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Walkaround
The Sebring convertible comes in two trim levels--the basic JX and the bountifully-appointed JXi. The paint job on our JXi test model--a new-for-'97, purplish-black color called Deep Amethyst Pearl--was contemporary without being flashy. The '97 model boasts such additions and improvements as a quieter intake manifold on the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, the AutoStick transmission on the optional 2.5-liter V6 engine, an enhanced theft alarm system, an optional electrochromic rearview mirror, a trip computer with compass on the JXi, and the addition of trunk-unlock and panic-alarm modes to the optional keyless remote entry system. The stylish rounded corners on the Sebring JX convertible strike an elegant contrast with the wedgier Sebring coupe and the pointy, on-the-prowl shape of the Sebring's Dodge clone, the Avenger. Indeed, its pleasingly Germanic lines suggest that, in its soul, the Sebring JX would really like to be a Mercedes SL. (A car can dream, can't it?) For a convertible, the Sebring JX's trunk space is respectable--enough room for maybe a suitcase and a half-dozen grocery bags. The top is a tight, firmly-mounted fit, and--a quality touch--has a glass rear window. The narrow, compact grille and sloping, contoured hood--and headlights that squint like Clint Eastwood's Man With No Name--combine to give the Sebring JX a look that's imposingly self-confident. With Chrysler's $545 destination charge, the JXi has a base price of $25,195. Our test car was equipped with such options as the 2.5-liter, 24-valve V6 engine ($800); the AutoStick transmission--an automatic that offers the option of manual shifting ($150); a 150-watt Infinity AM/FM/CD/cassette audio system ($340); and a $175 luxury convenience package that consisted of a HomeLink garage door opener integrated into the driver's side visor and an inside rearview mirror with the day/night feature. The ready-to-roll total was $26,660.
Interior Features
In addition to smooth styling, the Sebring convertibles--like the Sebring and Avenger coupes--are distinguished by exceptional rear seat legroom. There's plenty of space for two adults back there, a rarity in ragtops at any price. Standard equipment on the base Sebring JX convertible includes dual airbags, air conditioning, vinyl convertible top (fabric on our high-end JXi test model), rear defroster, tinted glass, front bucket seats, tilt steering column, map pockets, power windows and heated exterior mirrors. Sebring convertibles come with a four-speed automatic transmission. Sebring and Avenger coupes have five-speed manuals with the base engine, automatics with the optional V6. Let's start with the operation of the top. Instead of having to refer to the owner's manual, you release two windshield latches and press a single power switch. It's a handy setup when fair weather suddenly turns foul. Once the top is lowered, it can be covered by a boot that snugs down with easy-to-use Velcro tabs. And when the up" button is pressed, the front-seat windows automatically slide down about three inches to prevent the windows from misaligning when the top goes back up. The height-adjustable seatbelts are cleverly integrated into the back of the comfortable front bucket seats--so passengers won't trip over them while climbing into the back seat."
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