|  Chrysler is raising the roof on the convertible segment, introducing the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible. This completely redesigned Sebring Convertible is built on the company's new D-segment platform and offers what no other convertible on the road can offer: Chrysler's sleek and elegant design, exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably sits four adults and enough room in the trunk to hold two golf bags, even when the top is dropped.
Three engine options power the 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible sold in the United States: the standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, an available Flexible Fuel Vehicle (FFV) 2.7-liter V-6 engine and an available 3.5-liter V-6 engine coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick.
The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible’s standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder World Engine, with dual variable valve timing, rivals the best four-cylinder engines in the segment. This four-cylinder engine delivers fuel efficiency of 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, as well as smooth, quiet operation. Mated to a four-speed automatic transaxle, this 2.4-liter World Engine provides a 15 percent increase in horsepower (173 horsepower vs. 150 horsepower) and an 8 percent improvement in fuel economy compared with the four-cylinder engine it replaces.
An available flex-fuel 2.7-liter V-6 engine can operate effectively on any blend of gasoline and fuel-grade ethanol up to E-85. This engine option provides value- and performance-conscious consumers the power of a V-6 engine with a price that compares with the competition’s four-cylinder engines. The Chrysler Sebring Convertible Touring model’s 2.7-liter V-6 engine produces 189 horsepower and 191 lb.-ft. of torque, providing more low-end torque (at an rpm 850 lower) compared with the 2.7-liter engine it replaces. This 2.7-liter V-6 engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
Chrysler Sebring Convertible Limited models sold in the United States are available with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine that produces 235 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque coupled with a new six-speed automatic transaxle that comes standard with Auto Stick. The combination of the 3.5-liter V6 engine and six-speed automatic transaxle delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as smooth quiet operation. Sebring Convertible’s 3.5-liter V-6 engine achieves 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is one of the first Chrysler Group vehicles to offer a new six-speed automatic transaxle, which provides quicker standing-start acceleration than a four- or five-speed transaxle because of a numerically higher first gear ratio. A more robust differential with increased torque capacity enhances launch performance by requiring less torque management, electronically limiting the torque that is available during the initial stages of standing-start acceleration. Smaller steps between ratios also make for a smoother, quieter ride, as the engine speed doesn’t change as often with each shift. In addition, more ratio choices, more appropriate ratios for quicker acceleration and a lower overall top gear ratio provide a quiet ride and improved fuel economy at highway speeds.
The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible’s interior features a clean design with focus on quality, craftsmanship and execution. Soft surfaces on interior touch points, including the instrument panel cover and door arm rests, complement the convertible’s luxurious interior.
Inspired by the Chrysler winged badge, the convertible’s center stack features a Chrysler signature analog clock, which is surrounded by dual heating and air conditioning vents. Sebring Convertible’s instrument panel also includes a locking glove box that can secure important documents and small items.
As many as four occupants can experience the new Sebring Convertible’s comfortable, roomy interior. Occupants sit 2.5 inches higher than they did in the previous Sebring Convertible model, giving them a command-of-the-road seating position. Rear seat passengers also have plenty of leg and head room, making this a functional convertible that can be enjoyed year round in all seasons.
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