2001-2006 Chrysler Sebring: Road Test

Each new V6 engine used in Sebrings (and their Stratus counterparts) is a clear step forward in both power and refinement. The Chrysler-made 2.7-liter in sedans and convertibles feels smoother than the coupe's Mitsubishi 3.0. Though slower than domestic and import rivals with larger V6s, any six-cylinder Sebring offers acceleration that's easily adequate for most needs. Four-cylinder owners are still relegated to the slow and noisy lane, even though both 2.4-liters are an improvement over their predecessors. Regardless of engine, automatic transmission performance is improved, with smoother upshifts and fairly prompt downshifts. Optional Autostick is a welcome addition to coupe models, improving throttle response somewhat. As for economy, a manual-shift V6 Sebring coupe averaged 23.3 mpg, a V6 sedan with automatic managed 18.3 mpg, and an LXi convertible averaged 18.5 mpg. Uplevel models handle noticeably better than base cars, with little penalty in ride quality. All feel competent on twisty roads, with better grip and less body lean than a Camry. Sebring coupes are slightly more nimble than the sedans, but their suspensions don't filter out bad pavement as well. Sedans and convertibles suffer some floatiness over dips and swells. The Sebring convertible feels stable and solid, despite some cowl shake and flex on undulating pavement. Steering feedback is good, though we'd prefer less around-town power assistance on the four-cylinder versions. Stopping power with ABS is a strong point, feeling sure and stable, with good pedal modulation. Overall refinement falls short of Japanese-brand rivals, but noise levels are fairly quiet and drivetrain vibration is greatly reduced from the previous generation. Suppression of wind noise is admirable. Sebring sedans have uncommonly roomy interiors for their exterior size, despite a slight loss of rear head clearance compared to prior models. Convertible front seating is spacious, while in the coupes, taller front-seat occupants might want a touch more head room. With only a little squeezing, three adults can fit in the sedan's back seat. Leg and foot room are generous, but head space is a bit snug. The convertible has rear seating for two adults, and it's surprisingly comfortable. Coupes have three rear seat belts, but even two grown-ups will feel crowded, and the seat cushion is uncomfortably low and seatbacks are overly reclined. Entry/exit to the back seat isn't so easy, either. Sedan and convertible gauges are clear and readable. Coupe instruments until 2003 mirror the gimmicky design in Mitsubishi two-doors. Coupe drivers sit low to the floor, whereas the sedan and convertible have airy-feeling cockpits. Convertibles suffer blind spots at the rear quarters. Getting in or out of sedans is easy, but a low roofline hampers entry/exit to coupe front seats, and limits head room for taller folks. In addition, interference from the front seatbelts worsens the already cumbersome entry into the back. Convertibles mount their front shoulder belts to the seats, so they don't impair rear access. Cargo space is average for the class (good for a convertible), though coupe trunklid hinges dip into the luggage bay.

Value for the Money
Despite improvements in driveline smoothness and overall refinement, the new Sebring sedans and coupes lack the polished feel of import-brand rivals. Each fulfills its purpose, and sedans are sporty-feeling family cars. While all three body styles offer competitive value, the real prize is the Sebring convertible, which is roomier than rivals and quite the pleasant cruiser.