Chrysler Sebring (convertible)

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Chrysler Sebring Convertible
1996-1998 Chrysler Sebring convertible
ManufacturerChrysler (1996-98, 2008-present)
DaimlerChrysler (1998-2007)
Also calledChrysler Cirrus R/T or Chrysler Cirrus Limited (Mexico)
Production1996–present (no 2007 models were made[clarification needed])
PredecessorChrysler LeBaron
ClassMid-size
Body style(s)2-door convertible
LayoutFF layout
ManualsService Manual

The Chrysler Sebring convertible is a mid-size convertible manufactured by Chrysler, as a replacement for the Chrysler LeBaron and now in its third generation — currently available as both a retractable hardtop and softop.

The Sebring convertible was the most popular convertible automobile in the world from 2001 through 2005, with nearly 40,000 produced per year[citation needed]. For the first two generations, tops were engineered and completed by Dura Convertible Systems[citation needed]. The third generation Sebring uses soft and rectractable tops supplied by Karmann and installed during manufacture to identical bodies.

First generation (1996-2000)

First generation
1999-2000 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Also calledChrysler Stratus
Production1996-2000
AssemblyToluca, Mexico
PlatformChrysler JX platform
Engine(s)2.4 L EDZ I4
2.5 L Mitsubishi 6G73 V6
2.4 L Turbocharged DOHC I4 (Mexico Only)
Transmission(s)
4-speed 41TE automatic
Wheelbase106.0 in (2692 mm)
Length1996-98: 193.0 in (4902 mm)
1999-2000: 192.6 in (4892 mm)
Width70.1 in (1781 mm)
Height54.8 in (1392 mm)
RelatedChrysler Cirrus
Dodge Stratus
Plymouth Breeze

The Sebring convertible was launched in 1996 as sister car to the Chrysler Sebring Coupe, although the Sebring coupe and convertible didn't share many components or any sheetmetal. This model was unique to Chrysler, as unlike other Chrysler brand cars, no Dodge or Plymouth counterpart was offered.

Engines

  • 1996-2000 - 2.4 L I4
  • 1996-2000 - 2.5 L Mitsubishi V6
  • 1996-2000 - 2.4 L DOHC Turbo I4 (Mexico Only)

Trim levels

  • JX - 1996-2000
  • JXi - 1996-2000
  • Limited - 1998-2000


Second generation (2001-2006)

Second generation
2001-2003 Chrysler Sebring convertible
Production2001–2006
AssemblySterling Heights, Michigan
PlatformChrysler JR platform
Engine(s)2.4 L EDZ I4
2.7 L EER V6
Transmission(s)5-speed manual (2002 GTC)
4-speed 41TE automatic
Wheelbase106 in (2692 mm)
Length193.7 in (4920 mm)
Width2001-03: 71.1 in (1806 mm)
2004-06: 69.4 in (1763 mm)
Height2004-06: 55.0 in (1397 mm)
2001-03: 55.1 in (1400 mm)
RelatedChrysler Sebring
Dodge Stratus
2004-2006 Chrysler Sebring convertible

For 2001, the Sebring Convertible was redesigned, and it now shared most of its sheetmetal with the sedan, though it still differed greatly from the coupe, with the front fascia and most of the interior being the only thing these cars had in common. Many interior and exterior components were carried over from the first generation car, though the body shell underneath is significantly different. The Sebring received minor styling revisions (mostly the appearance of the nose) for the 2004 model year.

Engines

  • 2001-2006 - 2.4 L I4
  • 2001-2006 - 2.7 L V6

Trim levels

  • LX - 2001-2003
  • LXi - 2001-2003
  • GTC - 2002-2006
  • base - 2004-2006
  • Touring - 2004-2006
  • Limited 2001-2006

Note: Additional packages could be added to various standard trim levels.


Third generation (2008-Present)

Third generation
2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited hardtop
Production2008–present
AssemblySterling Heights, Michigan
PlatformChrysler JS platform
Engine(s)2.4 L GEMA I4
2.7 L EER V6
3.5 L EGJ V6
Transmission(s)4-speed 40TES automatic
4-speed 41TES automatic
6-speed 62TE automatic
Wheelbase108.9 in
Length193.8 in
Width71.5 in
Height58.5 in
RelatedDodge Avenger

For 2008, the Sebring convertible was redesigned, with styling cues such as the hood's strake lines recalling the Chrysler Crossfire. Like the Mazda Miata, the Sebring is offered as both retractable hardtop and softtop, with the Sebring's roofs manufactured by Karmann. The redesigned Sebring convertible debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show, as an early-2008 model. [1]

2008 Chrysler Sebring soft top

Changes include a redesigned dash and new 2.4 I4 and 3.5 V6 engines, with a re-tuned 2.7 V6 from the previous generation falling between the 2 models. Unlike the Sebring sedan, the convertible is not offered in all-wheel drive. The convertible top now retracts into the trunk with a power tonneau cover, with a luggage protector for the top.

Trim levels

  • LX - 2008-present
  • Touring - 2008-present
  • Limited - 2008-present

References

External links

  • Official Site- The official site of the current Sebring Convertible
  • Chrysler.com - 2001 Sebring convertible homepage, courtesy of Internet Archive