2007 Chrysler Sebring Review

PROS
Passenger and cargo room, Lots of class-unique features, distinctive styling

CONSUnderpowered standard 4-cylinder enigne, Smallish trunk

Same Name, New Image
For years, the Sebring nameplate has called to mind images of a conservative midsize convertible--a perfect car for cruising the Florida sun, but hardly something to aspire to. Chrysler hopes to change that with the introduction of an all-new Sebring sedan for 2007.

The new sedan-only Sebring sports completely new styling, three engine choices, and a host of newly available features. The '07 is four inches taller than the model it replaces, but about the same length and width. It competes against other mainstream midsize cars like the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima, and Toyota Camry.

Front-seat side-impact and side-curtain airbags are standard on all models. Also standard are anti-lock brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system. Traction control and stability control are optional. Newly available features include a navigation system, wireless cell-phone link, heated and cooled front-seat cupholders, remote starting, and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

Also available is MyGIG--an information, entertainment, and safety navigation audio system. It features a 6.5-inch display screen, voice activation, 20-gigabyte hard drive, and a USB connector. MyGIG is designed to be a multi-media information system for your car.

Get up and Go
The 4-cylinder engine has adequate pep in around town driving. However, add a few people, and response becomes less than confidence inspiring. On the highway, passing power is limited and the engine feels labored. All-in-all the 4-cylinder is fine for most driving, but those wanting more power should step up to one of the V6 engines.

Sebring's EPA numbers of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway match those of other midsize sedans, but in an even mix of city and highway driving, this test Sebring averaged just 21 mpg. That number is far short of its city rating of 24 and indicative of the fuel-economy shortcomings of the 4-speed automatic.

On the Road
The structure of the new Sebring feels more solid then the previous model. A ride-biased suspension offers a fair amount of impact absorption without being overly "floaty." There's still some bobbing over bumps at high speeds, but the new Sebring feels more buttoned down and composed over rough roads than before.

Handling is typical for a midsize sedan. There's a fair amount of body lean in fast turns and ample nosedive in hard stops. Still, the tires grip well and the suspension reacts quickly to fast lane changes. The steering has a weighty feel, which at times grows artificial. Brakes are strong and the pedal is easy to modulate.

Behind the Wheel The fabrics, materials and design of Sebring's interior are entirely new. Gauges are still black on white, but they are much more legible than before. Radio and climate controls are a bit of a stretch, but at least they are large and well marked.

Cabin materials are a cut above what you'd expect in your traditional midsize sedan and the décor befits a vehicle that would cost thousands more. Fit and finish were just average on this pre-production model but are sure to improve once the assembly line gets up to speed.

Front seat head and leg room are quite good, almost luxury-car like. Front seats are traditional American soft, but slightly more supportive than expected in fast cornering. Seats are also slightly higher than in most competitors, affording a commanding view of the road--when compared to other midsize cars.

Rear-seat room is less accommodating than the front with just adequate leg and head room. Cushions are comfortable and large doors make it easy to get in and out.

Sebring's short deck styling dictates a slightly smaller trunk than most competitors. The trunk lid, while suspended by space-saving compact hinges is also quite small and precludes loading large items. Rear seat backs are split 60/40 and fold flat. Interior storage is adequate for the class.

Bottom Line Chrysler knew the new Sebring would have to be a little different to stand out amongst a sea of midsize sedans. While the car isn't perfect, at least it had a personality--which is more than many competitors can say. The interior is distinctive and stylish, ride is comfortable, and its road manners are subdued.

With a base price of just $19,000 the Sebring is quite affordable as well. If you're willing to put up with the 4-cylinder's lack of power and make judicious use of the options list, it's easy to get a nicely equipped Sebring for under $22,000. At that price, the car is very competitive and attractive.