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Chrysler Sebring

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The Chrysler Sebring ( / ˈ s iː b r ɪ ŋ / SEE -bring ) is a line of mid-size automobiles that was sold from 1995 through 2010 by Chrysler . Three generations of convertibles, two generations of sedans, and two generations of coupes were produced. Although the coupe shared the same name and some styling cues, it was mechanically unrelated to the other Sebring models.

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98-593: The Sebring line was introduced in 1995 with the Chrysler Sebring coupe. It was the replacement for the Chrysler LeBaron coupe . In 1996 the convertible was introduced, replacing its LeBaron counterpart as well. For 2001, both body styles were redesigned and a sedan version was offered, replacing the Chrysler Cirrus . The coupe was discontinued after 2005 with no replacement model planned. The redesigned sedan

196-567: A " bottom breather " function. The Sebring coupe was built on a Mitsubishi Motors platform shared by the Eagle Talon , Mitsubishi Eclipse , Mitsubishi Galant , and Dodge Avenger . They share a great deal with their Talon sibling, including much of their dash and instrument panel along with most mechanical components. Parts of the Sebring coupe cannot interchange with the sedan or convertible, which were not built by Mitsubishi. The Sebring underwent

294-504: A "High Output" badge on the back of the vehicle. Also unique to the Cirrus were the trim levels; the sedan was offered in two while the convertible had only one. All were equipped with an automatic transmission. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the 2001–2006 Sebring an Acceptable overall rating in frontal crash tests. In the side impact test, a Poor overall rating was given to models without side airbags. The IIHS did not test

392-479: A 2.5 L TBI version generating 100 hp (75 kW). A turbocharged 2.2 L engine producing 146 hp (109 kW) was also available. The GTS moniker was dropped for 1989, the final year of this vehicle's production, after the K-based LeBaron sedan was discontinued after 1988. Production Figures: After some years of absence, Chrysler officially started offering some models under its brand on

490-574: A 4 out of 5 for driver side and a 3 out of 5 for passenger side frontal impact occupant protection. Production Figures: M and K-platform cars were assembled in the Toluca, Mexico facility. The M-platform LeBaron was sold in Mexico from the 1977 to the 1982 model years. The K-car LeBaron was also produced in Toluca and was sold for the 1983 through 1987 model years. There were no K-platform convertibles offered from

588-482: A 5-star frontal safety rating, the highest rating possible. First-generation body style coupes continued to be sold past the 2000 model year to select export markets. Trim levels : The Chrysler Sebring convertible was launched in 1996 alongside the Sebring coupe, replacing the LeBaron convertible. The convertible did not share any parts with the coupe and was instead based on the Chrysler Cirrus sedan. Consequently, both

686-562: A base model Dodge Stratus, the Breeze came standard with the 2.0 L I4 engine, five-speed manual transmission, 14-inch wheel covers, air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, AM/FM stereo, and driver and front-passenger airbags. The Breeze was also available with many options including a four-speed automatic transmission , 2.4 L I4 engine (available with automatic transmission only), anti-lock brakes , cruise control , power windows , power door locks , power mirrors , cassette or CD player, and

784-419: A black strip below the taillights in place of chrome, with special blacked-out window moldings on coupe models. In 1992 for the 1993 model year, the LeBaron received a slight facelift. The hidden headlamps of the 1987-1992 models were deleted in favor of less costly flush-mounted replaceable-bulb headlamps , new wheel styles were made available, and all models got the amber rear turn signals introduced on

882-523: A five-speed Getrag manual transmission. The Mexican AA-body Chrysler LeBaron 4-door sedan was called the New Yorker (all of them with Landau roof), and the "K" body (slightly shorter) was reserved for the 4-door LeBaron's, which were sold in two trim levels, one with Landau roof and leather, and the other one without those two options. Chrysler Cirrus The Chrysler Cirrus is a mid-sized 4-door notchback sedan introduced by Chrysler motors for

980-491: A four-door notchback sedan was designed with flowing lines with no distinct beginning or end, but almost resembled a two-box fastback . Design work was done during 1991, with the final version moved on for production by 1992. The Cirrus was introduced for 1995 as a replacement for the Chrysler LeBaron sedan. It was often compared to other smaller mid-size cars such as the Chevrolet Malibu , yet judged roomier than

1078-477: A full instrument cluster. The SE (1999–2000) was the least expensive trim level of Stratus in 2000. The SE included the same standard equipment as the previously-base Base trim level of Stratus. The ES (1995–2000) was the top-of-the-line trim level of Stratus from 1995 to 2000. The ES added the following equipment to the Base or SE trim levels: a 2.4 L I4 engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels,

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1176-571: A higher ground clearance for the road conditions there. In Europe, only the 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine or the 2.5 L V6 engine were available. The European version also had chrome accent moldings along the doors and bumpers. The Base (1995–1999) was the least expensive trim level of Stratus from 1995 to 1999. The Base was equipped with a 2.0 L I4 engine, a five-speed manual transmission, fifteen-inch black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an A/M-F/M stereo with four speakers, air conditioning, manual windows and door locks, cloth seats, and

