Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Limited Convertible. The Photo shows the optional Hard Top convertible version. But the normal top is a soft or cloth top. Remember the Edsel and the Ford hard top convertibles back in the late 1950s? Well if you do, not only are you likely over 50 but you’ll notice from this adaptation of the hard top convertible that technology has done wonderful things for those great ideas of the past. They were simply too ahead of their time back then because the materials were not available to make those early retractable hard tops work well or reliably. This Sebring has come a long way since I tested the 2003 model year convertible. This 2008 model is really very nice and you absolutely have an excellent hard top or convertible option. Soft tops are not necessary these days and other than the nostalgia of a “rag top” idea, they don’t add much to the convertible experience. But they do cut the cost, in this case by $1,100.
General Info:
Parts – US/Canadian 77%. Engine – USA, Transmission – USA.
Assembly – Sterling Heights, MI, USA
Class: – Subcompact Cars
Cars: – 300, Aspen, Aspen Hybrid, Crossfire, Pacifica, PT Cruiser, Sebring and Town & Country.
Observation:
It occurres to me that lots of you who have shared your thoughts about the high price of gas were right on. You said there was too much speculation going on. You said we weren’t drilling enough at home. You pointed out that we have conservatively 200 years of oil in this country alone.
Then, Newt Gingrich former Speaker of the House came out and actually said it on national TV and you can see it on YouTube. Take a look at the video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOpcPfAarjY
Handling & Performance:
Plenty of power from the 235 hp V6 and responsive and comfortable to drive. It has good fuel economy in class.
Styling:
Very nice design changes over the years with a more substantial look and feel. The small rear seat is unavoidable for a 2-door. They have designed a good amount of trunk space when the top is up, but of course limited when it is down.
Fit and Finish:
Very good
Cost:
Competitive in class in spite of the fact it is a convertible as well. The hard top feature adds about $1,100.
Conveniences and comfort:
Usual standard equipment is fair but the cost goes up fast with options.
Consumer Recommendation:
If you’re in the market for a sporty convertible and don’t need a big back seat this is very nice. If adults will accompany you to the beach it won’t be a comfortable alternative.
Recognized Competition:
Chrysler Sebring $20-33,000, Chevrolet Monte Carlo $20-28,000, Toyota Prius $22-24,000, Toyota Solara $20-31,000, Kia Optima $17-21,000, VW Passat $24-38,000, VW Eos $29-38,000;
2009 models: Toyota Camry $19-29,000, Mitsubishi Galant $21-27,000, Hyundai Sonata $18-26,000, Chevrolet Malibu $21-26,000, Saturn Aura $21-26,000, Pontiac G6 $20-31,000, Ford Fusion $19-25,000, Mercury Milan $20-26,000, Mercury Sable $24-31,000, Mazda 6 $19-28,000, Honda Accord $21-31,000, Nissan Altima $20-29,000, Nissan Altima Hybrid $26,650.
Good News:
Decent fuel economy in class, fun to drive and powerful.
Bad News:
A little pricey for a subcompact along with others closest in class.
Standard Equipment:
3.5 liter 235 hp V6 engine, 6-speed automatic transmission with autostick, front and side curtain airbags, LATCH (child) system, 4-wheel power disc brakes, security alarm, sentry key theft deterrent system, power windows & locks, one touch top down, keyless entry, cruise control, power rack & pinion steering, air conditioning, power 6-way front seats, temp and compass, stereo with 6-disc CD/MP3 player, SIRIUS satellite with 1 year included, tire pressure monitoring, tortoise shell style steering wheel with audio controls, tilt and telescopic column, fog lights, power heated mirrors, power Soft top convertible.
Options:
Hard convertible top – $1,995, multimedia, GPS Nav, UConnect hands free – $900, Electronic Stability control and traction control – $425, Luxury group including heated seats, 18” chrome aluminum wheels – $1,095, Electronic convenience group incl. Auto air, auto headlights, touch screen display multimedia, hard disc drive, remote start, heated and cooled cup holders -$895.
Gas Stats:
$3.71/ Gal avg. September 7, ‘08
for more information.
16 City and 26 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $32,055 – With options $38,320.
