2001 Chrysler Sebring Convertible

In addition to being a leader in interior space, engineers used supercomputers to optimize the body and increase structural rigidity. The higher level of stiffness makes Sebring even more fun to drive with a more solid feel. The steering has been retuned with new stiffer front suspension, rebound springs added to the shock absorbers for improved control, and revised sway bar isolators to enhance performance. The convertible is not intended to be a sports car, but all this adds up to agility, confidence and comfort.

Since their 1924 origin, Chrysler has been a leader in styling. While this model has completely new sheet metal, it keeps the well-conceived layout of its predecessor. The grille is a prominent feature with an egg crate influence from the Italian designs of the fifties. Large robust road lights are not just for looks, but have new technology for better night illumination. Little detail lines, creases, edges and bulges draw the eyes, and from every angle it is pleasing and clean. The view from the rear minimizes the Sebring's size. The car has lines that sweep up and back, and results in a swoopy stance and a large trunk. A deep trunk lid allows lower lift in height for easier access.

Despite the similar design themes, the convertible doesn't share any body panels with other new Sebring sedans and coupes.

The interior has new materials and features with highlight colors keeping it from looking bland. The instrument panel has been completely redesigned with elegant details but putting the climate controls above the radio is a step backwards. For nighttime convenience there are puddle lamps in doorframe.

Customers can't see under the skin of the new Chrysler Sebring Convertible but they will notice more than the new additional power and stiffer body structure. A new 2.7-liter DOHC 24-valve SMPI V6 engine delivers 32 more horsepower and 22 more lb.-ft. of torque than its predecessor yet is nearly 10 percent more fuel-efficient. Abundant performance matches its world-class design. For added fun and driver interaction, the optional (but oft overlooked) AutoStick(r) transaxle provides the control of a manual transmission with the convenience of an automatic.

The engineers looked carefully at real world accident data and addressed all the key safety concerns. They paid special attention to offset frontal crash tests, as well as reinforcing the sills for side impact in addition to gussets and three beams in the doors. They are in the lead dealing with rear impact protection which is just now coming to increased attention from regulators and insurance agencies This all required an additional 47 lb. in structure, but they offset that with aluminum components in the suspension and drivetrain, especially the engine.

Other new features include multi-stage front air bags, repositioned higher head restraints, pyrotechnic seat belt pretensioners and an internal emergency trunk release. A new larger four-wheel disc brake system is standard on all models, while "ABS Plus"-a new, sophisticated software extension that senses braking in turns and controls yaw in full and partial situations, as well as with varying road-texture surfaces-is also available.

Engineers also focused on the most important part of any convertible-the top. They added a four-window-down system that operates in conjunction with the top. Customers need only hold one button for the top and all windows to go down. There is a drip rail in the top so water doesn't get inside when the window is down. The windows drop an inch to help the top seal, just like Mercedes and BMWs. A semi hard boot folds and fits in the trunk, but can be left in the garage and only used on special occasions - they have more compact boot under development.

The top is designed with a full cloth headliner crafted from state-of-the-art materials for providing sound and climate insulation. Sebring Convertible also features a solid glass back window and electric rear window defroster.

The first-generation Sebring Convertible was built in Toluca, Mexico while the new one comes from the Sterling Heights (Mich.) Assembly Plant, which also builds the all-new 2001 Chrysler Sebring sedan.