1274-474: A host of power-operated features. Sebring also offered variable speed rack and pinion steering, 17-inch aluminum wheels with Goodyear Eagle tires, 4-wheel double wishbone suspension, one-touch power windows, one-touch moonroof, electrochromic mirror with compass, power accessory delay ignition (which allowed occupants to operate power window switches when the ignition is turned off), and Homelink universal transmitter, among other options. The Sebring coupe received

1372-426: A low extending waterfall grille that was either chrome or body-colored depending on the color of the vehicle. The Cirrus was one of the first Chrysler vehicles to feature the rose medallion logo, which had not been used in 41 years. From 1995 to 1997, the Cirrus was offered in two trim levels: the entry-level LX and the luxury LXi. The LX model was dropped for the 1998 model year, but returned in 2000 to compensate for

1470-411: A minor facelift for 1997. Its grille was replaced with a slightly larger black grid. The facelift also made the Sebring the first car to use Chrysler's "wings" logo. The 1997 restyle also saw the addition of ribbed lower body cladding and new wheel styles. Features offered on Sebring coupes included 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS, adaptive automatic transmissions, and fully independent suspensions, along with

1568-589: A padded vinyl half-roof with smaller "formal" backlight, as well as unique button-tufted bench seats. All LeBaron sedans came with a standard driver's side airbag , and could seat up to six passengers. Due to Chrysler's efforts to refocus the Plymouth brand at the value end and to expand the Chrysler brand's sales, for 1992 the Plymouth Acclaim would lose its mid-range LE and top-line LX trims. They were instead added to

1666-449: A power sunroof. Additionally, 1998 and 1999 Breezes offered an "Expresso Package" similar to the one available on the Voyager and Neon . "Expresso" content included special badging, unique wheel covers, upgraded audio system, and premium interior cloth in unique "Rhythm" pattern. The Breeze was discontinued early in the 2000 model year, as part of Chrysler's phaseout of the Plymouth brand ;

1764-421: A retractable metal hardtop styled by Alex Tremulis , who went on to later style part of the legendary Tucker of 1948. Only 6 of each were made. For the 1955 model year, Chrysler Corporation spun off Imperial as a separate make and division, its flagship luxury brand, taking its name from the original Chrysler Imperial series. Intended as a direct competitor for Cadillac , Lincoln , and Packard , Imperial

1862-500: A revitalized Chrysler Direct Connection performance parts division) and ran them from 1988 until 1998. Production Figures: The last LeBaron sedan was built on the front wheel drive AA platform , another K derivative, as junior level sedan to the more upscale New Yorker . It offered rebadged versions under the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim nameplates, and the three differed mostly in detail and trim choices, as well as

1960-434: A slightly different tuned fully independent suspension, along with 17-inch wheels wrapped with Goodyear Eagle performance tires. Recorded slalom speeds proved to be impressive for a car of its class, and were a result of Sebring's 4-wheel double wishbone suspension and variable speed rack and pinion steering; both of which were key contributors to the car's road manners. The coupe version of the Sebring had seating for five and

2058-531: Is ajar" or "Your engine oil pressure is low". The LeBaron was facelifted for 1986, receiving rounder front and rear ends to improve aerodynamics. A landau padded top replaced the sedan's full vinyl roof. The instrumentation cluster was revised from a rectangle speedometer and fuel gauge with a message center to round gauges similar to the Reliant/Aries but with an argent surround for a more upscale appearance. Coupes and convertibles were dropped for 1987, replaced by

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2156-468: Is available with all-wheel drive as an extra cost option for 2008 only. Trim levels : In 2008, the optional MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System became available. In addition, the Limited received the 2.4 L four-cylinder engine and was priced at the same level as the 2008 Touring model. Also for 2009, the rear badge placements were modified. For the model 2010 year, the hood was redesigned, eliminating

2254-457: The 3.0 L Mitsubishi V6 making a 141 hp (105 kW) in this application. The turbocharged engines were dropped from the lineup in 1992 for the 1993 model year. The coupe was discontinued after 1993. For the last two model years, the 3.0 was the only available engine. The convertible was discontinued after 1995, to make way for the new Chrysler Sebring coupes and convertibles , for 1995 and 1996 respectively. Throughout its lifetime,

2352-471: The Acclaim , the Breeze did manage to sell over 230,000 units and total production was greater than that of its Chrysler Cirrus sibling, which was produced for nearly two additional years. As part of Chrysler's new marketing strategy which addressed concerns that its brands were treading into each other's marketing territory, Plymouth, as Chrysler Corporation's low-price brand for essentially its entire existence,

2450-513: The Chrysler Corporation 's new cab-forward design, which was launched on the larger LH sedans in 1992. This three-box design was characterized by a large passenger cabin in proportion to a comparatively short hood and trunk, highlighted by a long, dramatically slanted windshield and short overhangs. Pushing the wheels further to the corners of the body created a much larger cabin than most other similarly sized vehicles of that time. The

