2008 Chrysler Sebring

Styles

Overview

Chrysler's Sebring comes in three different trim levels for 2008, with a different engine offered on each. The base LX convertible and sedan get a 173-horsepower, 2.4L four-cylinder "World Engine." Mid-range Touring models step up to a 2.7L V6 that's Flex Fuel capable and makes 186 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Top-of-the-range Limited models get a 235-horsepower, 3.5L V6 engine. The 2.4L and 2.7L engines are paired with a four-speed automatic transmission while a six-speed automatic comes with the 3.5L and AutoStick manual selection.

With the 2.4L and 2.7L engines, fuel economy is respectable; the 2.4 is rated at 21 city, 30 highway and the 2.7L brings ratings of 19 city, 27 highway. The LX convertible is rated at 20 city, 29 highway.

The Sebring Limited sedan is now available as an all-wheel-drive (AWD) model; the system sends power mainly to the front wheels, but when extra traction is needed it routes power to the rear through an electronically controlled coupling (ECC). The system is also configured to aid stability and make handling more balanced on curvy roads; above 25 mph it sends more torque to the rear wheels around corners.

Sebring sedans come with fold-flat, 60/40-split back seats that fold flat to expand cargo space, and the front passenger seat can be folded forward to create a flat, table-like surface. All Sebring models now have a two-tone interior theme in Pastel Slate Gray or Pastel Pebble Beige; Limited models get Tortoise Shell, Satin Silver, Alloy Silver, and Chrome accents and finishes.

The convertible now has enough trunk space to accommodate two large golf bags even when the top is retracted. Three different tops are offered on the convertible, including vinyl or cloth soft tops and a retractable hard top. They include a standard hard tonneau cover with automatic latching top. Front seat belts are integrated into the seats for easier entry to the back seat, which is large enough to accommodate two adults. The convertible's top and windows can be operated through a button on the key fob.

Anti-lock brakes are standard, along with side-curtain air bags and seat-mounted thorax-protecting side air bags on sedans; convertibles get seat-mounted supplemental side bags.

The Sebring can be equipped with features to rival many luxury cars; examples of what's available include a heated/cooled cup holder, LED interior lighting, heated leather seats, and on sedans, a DVD rear-seat entertainment system, remote start, navigation, and the MyGig multimedia and entertainment system.

Value

The 2008 Chrysler Sebring sedan combines a low entry price with styling that's somewhat more elegant than most vehicles in its class, along with many features not usually found in its price range. The new Limited AWD model also offers an interesting combination of all-weather capability and sporty handling. As for the convertible, with vinyl, cloth, or retractable hard tops available, it has more top options than any other open-air model. It also has one of the most spacious back seats for legroom, among convertibles, and with its completely redesigned interior it has a more sophisticated look than before.