2002 Chrysler Sebring LXi

The other half of this option is firmer settings for the steering and suspension systems. Without jettisoning resilience over bumps, the tighter shock absorbers and more substantial feel from the steering wheel do a better job of inspiring confidence when you're bombing around back roads on the far side of the legal limit. The T-rated Michelin 16-inch radials grab the road like paint stripes. But best of all, their gentle breakaway characteristics help you survive emergency maneuvers like a professional test driver. On slippery roads, there's little or no likelihood of the tail of the car wagging ahead of the front end.

Wood-grain appliques enhance the LXi's interior appeal. The optional Luxury Group adds leather upholstery and a host of other options.

Interior decor faithfully mimics the top-shelf Chryslers mentioned earlier. Attractive wood-grain paneling is fitted to the center of the instrument panel and to each door surface. Leather upholstery comes as part of a Luxury Group that also includes a security system, a multi-channel garage-door opener and premium stereo speakers. Split-folding rear seats are standard equipment in all Sebring sedans. There's ample room in back for two, or three in a pinch. The trunk is a commodious 16.0 cubic feet, not counting the stretch potential of folding one or both of the rear seat backs. A nifty feature is a mini trip computer that keeps track of both instantaneous and long-distance gas mileage.


Safety-conscious customers will appreciate the optional side-curtain air bags that were introduced with 2001's redesign. The standard front air bags inflate in stages to tailor restraint to accident severity. They work well enough in government crash tests to earn a five-star rating for both the driver and the front passenger.


The midsize family-sedan class is one of the most hotly contested segments going. Imports currently dominate thanks to their reputation for value retention, reliability and quality construction. That said, the 2002 Chrysler Sebring is closing fast on the midsize target's bull's eye. Thanks to genes passed down from the more illustrious members of the Chrysler family, the Sebring has an excellent chance of winning additional friends and influencing more value-conscious shoppers. That's encouraging because the world will definitely be a better place with more of these handsome cars on the road. (www.chrysler.com)