2548-475: The Chrysler Newport Phaeton, a super-streamlined dual cowl phaeton with an aluminum body, and the remarkable 1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt, a sleek roadster with concealed headlights (like the 1936 Cord 810/812 ) and a retractable metal hardtop styled by Alex Tremulis , who would later style the legendary Tucker of 1948. Chrysler purchased Briggs Manufacturing Company in 1953. Two years after

2646-651: The D-segment . It received a generally unfavorable reception from European motoring journalists. The Chrysler Sebring was extensively refreshed in 2010, but was rebadged as the Chrysler 200 . The JS platform and bodyshell had been retained, but there were extensive cosmetic and powertrain changes to the vehicle. The name change helped distance the vehicle from the Sebring's reputation for quality issues and fleet pervasiveness. Chrysler Lebaron#1987.E2.80.931995 coup.C3.A9.2Fconvertible The Chrysler LeBaron , also known as

2744-623: The Dodge Aspen/Plymouth Volaré , the LeBaron was the inaugural model of the M platform (alongside the Dodge Diplomat ). In contrast to the Seville and Versailles, the LeBaron was offered as both a two-door coupe and a four-door sedan, with a Town & Country five-door station wagon added for 1978. Though the LeBaron sedan and station wagon were visibly similar to the Volaré (which shared

2842-490: The European Chrysler Saratoga . Theoretically, as historically was the case in this era versus its Dodge and Plymouth corporate siblings, the LeBaron was marketed as the luxury version, reflecting the Chrysler brand's flagship status. In reality, however, there was considerable overlap amongst the three in available trim, equipment and features. Launched in a single trim, the top-line LeBaron Landau model offered

2940-665: The Ford Contour by many magazines such as Consumer Reports . The exteriors of the Chrysler Cirrus, Dodge Stratus, and Plymouth Breeze were very similar, with the front fascia , rear bumper , taillights , and wheels being the main differences. The interiors had little variation between the three models; being almost identical, save for the name on the steering wheel , and a few available options. The fascias of each JA car corresponds with each brand's minivan offering, sharing headlights , and grille designs. All three variants of

3038-479: The Imperial LeBaron , is a line of automobiles built by Chrysler from 1931 to 1941 and from 1955 to 1995. The model was introduced in 1931, with a body manufactured by LeBaron , and competed with other luxury cars of the era, such as Lincoln and Packard . After purchasing LeBaron with its parent Briggs Manufacturing Company , Chrysler introduced the luxury make Imperial in 1955, and sold automobiles under

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3136-706: The Mercedes-Benz E-Class , and Mitsubishi Outlander. Four-cylinder World Engines for the Sebring were built at the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) plant in Dundee, Michigan for export to China. GEMA began as a joint venture of Chrysler, Mitsubishi , and Hyundai . Since 2009, GEMA is wholly owned by Chrysler. Chrysler introduced this generation Sebring in the European markets (including right-hand drive markets) as their first competitor in

3234-779: The Plymouth Breeze that was discontinued early in the 2000 model year. It was replaced by the 2001 Dodge Stratus sedan. The Cirrus was used as a patrol cruiser by the Macedonian police from 2000 to the 2010s. The LX (1995–1997; 2000) was the base Chrysler Cirrus trim level. It included the following standard equipment: a 2.4 L I4 engine, a four-speed automatic transmission, black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an AM/FM stereo with cassette player and six speakers, air conditioning, full instrumentation, power windows and door locks, exterior color-keyed side mirrors and door handles, and premium cloth seats. The LXi (1995–2000)

3332-509: The 112.7 in (2,863 mm) wheelbase), they had different hoods, trunk lids, and front and rear header panels. The LeBaron coupe shared the same wheelbase as the sedan/wagon (4 inches longer than the F-body coupe), with a sleeker roofline. A 225 cu in (3.7 L) Slant Six was the standard engine, with the 318 cu in (5.2 L) or 360 cu in (5.9 L) V8s optional. A three-speed Torqueflite automatic transmission

3430-510: The 1995 model year. Built on the Chrysler JA platform , the 4-door notchback sedan joined Chrysler's roster of "Cloud Car" models drawing their names from meteorological terms, including the mid-priced Dodge Stratus it was based on introduced at the same time, and the low-priced Plymouth Breeze variant a year later. Development of the Cirrus started in 1991, with the goal of creating an affordable, expressive-looking, fun-to-drive vehicle that

3528-408: The 2.0 L DOHC 16V inline 4-cylinder (later replaced by the 2.4L unit in some countries), and the 2.7 L DOHC 24V 6-cylinder unit. The 2.0 and 2.4L engines are available with the 5-speed manual or four-speed 41TE auto transmission (depending on the country); the six-cylinder engine is automatic only. The Canadian-market 240 km/h-160 mph speedometer (with km/h predominant) is fitted to

