2001 Chrysler Sebring Coupe

I know, I know. You're looking at this photo of the Chrysler Sebring coupe thinking, "Didn't she just review a Chrysler Town & Country minivan two weeks ago and a PT Cruiser right before that?" Guilty as charged. And you know what? Don't be surprised if a few weeks from now, there's another Chrysler review. What's happening here is not payola (puhleeze), but the simple fact that Chrysler's lineup is brimming with brand new for 2001. As much as I try to spread ink among manufacturers, news is news. And as far as my experience with Chryslers this year, it has been good news. This fresh Sebring coupe keeps that streak intact.
THE GOOD NEWS
This is the prettiest five-seat American coupe on the road, period. Basically a scaled down version of Chrysler's under appreciated 300M aesthetically, this Sebring's artistic lines are a study in restraint. You can't say that about many domestic coupes. Hey, it's even prettier than some of the expensive imports. Although still based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse, this new coupe is bigger and roomier than its predecessor. As with most any coupe, that is best enjoyed from the front seat, but this back seat is plenty usable. (There is also a four-door Sebring this year replacing the Cirrus, but it is based on an entirely different platform.)

Inside, uncluttered instruments and subdued overall styling continue the "less is more" design approach. Quiet but interesting. I think Chrysler has done a lovely job.

Engines also remain common ground for the Eclipse and this Sebring coupe, in my case the 3.0 liter 200 horsepower V6. New this year, however, is the availability of a manual transmission on the Sebring. Mine was thusly equipped.

The combination of larger engine/manual shift turns this face car into a driver's car. Although too refined to qualify in the scratch-and-roar category that defines many American sport coupes, the Sebring nonetheless delights in being pushed. The gears shift crisply, the acceleration rolls out with authority, the steering feels present. Even the exhaust note sounds lush. Bottom line: It's solid fun minus the show-off attitude.

THE BAD NEWS
My complaints lie less with the Sebring specifically than with this two-door genre in general. For starters, they don't consider you might put children in the back seat to avoid front air bags. I do and find that neither my back seat passengers nor I can successfully reach the passenger door to open or close. I don't have a reasonable solution; I offer this simply as heads up for those of you with kids.

Speaking of heads up, you do need to watch yours getting in and out of this pretty coupe. As is often the case, its luscious low profile means clipped headroom. Since the seats are adjustable enough to compensate inside, the real problem comes with entrance/exit. Mind your noggin.

GAS MILEAGE
EPA rated at 20 mpg city/28 highway

PRICE
Manufacturer's base, $21,475;
Price as tested, $25,105

IS IT WORTH IT?
I am hugely impressed with this Sebring coupe. I find it far more sophisticated than anything in its class in terms of looks, driving experience and comfort. It also feels solid, well put together. Certainly, this engine/transmission combination adds a tremendous amount of fun performance-wise and without them (a 147 horsepower four cylinder is also available), it would have an altogether different presence. Lovely to look at but a little light between the ears, if you know what I mean.

That said, the Sebring's design, reasonable roominess and overall integrity do remain its strongest points, so you don't have to spend the extra bucks to get a desirable car. Mine was fully loaded from sunroof to leather seats, things that certainly aren't essential to its value.

So I do believe it's worth it, if for no other reason than to park it in the driveway. Its sleek good looks will dress up your house.

By Beth Stein