best driving experience.

EPA fuel economy estimate is 19 mpg in the city and 29 highway mpg. However, I must admit that I got an average of only 15 mpg during my week of driving.

The base price was $32,070, but optional equipment like the advanced media center, GPS navigation, Tungsten metal top, and one-year Sirius XM traffic service added an additional $3,000 to the price.

The 200 S convertible had the retractable steel hard top. When the top is down and stored, the trunk capacity is still more than enough to easily fit two golf bags or enough fishing gear for several anglers.

A classic power soft cloth top is also available. It folds easily into the trunk, making it simple to enjoy the open air experience. Both features maintain a seamless look when lowered, thanks to a power hard tonneau cover. It takes about 30 seconds to raise or retract, while an automatic hard cover conceals the storage area when the top is down.

The interior of the 200 (Courtesy of NetCarShow.com)

Inside, the 200 S commands attention. Power doors and windows, remote start, rear window defroster, and air with automatic temperature are all easy to reach from the heated leather bucket seats with suede inserts and 6-way position.

When you get out of the 200 S and look back, you can’t help but notice all the things people noticed when you drove up and parked.

A winged grille and glimmering badges, clutching a sculpted front and rear fascias, and dual bright exhaust tips give an additional shot of brightness. The standard door handles and power heated mirrors add to the other pristine features of the 200 S.

LED light piping accents the headlamps leaving the viewer with a sense of great appearance and illumination. Even the cup holders are surrounded in beautiful ambient light.

Should you continue to glance, moving toward the rear, you will surely notice the LED tail lamps and center-mounted stop lamps.

Yep, the car looks great from any angle or view.

However, the navigation system proved a challenge. Try as I might, I simply couldn’t master the system. It was just too sophisticated and difficult for a mere plebian like me to understand.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.