3626-526: The 2003 Chrysler Airflite concept . It also has several Chrysler-signature styling cues, several of which were borrowed from the Chrysler Crossfire . The Sebring sedan and convertible were also sold in right-hand drive through Chrysler's UK and Ireland dealer network. Chrysler offered three engines for the 2007 Sebring; the 2,360 cc (2.36 L; 144 cu in) GEMA I4 , the 2,736 cc (2.736 L; 167.0 cu in) EER V6 , and

3724-405: The 2004 Chrysler Sebring sedan had seen a mild cycle refresh, the company discontinued the Chrysler Sebring coupe after the 2005 model year. In Mexico, the Sebring was sold as the Chrysler Cirrus . Exclusive for the Cirrus was the availability of Chrysler's turbocharged 2.4 L DOHC engine. The Cirrus was available as a sedan and convertible body styles. Models with this engine are identified with

3822-435: The 3,518 cc (3.518 L; 214.7 cu in) EGF V6. The 3.5 L V6 is coupled to Chrysler's first ever six-speed automatic transmission , which employs Autostick technology, and the 2.7 L V6 is capable of running on cleaner-burning E85 . Export vehicles will be offered with a 2.0 L turbocharged PDTDI ( pumpe düse ) diesel made by Volkswagen and the 2.0 L GEMA engine. The 3.5 L V6 sedan

3920-468: The Airflow Imperials, to the Chrysler line. LeBaron supplied the high-end CW series. The design features were considered advanced and perhaps ahead of their time. However, the shape was too radical for buyer's tastes, and non-Airflow models outsold Airflows by about 3 to 1. Raymond Dietrich , co-founder and former stylist at LeBaron, was hired in 1932 to be Chrysler's in-house stylist. Dietrich restyled

4018-613: The Airflow line and moved Chryslers to more mainstream styles. As a result of the poor Airflow sales, Chrysler's designs became quite conservative for the next two decades. Auto manufacturers continued to build up their in-house styling departments and bodyworks. LeBaron thus became less important to most of its customers for design ideas and bodies. Toward the late 1930s, LeBaron/Briggs built more bodies for Chrysler and fewer for Ford. Chrysler became their biggest customer, with additional bodies built for Packard , Hudson , and Graham-Paige . During

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4116-537: The Chrysler Corporation introduced the Imperial as a separate luxury division, LeBaron was designated the top-of-the-line Imperial models in 1957 through 1975. The LeBarons started in the 1930s during the automobile's Classic era and competed directly with the luxury brands of its day, such as Lincoln , Cadillac , and Packard . In the mid-1930s, Chrysler added a radical new "Art Deco" design shape, known as

4214-563: The Cirrus and the Sebring convertible were sold in Europe as the Stratus. All Stratus convertibles were assembled in Mexico. The Chrysler Stratus convertible was marketed in Mexico, but the sedan version was not. The Sebring convertible was sold alongside the Chrysler Stratus convertible in Mexico. In Mexico, a turbocharged 2.4 L DOHC I4 engine was optional. Trim levels : The Sebring name

4312-581: The ES, and from 1999 to 2000, the 2.5 L V6 was the only engine on the ES model. The Stratus directly replaced the high-volume Spirit and Dynasty ( United States only) to favorable reviews, but lower sales. Mexico: A turbocharged version of the Stratus was sold in Mexico, with the 2.4 L DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission with AutoStick . This engine produced 168 hp (125 kW; 170 PS) at 5200 rpm and 216 pound force-feet (293 N⋅m) of torque at 2200 rpm. In 2000,

4410-519: The European market from April 1988. One of them was the "Chrysler GTS", which was a rebadged version of the Dodge Lancer ES. Sales figures were moderate. After discontinuing the first generation LeBaron coupe and convertible in 1986, Chrysler released a new LeBaron for 1987, built on the J platform (a K platform derivative) and available as a coupe or convertible. The all-new LeBaron looked modern and aerodynamic compared to its boxy predecessor and

4508-651: The European models. The odometer and trip meter are in kilometers. As the 2001–2006 Sebring sedan and convertible were made in left-hand drive only, they were not sold in the UK and Ireland. Chrysler UK did, however, import 50 convertibles with the 2.7 L engine in 2001/2002, and these were sold through selected dealers. Being non-standard in Chrysler's UK range at the time though, no more were imported. Trim levels offered in Europe were LE (equivalent to North American market LX) and LX (equivalent to North American market LXi). From 2004, Touring and Limited versions started to replace

4606-705: The Imperial brand in response to declining sales of the marque; the Imperial LeBaron was repackaged for 1976 as the Chrysler New Yorker Brougham. For 1977, the LeBaron returned, moving from Imperial to Chrysler. Introduced as a late model-year response to the Cadillac Seville and Lincoln Versailles , the Chrysler LeBaron was the first compact Chrysler ever produced. Effectively a new generation of

4704-490: The LE and LX designations respectively. The lack of a diesel engine and right-hand drive availability prevented this Sebring from being a true pan-European model unlike other Chryslers such as the Chrysler 300M, PT Cruiser, and Voyager. In addition, the model was dropped from Chrysler's lineup in some countries, notably France, before production ended in 2006. In France, the three domestic car-makers Peugeot, Citroen, and Renault dominate

