2003 Chrysler Sebring: Road Test
Archived Review
2003 Chrysler Sebring ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $18,330 -$29,765
- Invoice: $17,062 -$27,484
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Chrysler Sebring
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2003 Chrysler Sebring includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Chrysler Sebring from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Chrysler Sebring, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Chrysler Sebring help you decide if a 2003 Chrysler Sebring is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.2 |
V6 Sebrings have adequate power for most needs. Four-cylinder models are slower and noisier than the sixes. AutoStick lends a useful feature to V6 coupes and the Limited convertible.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 6 | 5 | 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. Test manual GTC averaged 20.4. All models use regular fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
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. Sedans and convertibles suffer some float over dips and swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 7 | 6 | 6 | 6.1 |
Quite confident in all models. Coupes slightly more nimble than sedans. Convertibles stable, secure, too. Braking is sure, with good pedal modulation. All models tested had ABS.
QUIETNESS
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4 | 5.5 |
Less-refined than top import rivals, but not inordinately loud. Mechanical noise, road roar, and wind rush reasonably well-managed.
CONTROLS
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Clear and readable. Best in sedan and convertible, but coupe's '03 redesign rids it of unnecessary design flourishes, leaving a contemporary layout with a higher-mounted climate system. Quality of materials competitive with most rivals; that was untrue of Sebring coupe before this year's revamp.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 5 | 5.9 |
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. Larger outside mirrors would aid lane changes in all models, but only real blind spot is to rear quarters in convertibles with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX sdn, V6 | LXi cpe, V6 auto. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 4.4 |
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. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 2 | 2 | 4.7 |
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. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
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. | GTC conv, man. | Limited conv | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 58 | 50 | 51 | 50 | 56.1 |
Total Score: 52
Scores for all Midsize Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
