Sebring Hardtop Convertible
The Folding Metal Roof Means It's a Superior Convertible
American vehicles are known worldwide for uncommonly long product cycles. Chrysler's Sebring, however, is an exception at less than 5 years. The all-new Sebring “hardtop convertible” is an inch or 2 larger in most dimensions and interior headroom has grown exponentially. At $34,370 base it’s relatively inexpensive.
Quality Overhead
People buy “hardtop convertibles” primarily for cruising but secondarily for increased practicality. Air leakage is minimal, the folding metal roof never rots and needs replacement, interior noise is greatly reduced and in theory body stiffness is enhanced. Except for rigidity the Sebring shines. While not a problem you’ll definitely notice cowl and body judder. Retracting or extending the folding hardtop takes just 30 seconds, a competitive figure. A close examination showed the unit is well built with few gaps.
A Well Equipped Interior with Numerous Features
Inside the front-drive Sebring boasts height-adjustable, power operated cloth front buckets. The split/folding rear bench is adult usable with the roof up but it’s best to think of Chrysler’s newest baby as a 2-seater. The trunk is small – it varies with the folding top’s position - but offers low liftover height. The spare is a "donut".
Looking around from the driver’s seat you'll discover an adequate number of analog gauges. Control "feel" is dismal but variable assist rack and pinion tilt steering, power 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, front and side airbags, optional Traction Control with a Stability Program ($425), adequate air conditioning and heating, electric locks, a burglar alarm, cruise control, a tire pressure warning system, power points, a center storage console, decent cupholders, keyfob entry and much more are standard. Unfortunately the “sport” steering wheel is rock hard; up front the elbow and arm rest positions either lack padding entirely or don’t have enough. Interior trim quality also isn’t high on Chrysler’s list.
Handling and Ride
Turning to this porky 3,959 pound vehicle's handling and ride, you'll find it merely adequate. It offers a decent balance between the two dueling parameters, but neither is particularly noteworthy. The tires, mud and snow radials, are adequate, barely. The turning circle, at 37 feet, is average.
The Powerplant
The Sebring's heart was a 3.5 liter, 235 HP V6 with variable valve timing and 4 valves per cylinder. Observed mileage on unleaded regular was 14 city and 23 highway (EPA 16/26). Acceleration, as measured during the week-long test period with a Belkin accelerometer, averaged 8.6 seconds. This figure was recorded using the standard 6-speed automatic transmission. It shifted flawlessly but sometimes seemed reluctant to “kick down.”
The Sound System and Quality Control
The sound system consisted of a standard AM/FM/MP3/CD/DVD Sirius Satellite unit. Audiophiles will want to visit an aftermarket supplier.
Turning to quality control, you'll find it better than average. Note Chrysler’s warranty is also among the industries’ best.
Overall the Sebring hardtop convertible is much better than its ancestors. Its standard equipment level is also much higher than its import rivals. Visit a dealer for a test drive.