4802-464: The LeBaron GTC, it was not offered with the automatic. Both turbo versions were discontinued during 1989; the 2.5 Turbo returned (only with the five-speed manual transmission) some time during 1990. The new version produces 155 PS (114 kW; 153 hp) at 4700 rpm, but it was discontinued yet again in 1991. The 3.0-liter Mitsubishi V6 engine was introduced to European buyers in mid-1989, and

4900-571: The LeBaron convertible/coupe was available in many trim levels. For its first year, the LeBaron was available in Highline and Premium , typical Chrysler trims at the time. The number of trims grew, peaking in 1990, with six available. After that, the number decreased until just two trim levels remained for 1995. The LeBaron coupe/convertible was part of Chrysler's export push and was regularly available across Europe. Springs and shocks were somewhat firmer on European-market cars. The initial European lineup

4998-494: The LeBaron lineup as the base and LX trims, below the former standard trim, which was now called Landau. The LX, which retained the Acclaim's taillights instead of the LeBaron's full-width treatment was available for 1992 only, and now the only model to feature the V6 as standard. For 1993, the LeBaron sedan received new rear lights , which incorporated the reversing lamps previously located in

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5096-588: The M-platform remained in use until the end of the 1980s, supporting several Chrysler-brand nameplates (alongside the Dodge Diplomat and Plymouth Gran Fury). Production Figures: (For 1979 and 1981, coupe and sedan production figures are not separated) For 1982, the LeBaron moved to the front-wheel drive Chrysler K platform , where it was the upscale brand's lowest-priced offering. It was initially available in just sedan and coupe versions. In early 1982, it

5194-507: The Sebring with side airbags since Chrysler declined another test. For 2001, the Sebring Convertible was restyled. It now closely resembled the sedan , and continued to be built on the same platform as the sedan. Many interior and exterior components were carried over from the first-generation car. The Sebring received minor styling revisions (mostly the appearance of the front end) for the 2004 model year . A redesigned Sebring Coupe

5292-689: The Stratus was available for its last year of sales in Canada, with the Chrysler Sebring taking over as the company's only lower mid-size sedan - Dodge did not sell the equivalent version in Canada. The Stratus was marketed as the Chrysler Stratus in markets that the Dodge name was not used; such as Europe, Argentina, and Brazil. In Brazil, the Stratus had the same engines as the North American version but

5390-547: The U.S. as grey imports . Some Euro-spec models have also been privately imported, mostly from Germany. The European versions are easier to re-register in the UK as they have EU-type approval. The dual km/h-mph speedo-display and twin rear foglights mean only headlamp beam-aim adjustment for left-hand traffic is necessary. The sedan is much rarer in the UK though; a few EU models have been imported, but most are likely from North America as grey imports. Note: Additional packages could be added to various standard trim levels. In 2006,

5488-518: The Volaré). The two-door moved to the shorter F-body wheelbase, also receiving aerodynamic enhancements to its rear sheetmetal. The interior underwent design upgrades to make the model line more luxurious. Chrysler introduced a limited-edition " Fifth Avenue " option package for the 1980 LeBaron four-door sedan. A conversion by American Sunroof Corporation, the Fifth Avenue featured a padded vinyl roof covering

5586-478: The all-new J-body LeBaron released that year. The sedan and wagon continued with minor changes until 1988. A new digital dashboard replaced the analog gauges for a more modern appearance. A larger LeBaron sedan based on the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim would arrive for the 1990 model year. The 1985 LeBaron GTS was a somewhat different car than the standard LeBaron and was based on the Chrysler H platform . It

5684-405: The bumper fascia. Trim levels were reduced to just the base model, renamed LE, and the luxury Landau. The LeBaron sedan was discontinued on May 18, 1994, while the Dodge Spirit and Plymouth Acclaim continued production until December 21, 1994. The Chrysler LeBaron was replaced by the "Cloud Car" Chrysler Cirrus . In 1994, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rated the LeBaron

5782-666: The convertible was not available in all-wheel drive . Production of the Chrysler Sebring sedan for the China market began in 2007 at the Beijing-Benz DaimlerChrysler Automotive Co. (BBDC) in Beijing. BBDC is a joint venture between the Beijing Automotive Industry Holding and Chrysler. Production of the Sebring leveraged assembly capacity for the new BBDC plant which also built the Chrysler 300C,

5880-476: The deluxe 1992 models. For 1994, a passenger side airbag became standard on all models. Also new for 1994 was the "Bright LX" decor package which included a "bright" chrome grille, "bright" chrome badging, and "bright" chrome molding inserts, as opposed to being body-colored on the GTC. The available engines were a naturally aspirated 2.5 L and a turbocharged 2.2 and 2.5 L versions of Chrysler's inline-four , and

