2004 Chrysler Sebring: Road Test

Archived Review

2004 Chrysler Sebring 

Select a Trim ▼

  • MSRP: $19,175 -$30,845
  • Invoice: $17,823 -$28,456

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 2004 Chrysler Sebring includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Chrysler Sebring from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Chrysler Sebring, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Chrysler Sebring help you decide if a 2004 Chrysler Sebring is right for you.

Advertisement

ACCELERATION

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
5 6 5 5.2

V6 Sebrings have adequate power for most needs. Four-cylinder models are slower and noisier than the V6s. Autostick helps make the most of available power.

FUEL ECONOMY

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
6 6 5 5.3

Test manual-transmission 3.0 V6 coupe averaged 23.3 mpg. Test V6 sedans averaged 18.3-25.2 mpg, a test LXi convertible 18.5. All models use regular fuel.

RIDE QUALITY

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. 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 Limited coupe with its 17-inch wheels. Sedans and convertibles suffer some float over dips and swells.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
6 7 6 6.1

Quite confident in all models. Coupes slightly more nimble than sedans and convertibles. Braking is sure, with good pedal feel. All models tested had ABS.

QUIETNESS

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
5 5 4 5.8

Less refined than top import rivals, but not inordinately loud. Mechanical noise, road roar, and wind rush reasonably hushed.

CONTROLS

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
7 6 7 6.4

Clear and readable. Best in sedan and convertible, but all have a contemporary layout. Quality of materials competitive with most rivals.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
6 4 5 6

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

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
4 2 3 4.5

Head room is a bit snug, but leg and foot room is ample. Coupe's cushion is low and its seatback is too reclined. Unlike most of its breed, the convertible holds adults comfortably.

CARGO ROOM

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
5 5 2 4.6

Average for cars this size, 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

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
5 3 5 6

Sebrings lack the polish of some import-brand rivals, but prices are competitive and sedans and convertibles have reasonably comfortable interiors. All in all, the lure here is the roomy, stylish ragtop.

Total Score

Base sdn, V6 Limited cpe, V6 man. Limited conv Class Average
55 49 48 56.1

Total Score: 51

Scores for all Midsize Cars

Low Score
44
Average Score
56
High Score
72

Car Buying Resources

Trade-in Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth.

Trade-in Calculator

Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer.

Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. The first...

Get a CARFAX report

What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn Things

Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance

Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers.

Sell Your Car

Search
Local Listings


to

submit

Vehicle
History Report

CARFAX

FREE CARFAX Record Check

Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.

Go
Advertisement
Advertisement