After bombing around town (top down, of course) in our JXi test model--whichwas powered by the optional 2.5-liter, 168-hp V6--we don't think we'd settle
for the smaller (and noisier) 2.4-liter 150-hp four-cylinder that comes
standard.
In an automatic-only car, the V6 offers far better performance, and
we think it's well worth the extra $800. We'd also recommend the $150 AutoStick
option, which allows you to upshift or downshift manually by flipping the
lever left or right.
With the added power of the V6--and the increased responsiveness provided
by the AutoStick--the Sebring JXi provided respectable hustle in critical
passing scenarios. From a dead stop, the Sebring JXi jumps quickly out
of the blocks, though its 0-to-60 mph times are relatively tepid, and the
engine--particularly four-cylinder editions--isn't as quiet as some at
full throttle. But the Sebring convertible, as well as the Sebring and
Avenger coupes, don't pretend to be sports cars.
When negotiating hairpin turns and darting in and out of freeway traffic,
the Sebring's suspension was firm enough to keep body roll to acceptable