5978-723: The factory. Chrysler Phantom was the Mexican-market version of the J-Body LeBaron Coupe. There were no convertibles of the J-body 2-door for the Mexican market. Phantoms were Chrysler's top-of-the-line model in Mexico and generally sold with a higher trim level than their United States counterparts; the Phantom was also only ever available with the more powerful, turbocharged engines. Chrysler Phantoms were marketed from 1987 until 1994, with

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6076-515: The first cars delivered in December 1986. A more powerful R/T version (similar to the American LeBaron GTC but using a higher-tuned turbo engine) was also available in 1992 and 1993. The Phantom R/T originally received the 2.5-liter 175 hp (130 kW) Turbo II engine, coupled to a three-speed automatic, but this was quickly changed to the 224 hp (167 kW) Turbo III engine with

6174-719: The last Breeze rolled off the Sterling Heights Assembly line on January 7, 2000. The Base (1996–2000) was the least-expensive trim level of the Plymouth Breeze from 1996 to 1999, and the only available trim level for the Breeze's final year of production in 2000. The Base included the following standard equipment: a 2.0 L I4 engine, a five-speed manual transmission, fifteen-inch black steel wheels with plastic wheel covers, an A/M-F/M stereo with four speakers, full instrumentation, air conditioning, cloth seats, and manual windows and door locks. The Expresso (1998–1999)

6272-423: The late 1930s and early 1940s, the LeBaron name and division became less critical for Briggs, although it remained a division of Briggs until the Chrysler buy-out in 1953. LeBaron's last projects for Chrysler were two concept cars: the Chrysler Newport Phaeton, a super-streamlined dual cowl phaeton with an aluminum body, and the remarkable 1941 Chrysler Thunderbolt, a sleek roadster with concealed headlights and

6370-771: The license, tooling, and assembly line for the second-generation Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus sedan was sold to Russian firm GAZ for about US$ 151 million (€ 124 million). After some minor modifications the vehicle was renamed the Volga Siber . It went into production in March 2008 at the Gorky Automobile Plant in Nizhny Novgorod , Russia. However, due to the Great Recession sales were not as expected and production ended in 2010 after 9,000 examples were built. The Sebring

6468-446: The longer European-size license plates, and two rear fog lamps are fitted; one on each side of the license plate. The LHD headlamps incorporate Euro-type H4 bulbs, together with three-way up and down beam-level adjustment via a dash-mounted switch to the left of the steering wheel. Emissions controls are to the EURO 3 standard; later versions are compliant with EURO 4. Engine ranges offered were

6566-426: The longitudinal grooves. The IIHS gave the 2010 Models a G for good in the frontal crash test, the side impact test, and the roof strength test, giving the 2010 Sebring a Top Safety Pick . For the 2008 model year, the Sebring convertible was redesigned with hood strakes recalling the Chrysler Crossfire . The new convertible body style debuted at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show as an early-2008 model. It

6664-560: The name Imperial LeBaron until 1975. Chrysler discontinued the Imperial brand in 1975 and reintroduced the Chrysler LeBaron in 1977 to what was then Chrysler's lowest-priced model. The "LeBaron" name has since been applied to five different cars built by the Chrysler Division: The last Chrysler LeBaron was produced in 1995, to be replaced with the Cirrus and Sebring . The LeBaron was one of Chrysler's longest-running brands. LeBaron

6762-402: The new car market, which meant very low sales of the Sebring there. As a result, the sedan was only imported by Chrysler France in 2001 and 2002. The 2003 and facelifted 2004–2006 year models were not. The convertible was only sold until 2004. The 2005 and 2006 models were likewise not imported. Despite not being available in the UK and Ireland, some Sebring convertibles have been brought in from

6860-438: The new components were designed to be smoother and more flowing than the comparatively boxy 1987-89 interior style, making it more in tune with the "aero" revolution of the early 1990s. The 1992 LeBaron coupes and convertibles could be ordered with a new "sport package", which featured a monochrome appearance including body-colored grille, accent stripe, and decklid logo. The package also included 14-inch "lace" style wheelcovers and

6958-453: The original 1940s Town and Country . This model was part of the well-equipped Mark Cross option package for the latter years. Despite being mechanically similar to the Aries and Reliant, its fascias closely resembled the larger E-body sedans. This generation featured Chrysler's Electronic Voice Alert , a computerized voice that warned drivers about various conditions with phrases such as "A door

7056-555: The platform were available with most of the same standard features: four-wheel independent suspension (double wishbone in the front with a multilink rear), air conditioning , tilt steering wheel , and driver and front-passenger air bags and available options, such as the following: an optional four-speed automatic transmission ( Autostick was not available on the Breeze), anti-lock brakes , cruise control , power windows , power door locks , power mirrors , sunroof. A five-speed manual

7154-521: The quarter glass of the rear doors and interior trim upgrades. Following the discontinuation of the Volaré for 1981, Chrysler introduced a police-equipment option package (keeping Chrysler-Plymouth dealers in competition for law enforcement fleet contracts); for 1982, the Plymouth Gran Fury was downsized to the M-body, directly replacing the Volaré. After the LeBaron was moved to the K platform for 1982,

