Used 2007 Chrysler Sebring

Accounting for more than one in every four passenger cars sold, the mid-size sedan market remains the most popular in the country. Currently, the segment consists of the class leaders, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and a host of "category alternatives," some of which are more compelling than others. Lately, though, it seems that almost every new or redesigned entry is showing up to the party with a combination of attributes attractive enough to merit consideration. For 2007, Chrysler has upped the appeal of its mid-size sedan with standout styling and some of the most compelling features available in the category.

Like so many of the new models we’ve driven within the past year or two, the 2007 Sebring practically antiquates its predecessor in every way. Still, on the list of things we like about the Sebring, its ride and handling characteristics aren’t at the top. Compared to a direct competitor like the Saturn Aura, for instance, the Sebring is neither as comfortable on the highway nor as eager on a winding road. Furthermore, the cabin isn’t as quiet and the powertrains aren’t as smooth. On all those fronts the Sebring is far beyond acceptable, however, especially for anyone attracted more by its styling and amenities. In fact, loaded up with MyGIG, a rear-seat DVD system and the heated/cooled cupholder, some could argue that the Sebring offers the most stuff for the money in the entire segment.

With a passenger cabin defined by clean, contemporary styling and a generous helping of metallic-look trim (plus a few instances of average-grade plastics), the Sebring might not be as warm or welcoming as some of its competitors, but it’s comfortable and attractive nonetheless. Complementing a host of available in-cabin technologies is a fold-flat passenger seat that can make laptop work easier (or help accommodate longer cargo). In between the base cloth and available leather seating, the Sebring offers an exceptionally stain-resistant seat fabric called YES Essentials. Limited models get a touch of tortoise shell-like trim.

Before its introduction, many figured the new Sebring would show up looking something like a scaled-down version of the Chrysler 300 large sedan that has been such a big hit for the automaker. According to company officials, however, that car’s bold look just didn’t downsize well. Instead, the Sebring adopts the general styling direction that now defines more than half the vehicles in the Chrysler lineup, a look that includes the grille, headlamps and distinctive hood strakes that made their debut on the pre-300 Chrysler Crossfire two-seater. Limited trim-level models are differentiated by chrome door handles, fog lamps and dual chrome exhaust outlets.

MyGIG
This optional hard drive-based system includes navigation with real-time traffic information, MP3/WMA music and JPEG image uploading, a high-speed USB 2.0 port, auxiliary audio input, voice-recognition, voice message recording and playback, Bluetooth hands-free cell phone connectivity and more.

Rear-seat Entertainment
The Sebring’s rear-seat DVD video system – the first offered in a mid-size sedan – includes dual headphones plus audio and gaming capability.

A base-equipped Sebring includes an AM/FM/CD/CD-MP3 sound system with auxiliary input jack, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, four-way adjustable steering wheel, delayed-off headlamps, cloth seats and 16-inch covered steel wheels. Standard safety equipment includes front, front-side and side-curtain airbags.

The highlight of the Sebring’s optional equipment list is the comprehensive MyGIG navigation, entertainment and communication system. Other standouts include a six-CD/DVD/MP3/SIRIUS satellite sound system, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, stand-alone Bluetooth cell phone connectivity, heated/cooled cupholder, heated front seats, leather seats and a moonroof.

The Sebring’s base four-cylinder engine delivers highway mileage of up to 32 miles per gallon, the range-topping 3.5-liter V6 offers 235 horsepower and the 2.7-liter V6 balances the economy and power of the two while offering the Flex-Fuel capability of running on gasoline, E85 ethanol or any mixture of both. The 3.5-liter benefits from a new six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick manual-shift capability, while the other engines are matched to a traditional four-speed automatic. All models are front-wheel drive.

2.4-liter in-line 4
172 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
165 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 24/32

2.7-liter V6
190 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
190 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/30 (Gas), 15/22 (E85)

3.5-liter V6
235 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
232 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/28