Top Used Chrysler Models

Chrysler was first organized as the Chrysler Corporation in 1925. From 1998 to 2007, Chrysler and its subsidiaries were part of the German based DaimlerChrysler AG.  In 2007, DaimlerChrysler announced the sale of 80.1% of Chrysler Group to American private equity firm Cerberus Capital Management, L.P., although Daimler continued to hold a 19.9% stake. This was when the company took on the name, Chrysler LLC.  Chrysler Group, LLC, is headquartered in the Detroit suburb of Auburn Hills, Michigan. Although Chrysler LLC filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in April of 2009, the company has continued on with a partnership with Italian automaker Fiat. Chrysler intends to continue new drive concepts through ENVI, an in-house organization formed to focus on electric-drive vehicles and related technologies. Chrysler models under the ENVI division include the Chrysler 200c and the Chrysler Town & Country EV. Here are the top preowned models under the Chrysler name.

Used Chrysler Sebring

 As the Chrysler Sebring began to lag behind competitors, a redesigned model was rolled out in 2007; this used Sebring is larger, more powerful and more feature-filled than its predecessor. A long list of innovative, if unnecessary, options include a 20-gigabyte hard drive for media storage, a voice memo recorder and a heated and cooled cupholder. For power, the Sebring gets a base 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with an estimated 172 horsepower and 165 pounds-feet of torque.  Optional in the base model and standard on the Sebring Touring and Limited is a 2.7-liter V-6. It makes an estimated 190 hp and 190 pounds-feet of torque, and it can run on regular or ethanol-based E85 fuel. The Sebring Limited offers an optional 3.5-liter V-6 that generates an estimated 235 hp and 232 pounds-feet of torque. The Sebring cabin, after the 2007 redesign, is as large as competitors.  Its trunk is somewhat small, but a fold flat front passenger seat accommodates longer cargo. The 2007 Sebring was designed to be sleek and elegant, as opposed t the 300s more macho presence.

Used Chrysler 300

In its 1999 to 2004 iteration, the Chrysler 300M was a front-wheel-drive sedan with V-6 power. A completely different 300 sedan joined Chrysler's lineup for 2005, with rear-wheel drive. To counteract concerns that the rear-drive 300 won't handle properly on snow and ice, Chrysler offers an all-wheel-drive version of the 300 as well as an electronic stability system in upper-end models. Used 300 models are powered by a 2.7-liter V-6 produces 190 horsepower in the base sedan; it teams with a four-speed automatic transmission. Other models get a 250-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 and a five-speed automatic. Though the 300 is shorter overall than the old 300M, it's larger inside. The seating position is 2.5 inches higher, and a four-gauge instrument cluster with light silver faces and chrome trim rings has watch-face styling. The 300 is for those who are looking for a bold and imposing road presence.  Antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system are included on all but the base sedan. Front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are optional.

Used Chrysler PT Cruiser

First introduced in 2000, the PT Cruiser is a vehicle with unique, retro presence, combined with modern day technologies. Chrysler says the front-wheel-drive PT Cruiser blends the elements of a sedan, wagon, sport utility vehicle and minivan. The base 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 150 horsepower. Two turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinders are offered, producing either 180 hp or 230 hp. The 180-hp engine comes only with a four-speed automatic transmission, but the other engines can mate with either the automatic or a five-speed manual. The automatic in the 230-hp PT Cruiser GT incorporates AutoStick manual gear selection. Although the vehicle unique appearanve draws consumers, it the cabin that really shines; it is versatile, roomy, and suitable for a small family. Two bucket seats are installed up front and a 65/35-split, folding rear bench holds three. Outboard passengers have adequate space, but the center rear position is cramped. The exterior design makes it look like the PT Cruiser is leaning forward. Used PT Cruiser models vaguely resemble a panel truck of the 1930s, overlaid with street-rod styling from the 1950s. Bulging fenders, fender-mounted headlights and taillights, and a tall, wide eggcrate grille help give the PT Cruiser its unique look. The PT Cruiser is also available as a convertible.

Used Chrysler Pacifica

 The Pacifica debuted in 2004 as a 'sport tourer' (an early name for a crossover).  The Pacifica, in fact, was one of the original crossovers, offering consumers a model with both SUV styling and minivan versatility. Wagon-like architecture, available all-wheel drive and seating for up to six means the Pacifica competes with other family-friendly vehicles.   The base Pacifica holds a 3.8-liter V-6 with a four-speed automatic transmission; it generates 205 horsepower and 235 pounds-feet of torque. All other models have a 4.0-liter V-6 with 255 hp and 265 pounds-feet of torque that drives a six-speed automatic transmission. All Pacificas incorporate Chrysler's AutoStick, which allows drivers to manually select their own gears. Used Pacifica models do best on the highway, with minivan like driving. Safety features include antilock brakes, five airbags - including side curtain airbags and a driver's inflatable knee blocker - and an electronic stability system included on all trim levels.

Used Chrysler Town & Country

The Town & Country minivan was introduced by Chrysler in 2000.  Along with its cousin Dodge Grand Caravan, the Town & Country offers a unique seating versatility. Stow 'n Go seats fold flat into the floor for the second and third rows; the seats can be folded down with one hand in as little as 30 seconds. Other innovative features include an available media player that plays CDs, MP3s and DVDs. Standard-length models and the long-wheelbase LX version use a 180-horsepower, 3.3-liter V-6. Touring and Limited long-wheelbase models get a 3.8-liter V-6 that generates 205 hp and 240 pounds-feet of torque. All used Town & Country minivans use a four-speed automatic transmission. Despite increased competition, these models still serve as benchmarks. Performance is energetic with the 3.8-liter engine, and the Town & Country's light steering is appropriate.