If you order a 2.7-L V6 equipped 2004 Sebring without anti-lock brakes (ABS) you'll also get rear brake drums instead of 4-wheel discs. Order ABS and rear discs become standard. Also, traction control is now available when ABS is ordered.
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| Pushing toward premium class status, the Sebring LXi is the most European of domestic sedans. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
All in all the Sebring LXi is the most European of domestic sedans, with much of the credit due to the North American team that engineered the car's fundamentals well before Daimler came on board. Still, as I mentioned earlier, Chrysler's product is only improving due to its influence by the German luxury automaker, pushing the domestic brand higher and higher toward premium class status.
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| The Sebring can compete with quality levels for the most part on par, and in some cases exceeding its domestic and Asian competitors. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
And that seems to be where Chrysler is going as a brand, not to directly compete with Mercedes-Benz, but definitely to take on the likes of Lincoln and maybe even Cadillac. On that note can the Sebring LXi be held to the same high standard as the new Pacifica and Crossfire? In some ways yes, as in its high level of luxury features, sophisticated drivetrain and adept handling. But in other ways no, as its plastics quality, domestic level switchgear and misaligned exterior panel fit won't do much to lure import buyers.
But to be fair, what is essentially a three year old model was never developed with these lofty goals in mind. The Crossfire, Pacifica, and future 300 series car recently previewed as the 300C concept in New York have been, and it shows. Instead the Sebring can compete with quality levels for the most part on par, and in some cases exceeding its domestic and Asian competitors.
