2002 Chrysler Sebring: Road Test

Archived Review

2002 Chrysler Sebring 

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  • MSRP: $18,005 -$29,300
  • Invoice: $16,770 -$27,065

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Our road test for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring includes a full evaluation of the 2002 Chrysler Sebring from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2002 Chrysler Sebring help you decide if a 2002 Chrysler Sebring is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
5 6 5 5

V6 Sebrings have adequate power for most needs, though upscale midsize rivals are generally faster. Four-cylinder models are slower and noisier than the sixes. AutoStick lends a useful feature to V6 coupes and the Limited convertible. We have not tested the new GTC convertible.

FUEL ECONOMY

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
5 6 5 5.3

Test manual-transmission 3.0 V6 coupe averaged 23.3 mpg. Equipped with the 2.7 V6 and automatic transmission, a test sedan averaged 18.3 mpg, a test LXi convertible 18.5. All models use regular fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
6 5 6 6.2

All Sebrings comfortably absorb most bumps. Coupes ride much better than their shorter-wheelbase Eclipse cousins, but still don't filter out bad pavement as well as Sebring sedans and convertibles, especially the LXi coupe with its 17-inch wheels.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
6 7 6 5.8

Larger tires give uplevel models more confident moves than base models, and coupes are slightly more nimble than sedans. Convertibles are stable, secure, too. Braking is sure, with good pedal modulation. All models tested had ABS.

QUIETNESS

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
5 5 4 5.4

Less-refined than some rivals, but not inordinately loud. There's little thunking over expansion joints, and wind noise is reasonably well-managed.

CONTROLS

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
6 4 6 6.3

Clear and readable. Best in sedan and convertible; coupe flawed by unnecessary design flourishes and by a low-placed climate system. Only driver blind spots are to the rear quarters in convertibles, but larger outside mirrors would aid lane changes. Quality of materials in sedan and convertible is competitive with most rivals. Coupes don't feel upscale by any measure.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
5 4 5 5.7

Roomy, but taller passengers may want more head room in the coupe. Low roofline hampers entry/exit in coupe and top-up in the convertible.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
4 2 3 4.3

Head room is a bit snug, but leg and foot room is ample. Coupe's cushion is low and its seatback is too reclined. Three adults can fit in the sedan's back seat with a little squeezing. Unlike most of its breed, the convertible holds two adults comfortably.

CARGO ROOM

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
5 5 2 4.6

Average for the class, though few convertibles offer more. Coupe's trunklid hinges dip into luggage bay. Interior storage is adequate in coupe. Sedans have a small center console and lack rear-door map pockets.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
6 3 6 6

Though Sebrings lack the polish of some import-brand rivals, prices are competitive. Sedans and convertibles have reasonably comfortable interiors, and the sedans qualify as relatively sporty family cars. All in all, though, the gem here is the roomy, stylish ragtop.

Total Score

LX sdn, V6 LXi cpe, V6 auto. Limited conv Class Average
53 47 48 54.6

Total Score: 49

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
40
Average Score
54
High Score
73

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