7252-450: The rear trunk lid. The Dodge Stratus was introduced in February 1995, with two trims: base (later renamed SE for 2000), which came standard with the 2.0 L I4 or optional 2.4 L; and the ES, which came standard with the a 2.0 L from 1994 to 1997, and had a DOHC 2.4 L and a 2.5 L V6 as optional. In 1998 the 2.4 L was standard and the 2.5 L V6 was optional on

7350-511: The stock 2.2-liter and 2.5-liter, naturally aspirated or turbocharged, and for the 1990 model year, a 3.0-liter Mitsubishi V6 became available, although the Mexican Chrysler Phantom R/T DOHC 16V also offered the same 2.2-liter turbo engine as used in the U.S. market Dodge Spirit R/T . For 1990, the LeBaron's interior was refreshed, featuring an all new dashboard, gauge cluster, door panels, and center console design. All of

7448-465: The trunk with a power tonneau cover and a luggage protector for the top. The top can also be retracted with the remote keyless entry, meaning the top can be stowed without being inside the car or starting the engine. The LX model included a new 2.4 L I4 engine, the Touring version came with a retuned version of the 2.7 L V6, while the Limited featured a new 3.5 L V6. Unlike the Sebring sedan,

7546-523: Was a completely distinct vehicle make/brand that did not use the Chrysler nameplate. Through the existence of the division, Imperial used two nameplates alongside a nameless base model (Imperial Custom, from 1960–1963). Its mid-range line was the Imperial Crown, with the flagship line branded as the Imperial LeBaron (in deference to the coachbuilder); Southampton was a sub-designation applied for pillarless hardtop bodystyles. In June 1975, Chrysler retired

7644-577: Was available at the same time as the Cadillac Cimarron as a luxury-brand model while offering a similar level of equipment to the small Cadillac. As a 5-door hatchback still derived from the K-car, the GTS (and the similar Dodge Lancer ) was more of a performance vehicle than the softer-tuned K-car LeBaron sedan. In base configuration, the car was powered by Chrysler's 2.2 liter inline-4 engine , later replaced by

7742-559: Was built off the Chrysler JA platform also used for the Cirrus sedan, while the coupe was based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse . The Chrysler Sebring was named after Sebring, Florida , the site of the renowned endurance car race called the 12 Hours of Sebring . The name was first used by Chrysler Corporation's Plymouth division trim line of the Satellite mid-size coupe of the 1970s. The 1995 through 2000 Chrysler Sebring coupe

7840-409: Was considered to be one of the larger, more roomy coupes on the market. Trunk capacity was similar to that of many mid-size cars, capable of handling more than one set of golf clubs. At the time of its introduction, the Sebring sported a crosshair grille, reminiscent of the original Chrysler 300 letter series . The grille was non-functional, with the lower half under the bumper used for airflow intake in

7938-424: Was introduced for 2007, and a convertible the following year. New options included all-wheel drive on sedans and an available retractable metal top for the convertible. All Sebring models were replaced by the Chrysler 200 for the 2011 model year. The Chrysler Sebring was introduced as a coupe for 1995, and as a convertible in 1996, both models replacing the Chrysler LeBaron convertible and coupe. The convertible

8036-424: Was introduced for the 2001 model year, based on the third-generation Mitsubishi Eclipse. Like the previous generation, the coupe shared very little in common with the sedan or the convertible, other than the name and a few exterior styling cues to help market all three vehicles together as one model. The Sebring Coupe received a minor facelift for 2003, and was discontinued after the 2005 model year. The Sebring Coupe

8134-476: Was made up of the naturally aspirated 2.5 and the turbocharged 2.2; both were offered with a 5-speed manual or a 3-speed automatic. Power is 98 and 148 PS (72 and 109 kW; 97 and 146 hp) respectively. In mid-1988, the turbocharged 2.2 was partially replaced by the 2.5 Turbo, with power slightly lower at 146 PS (107 kW; 144 hp). The 2.2 Turbo received an intercooler, which boosted maximum power to 177 PS (130 kW; 175 hp). Called

8232-399: Was offered with all three engines, though a four-speed manual overdrive transmission was offered with the 225 and 318 engines through 1981. For 1980, the LeBaron underwent an mid-cycle facelift. The exterior was styled with sharper-edged sheetmetal and restyled with a waterfall grille (similar to the 1974-1975 Imperial); the sedan roofline underwent aerodynamic revisions (no longer shared with

8330-646: Was one of the many prominent coachbuilders in the 1920s and 1930s to provide bodies for luxury cars. It was founded in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1920 by Thomas L. Hibbard and Raymond H. Dietrich . It was later purchased by Briggs Manufacturing Company of Detroit in 1926, the major manufacturer of bodies for Ford, Chrysler, Hudson, Packard, and others, and operated as a Briggs specialist subsidiary. LeBaron supplied exquisite custom bodies for various car companies such as Chrysler's luxury Imperial line, Duesenberg , and Cadillac . LeBaron's last projects for Chrysler were

