The new Sebring will be available with a choice of two soft tops (cloth or vinyl) or a retractable hardtop. The soft tops are a no-brainer because the Sebring's a warm-weather rental fleet staple. The new droptop's wheelbase is 2.9 inches longer than the sedan's, and the car's length overall is increased by 3 inches. Like past versions, it's designed to comfortably seat four and carry a reasonable amount of stuff in the trunk. A "reasonable amount" here is equal to two golf bags with the roof stowed under its hard tonneau (another new feature). Raise it, and you can carry the clubs for a foursome.
The top operation is fully automatic, with no more need to undo any latches before you let the sun in. In addition, the top can be operated from the car's key fob. Inside, you're greeted by the same plastacular interior introduced in the sedan, but it should be noted that the lighter colors look worlds better (in pictures, anyway) than the gray interior on the Sebring sedan we drove recently. All the goodies you can get on the sedan, such as the heated/cooled cupholders and the MyGig entertainment system, are available here, too.
Motivation comes from either the 173 horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder World Engine, a n E85-capable189 horsepower 2.7L FFV V6, or the Limited's 3.5L V6 with 235 ponies. The two V6s get six-speed automatic transmissions, while the four-banger makes do with a 4- forward gears. We definitely like the look of the convertible over the sedan, and the addition of the retractable hardtop is a welcome development, as the Sebring truly becomes a four-season machine when so equipped. Overall, we count the Sebring convertible as a pleasant surprise. Stay tuned this week for more feedback from the gang we've got on the ground.
