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2002 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Road Test

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Khatir Soltani
2002 Chrysler Sebring Convertible - Canada's Most Popular Drop-Top

As I stood, facing the stage of one of New York's chic dinner-theatres, a parade of singers and dancers preceded the official unveiling of the new Sebring line. First rolled out the sedan, a stunning improvement over the Cirrus it replaced. Next came the coupe - low, sleek and purposeful. Finally, the new convertible took center stage. Right then I knew without a doubt, Chrysler would continue to hold title to the most popular convertible in Canada. The new Sebring convertible is drop dead gorgeous.

Pulling the best styling cues from the elegant Concorde sedan, the new Sebring line unifies the Chrysler family face. A wide, oval egg-crate grille adorned with a hint of chrome trim gives the convertible an upscale appearance. Additional chrome tastefully graces the Sebring's clean fluid curves, ending at one of the most attractive rear end designs currently produced, period.

It's interior accommodations equal the exteriors good looks, with quality of materials and workmanship improving overall. What's more, even the base LX comes replete with creature comforts. Standard power features include locks with remote keyless entry, windows, heated mirrors and trunk release. Air conditioning, tinted glass, tachometer, cruise control, tilt steering and an engine block heater are included at no premium as well. The standard top is vinyl while the LXi and Limited Sebring get one made of cloth. Both receive a glass rear window with defrost, adding to the Sebring's year round functionality. A 6-speaker AM/FM audio system with cassette comes standard, while the LXi and Limited get the Infinity system, plus a 4-disc dash mounted CD player. The Infinity speakers and 4-disc CD are optional on the base car if premium sound is high on your priority list. Strangely the steering wheel and shift lever knob is leather wrapped on both the LXi and Limited versions, but only the Limited receives a leather covered parking brake handle. The Limited version also gets higher-grade leather than the LXi, while both include a six-way power driver's seat.
Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada