Looking for an elegant and stylish sedan that won't break the bank? Chrysler's Sebring sedan has come out to play in the crowded mid-size sedan segment and it looks like a serious contender. According to Chrysler, they've given the Chrysler Sebring sedan a new appearance that is consistent with the Chrysler Pacifica and Crossfire. One thing's for sure, Sebring's nose looks a lot like its siblings, and nothing like others in this segment. With a large grille and sweeping aerodynamic headlamp assemblies, Sebring appears to be speaking to, no, more like snarling at its competitors. Chrysler will offer three versions of its Sebring sedan for 2004: Chrysler Sebring sedan, Chrysler Sebring sedan Touring and Chrysler Sebring sedan Limited. For 2004, Chrysler has decided to drop the LX and LXi trim levels. The LX model is now simply known as the Sebring. The LXi is now known as the Touring model, and an all-new Limited model tops the line. Consistent with the new appearance of the
2004 Chrysler Sebring Convertible, the 2004 Chrysler Sebring sedan has a restyled fascia with scalloped headlamps and grille. In addition, the Sebring sedan offers new 16-inch painted aluminum wheels on the base and Touring models, and new chrome-clad aluminum wheels on the Limited model. A 150-horsepower 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine powers the Sebring sedan, while Touring and Limited models are powered by a 200-horsepower V6. My co-tester and I recently spent some time behind the wheel of the Sebring sedan Touring model. We found its V6 to be quiet, smooth and fairly quick. The V6 provides good power even when loaded down with four adults. I wasn't as impressed with our Sebring's transmission, though. While stuck in rush hour traffic on LaGrange Road near the Orland Mall (always a favorite South Side traffic corridor around the holidays), the transmission held first gear and lurched as I momentarily depressed and released the throttle. Once I was able to maintain some open throttle driving, the transmission did upshift normally. Sebring Touring and Limited models feature a touring suspension system with front and rear stabilizers. Designed to offer a more precise feel of the road, the touring suspension offers a comfortable, confident ride. And to make commutes less stressful this winter, Sebring now offers a low-speed traction control system on vehicles with antilock brakes. As part of the Protection Group ($995), traction control and ABS are also grouped with side-impact airbags. The 2004 Chrysler Sebring sedan also offers new interior amenities, including an available electrochromic rearview mirror and steering wheel radio controls. Sebring's seats are comfortable and supportive, even for tall testers. Controls are well-placed and easy to access. The rear seat is roomier than most in this class. Our Sebring Touring model featured a long list of amenities. Options in our tester did raise the modest base price of around $20,000 to about $24,000. But keep in mind, our tester included a full-size spare ($250), upgraded radio with cassette and CD ($100), 8-way power driver's seat ($380), power sunroof ($695), smoker's group ($30), Travel Convenience Group ($355), Cold Weather Group ($40), and Protection Group ($995).
2004 Chrysler Sebring sedan Touring
Engine: 2.7-liter (200 hp) V6
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Drive Type: FWD
Fuel Economy: 21 city/28 highway
Base Price: $20,575
As Tested: $24,045 (includes $625 for destination)
Website: www.chrysler.com