Although the U.S.-only-Stratus is the 'athlete' of the family, a week spent behind the wheel of the Sebring has made one thing quite clear. This sleek new coupe is not just another pretty face - it's got legs too. Power is immediate, igniting the front wheels on takeoff. With a soul-stirring exhaust note, the 200-hp V6 zips the coupe to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7 seconds - that's excellent performance for a luxury coupe. A 2.4-litre 4-cylinder unit is also available, but don't expect V6 performance. Its 142-hp should be adequate for less enthusiastic drivers nonetheless. The V6 Sebring's athletic performance is due as much to the robust power output of the engine, as to the cars relatively light 1444 kg (3183 lb) curb weight (LXi). The 5-speed manual, standard with LXi trim, adds to the performance quotient, offering import smooth shifting with a nicely weighted clutch. A 4-speed automatic transmission is also available, with Chrysler's AutoStick 'manumatic' on the LXi.
On the road to Whistler, the Sebring Coupe doesn't disappoint. Its fully independent suspension front and rear, with struts, coil springs and an anti-roll bar up front and multilink system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar in the rear, eats up tight corners with little effort. Body lean shows up only under extremely aggressive maneuvers, due mostly to its luxury ride bias. For most people, Chrysler's decision to swap sports car handling for a more comfortable ride is appreciated. Either way, the end result is a capable performer, making me wonder just how much better the 'sport-tuned' Stratus is.
On the road to Whistler, the Sebring Coupe doesn't disappoint. Its fully independent suspension front and rear, with struts, coil springs and an anti-roll bar up front and multilink system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar in the rear, eats up tight corners with little effort. Body lean shows up only under extremely aggressive maneuvers, due mostly to its luxury ride bias. For most people, Chrysler's decision to swap sports car handling for a more comfortable ride is appreciated. Either way, the end result is a capable performer, making me wonder just how much better the 'sport-tuned' Stratus is.