8428-661: Was only available with the four-speed automatic. It produces somewhat less power than the American models; 136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) at 5200 rpm. The top speed was 182 km/h (113 mph) and the 0–100 km/h (62 mph) sprint took 10.8 seconds. After the 2.5 Turbo was discontinued in 1991, the V6 remained the only regular option until the LeBaron Coupé/Convertible ended European sales in mid-1994. Several ARCA (one tier down from NASCAR cup racing) teams built LeBaron based race cars (supported by

8526-446: Was only sold in Canada for the 2001 model year. Chrysler also manufactured export versions of the 2001–2006 Sebring sedan and convertible for the mainland European market. Front and rear lights are to European standards, different from the USA & Canada in that turn-signal indicators are orange, with additional side-turn repeaters on the front fenders. The rear bumper has a larger recess for

8624-495: Was quite stylish for its day, featuring headlights hidden behind retractable metal covers and a waterfall grille, steeply raked windshield, full-width taillight lenses though only the edges lit up, and curved ( Coke bottle ) style rocker panels. The LeBaron was equipped with a trip and fuel economy computer as well as full instrumentation. In Mexico, these models were marketed as the Chrysler Phantom. The available engines were

8722-450: Was released in a convertible version, bringing to the market the first factory-built open-topped domestic vehicle since the 1976 Cadillac Eldorado . A station wagon version called the Town and Country was also added. A unique Town and Country convertible was also made from 1983 until 1986 with a 1,105 total produced, which, like the wagon, featured simulated wood paneling that made it resemble

8820-610: Was replaced with a new model based on the JS platform for the 2007 model year. The third-generation Sebring was assembled in Sterling Heights, Michigan , containing over 82% of parts sourced in North America. Since no 2007 convertible was offered, the 2006 Sebring convertible was left to fill the void, remaining in showrooms and on the company's website until the 2008 model's release. The third-generation Sebring borrowed many styling cues from

8918-472: Was standard with the 2.0 L. The 2.4 L was not offered in a manual because of its high torque and difficult drivability issues, mainly due to excessive wheel spinning at speeds over 100 mph. The Cirrus was originally available in two trim levels: the well-equipped base LX and the luxury LXi . Both models featured sporty, black twin-post side mirrors , fog lights , the same body side moldings, chrome bumper accents, an automatic transmission and

9016-412: Was still safe enough to transport an everyday family. The concept car designed for the 1992 auto show circuit featured rear suicide doors and a 400 hp (298 kW; 406 PS) turbocharged 3.0 L two-stroke engine using alcohol fuel . The concept also foreshadowed a hood-line with almost no break with the windshield to improve aerodynamics. Both the concept and production model used

9114-518: Was the second bestselling four-place open-top cars in the United States, trailing only the Ford Mustang convertible. The new convertible offered both a retractable hardtop and soft tops, with the Sebring's roofs manufactured by Karmann . A vinyl top came on the base LX model, a cloth roof on the Touring and Limited models with the option of a retractable metal top. The convertible top retracts into

9212-595: Was the successor to the Chrysler LeBaron coupe. The first generation Sebring coupe was introduced in April 1995, several months after the related Dodge Avenger . Despite its similarities to the Avenger, Chrysler's suspension was tuned slightly on the softer side compared to Dodge's stiff suspension. Although the Sebring did not really offer true "off-the-line" muscle, it did handle well over long, curvy roads, offering minimal body roll. LXi models further benefited from rear sway bars,

9310-448: Was the top-of-the-line Chrysler Cirrus trim level. It added the following equipment to the LX trim level: alloy wheels, a premium AM/FM stereo with cassette player and integrated CD changer controls, keyless entry, chrome accents, a premium front grille, and wood grain interior trim. The Plymouth Breeze was released in 1995 as a 1996 model. Although it did not match the sales of its predecessor,

9408-444: Was the top-of-the-line trim level of the Plymouth Breeze, but was discontinued after 1999. The Expresso added the following equipment to the Base trim level: power windows and door locks, an A/M-F/M stereo with cassette player and six speakers, premium cloth seats, exterior color-keyed side mirrors and door handles, and a 2.4 L I4 engine with a four-speed automatic transmission. An "Expresso" decal adorned both front doors, as well as

9506-457: Was then used on three different cars for 2001: the coupe was based on the Mitsubishi Eclipse , while the sedan and convertible utilized the Chrysler JR platform successors to the Chrysler Cirrus . The 2004 Chrysler Sebring had received minor tweaks to its front end: a redesigned grille, reworked headlights, and a Chrysler winged emblem placed in the center on the rear deck; furthermore, after

9604-465: Was to focus exclusively on value. As a result, the Breeze (as well as the base model Stratus) filled the position as the entry-level JA car. Due to this, the Breeze lacked certain features including an available V6 engine, alloy wheels, leather interior, body-colored door handles, fog lights, and Chrysler's Autostick transmission, all of which were offered on the Stratus and Cirrus. The Plymouth Breeze came only as one basic model. Equipped similarly to

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