2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible First Drive

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Sebring Convertible

Weak-kneed engine notwithstanding, the standard Sebring Convertible comes well equipped with power windows, seats, door locks and mirrors in addition to air conditioning, heated outside mirrors, a power trunk release and the fully lined vinyl power top. It also comes standard with a six-disc changer capable of playing CDs or discs encoded with MP3 or WMA files. The interior is trimmed in faux silver with chrome accents, and cloth seating is standard. Chrysler’s YES Essentials stain resistant fabric is an option, although it should be standard; just connect well-fed seagulls and open-top cars and you’ll understand why. Also optional are Sirius satellite radio and a Bluetooth phone connection. Remote starting is available as a package bundled with remote top operation.

Sebring Convertible Touring

Touring models step up the feature list considerably, not the least of which is the 2.7-liter V6 engine. In addition to the standard model’s equipment, Touring models offer body-color power and heated outside mirrors, standard YES Essentials cloth seats, remote starting and top operation, LED interior lighting, and 17-inch wheels instead of the standard model’s 16-inchers. If you want the cloth or steel convertible top, you have to step up to the Touring model, where either is optional. The full range of audio systems is available, including Chrysler’s MyGIG entertainment system combo, which features a 20-GB hard drive and navigation system. A leather package bundles cowhide seats, steering wheel and shift knob, and heated seats are also available.

Sebring Convertible Limited

The Limited is the top end of the Sebring Convertible lineup, and is equipped with most of the other cars’ optional equipment as standard. Most importantly it boasts the only engine worth mentioning; the 3.5-liter V-6 is the largest of the three and the only powertrain capable of moving the Sebring with anything resembling urgency. It has most of the Touring model’s options as standard, including the cloth top, although you can opt for the hard top if you so desire. The MyGIG audio system is still optional, but the upgraded speaker package is standard, as are leather seats. Limited models also get chrome door handles, standard fog lights and 18-inch aluminum wheels.