Unlike most cars in this category, the Sebring convertible is capable of fitting four full-size adults. Rear guests enjoy decent legroom as well as ample headroom even when the roof is raised. Fortunately the trunk is large enough to store more than just the tonneau cover. As is usually the case with Chrysler products, a variety of large cupholders fill the hydration needs of driver and passengers alike.
While the previous convertible is beautifully styled, it is hardly a driver's car. As experienced in a previous test, acceleration seemed lackluster and it's handling only adequate at best, due to a fair bit of body flex. Generally, its behavior was biased more toward comfort than performance. Fortunately last year's replacement addresses the need for speed while simultaneously enhancing overall refinement and comfort. As Tom Marinelli, Vice President of Chrsyler/Jeep Division Global Brand Center, stated, "Not only does the recently redesigned Sebring Convertible give the Chrysler brand the cachet of an image-leading convertible, but it also delivers the athletic handling, spirited performance, elegant design and premium features that our customers expect from Chrysler."
The most obvious improvement shows under the long front hood, with the addition of a 200-horsepower V6, standard in 2001. For the 2002 model year, a less expensive 150-hp 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder variant brings convertible ownership closer to entry-level shoppers. When redesigning the Sebring, Chrysler engineers opted to build a completely separate chassis rather than merely adapting that which had been created for the sedan. This stiffened its entire structure, allowing product planners to reach their lofty targets for ride compliancy and handling dynamics. The result is the best performing Chrysler convertible to date. Toss the Sebring into a tight corner and you won't experience any body contortions and creaking complaints. It simply points in the desired direction and effortlessly carries out the task at hand. For 2002 a new V6 equipped GTC model receives a sport suspension and 5-speed manual transmission (or 4-speed automatic), upping the Sebring's performance. The new model also includes a rear spoiler, 16-inch painted aluminum wheels and colour-keyed body side moldings. Inside it gets two-tone seats, unique instrument panel inserts replacing the woodgrain, and white-faced instruments.
While the previous convertible is beautifully styled, it is hardly a driver's car. As experienced in a previous test, acceleration seemed lackluster and it's handling only adequate at best, due to a fair bit of body flex. Generally, its behavior was biased more toward comfort than performance. Fortunately last year's replacement addresses the need for speed while simultaneously enhancing overall refinement and comfort. As Tom Marinelli, Vice President of Chrsyler/Jeep Division Global Brand Center, stated, "Not only does the recently redesigned Sebring Convertible give the Chrysler brand the cachet of an image-leading convertible, but it also delivers the athletic handling, spirited performance, elegant design and premium features that our customers expect from Chrysler."
The most obvious improvement shows under the long front hood, with the addition of a 200-horsepower V6, standard in 2001. For the 2002 model year, a less expensive 150-hp 2.4-litre, 4-cylinder variant brings convertible ownership closer to entry-level shoppers. When redesigning the Sebring, Chrysler engineers opted to build a completely separate chassis rather than merely adapting that which had been created for the sedan. This stiffened its entire structure, allowing product planners to reach their lofty targets for ride compliancy and handling dynamics. The result is the best performing Chrysler convertible to date. Toss the Sebring into a tight corner and you won't experience any body contortions and creaking complaints. It simply points in the desired direction and effortlessly carries out the task at hand. For 2002 a new V6 equipped GTC model receives a sport suspension and 5-speed manual transmission (or 4-speed automatic), upping the Sebring's performance. The new model also includes a rear spoiler, 16-inch painted aluminum wheels and colour-keyed body side moldings. Inside it gets two-tone seats, unique instrument panel inserts replacing the woodgrain, and white-faced instruments.