and Garmin navigation systems with the expected Bluetooth and voice-command technologies. While you do need to take your eyes off the road to change stations manually and the like, the amazingly accurate voice command removes most of the distractions. Even making calls is as simple as telling the car to "Call Joe at Home." UConnect politely asks if it has the right information before making the call.

Overall, the loaded Chrysler 200 Limited wasn't lacking for much in the way of amenities--although certain 10-year-olds did ask whether the 6.5-inch screen showed the back-up camera, which is not offered on the 200.

All the touchy-feely-talkie features are only good if the car drives well. Who's going to listen to the Boneyard on SiriusXM radio when they can't stand driving? And while the 200 is an improvement over the Sebring, it's still not world class.

Tuning of the suspension has left the Chrysler 200 with a solid and sometimes harsh ride, as many imperfections in the road are translated into significant bumps in the passenger compartment.

It's quite noticeable on the highway--something to keep in mind on longer road trips. Handling, however, is fun if not sporty on back roads.

While the new Pentastar 3.6L V6 is optional, the test car was equipped with the 2.4L GEMA four-cylinder engine. At 173 horsepower, the engine is not weak but it can get a bit noisy. Engine noise is intrusive at about 3,000 r.p.m., but the optional six-speed automatic transaxle keeps the revs down unless the engine's power is in high demand.

And it is that six-speed that helps keep fuel economy up. My test vehicle got about 26 m.p.g. in mixed driving. Fuel economy like this allows the Chrysler 200 to travel more than 430 miles between fill ups.

(See the sidebar on the next page for more on the 2011 Chrysler 200 Limited's suitability for road trips, including feedback from the trip we took with the kids to the famous Daniel Boone Homestead.)

Chrysler and Fiat have created a good car from what was a barely passable car. In no way will the Chrysler 200 be the turnaround hit that the automaker needs. It is a proper placeholder until the next generation comes along, something that could not be said about the Sebring.

For a company that's been "to Hell and back," the new 200 is hardly Heaven--but it's far better than Purgatory. Compared to the hellish Sebring, this is truly a compliment.

From 18th-century Daniel Boone to 21st-century Eminem, America's been through quite a bit, just like Chrysler. The Pennsylvania-born explorer laid the groundwork for our country, while the Detroit rapper spreads modern American music past our borders. The 2011 Chrysler 200 won't be the global breakthrough that is Eminem, but it may act more like Daniel Boone and pave the way for future generations of the American brand to grow.

VITAL STATISTICS

Wheelbase: 108.9 inches
Length: 191.7 inches
Width: 72.5 inches
Height: 58.4 inches
Curb weight: 3,525 pounds
Engine: I-4, 2.4-liter DOHC naturally aspirated
Horsepower: 173 @ 6,000 r.p.m.
Torque: 166 lb.-ft. @ 4,400 r.p.m.
EPA estimated m.p.g. city/highway: 20/31
Base price: $23,745
As-tested price: $26,030 including $750 destination
Also consider: Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Nissan Altima, Toyota Camry

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