Rag Top, Topless, Drop Top, Convertible, Sun Fun, Hardtop, Soft-top and more. Okay folks, we are not talking about women outfits here, we are talking about the top 10 convertibles for this summer.

The automotive industry has come back with a vengeance developing and marking some of the best convertible cars yet. When a new panoramic sunroof just does not do it for you need to go completely topless then you may want to take a look at one of the top 10 Topless Cars for this summer.

#10

Mini Cooper
Price: $21,950

The Mini Cooper has made its mark as a favorite “little” car and recently a favorite due to the high gas prices. This soft top convertible has the same attractive cues as does the regular coupe. Also available is a version with a retractable soft-top that glides back for a panoramic vista roof view.

#9 and #8

Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky
Price: $22,165 and $25,525

You can consider both the Pontiac Solstice and Saturn Sky the little sisters or brothers of the Chevy Corvette, a convertible version of course. The new power plants may consider these little roadsters “pocket rockets” with a new 260hp turbocharged 2.0 liter. With that version it may set you back about 30 grand. Saturn Sky Test Drive.

#7

Ford Mustang
Price: $24,475

We have seen it, loved it, and now we still enjoy the infamous Ford Mustang with a soft drop top. When we say fun in the sun, this is it. Still one of the most affordable sports coupes you can buy on the market. As always, you can let your hair blow in the wind and still have some cash in your pocket for some expensive gas.

#6

Chrysler Sebring
Price: $26,160

This has got to be one of the most driven convertibles by tourists, business execs and those who want an inexpensive alternative to drive around in the sun. Rental car companies are not shy about offering a convertible and the Chrysler Sebring is usually THE choice. Recently added to the line-up is a hardtop convertible so you do not have to worry about a Mickey Mouse stalker cutting open your top to steal your iPod. Chrysler Sebring Convertible Test Drive.

#5

Honda S2000
Price: $34,300

The Honda S2000 is pretty much self explanatory by now. If you do not know about the Honda S2000 then you have been out-of touch from the automotive industry for a LONG TIME. This one is MONEY, quality in a pocket rocket with solid performance out of a 4-banger. If you live revving beyond the limit while enjoying the outside environment then this is the car for you.

#4

Chevrolet Corvette
Price: $54,575

Do you want some power pushing you around while the wind wisps past your face? No we don’t mean getting punched in the face, we mean the Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. Probably the fastest convertible you can buy for the money. 0-60 in 4.0 seconds, 430hp, over 25mpg, rear wheel drive all with a drop top… can’t beat that! Chevrolet Corvette Convertible Test Drive.

#3

Porsche Boxter S
Price: $55,700

The Porsche Boxter has grown up in the recent years and blossomed into a major alternative to those seeking a German engineered toy in a semi-practical package. With 295hp you would expect this convertible to drink gas faster than it makes heads turn when you drive past a group of on-lookers. Just like the Corvette, this drop top gets 26mpg and it is truly all Porsche for a lot less than it’s bigger brother, the 911.

#2

Jaguar XKR
Price: $92,035

We tested sex on wheels some time ago and found it to be just that, sex on wheels that can stay topless all day long and keep the heads turning. This cat purrs through it’s 300hp engine pushing near 4000lbs. around on the long cat legs that provide a subtle and smooth ride. Don’t let the soft fur of this cat fool you, it can play around with the best of the big dogs all while not being shameful of going topless.

#1

Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG
Price: $132,000

This one is a no-brainer if you want to choose a “nice” convertible to introduce the homecoming king and queen to a stadium full of alumni, just don’t press the gas pedal to hard. If do you do get this baby out on an open road with seatbelts securely in place, it wont disappoint at all. It touts 604hp through a turbocharged V12 engine matted to a 7-speed multi-clutch automatic tranny. If that is not enough to keep you satisfied then the hard top will allow you and your single passenger to both go topless and still make it in time for kickoff at the big game.

[idea of article from: msnautos.com]

Chrysler is once again raising the roof in the mid-size convertible segment. The all-new 2008 Sebring convertible is built on Chrysler’s new D-segment platform, and delivers what no other convertible on the road can: Chrysler’s sleek and elegant design, fun-to-drive performance with excellent fuel efficiency, a spacious interior that comfortably sits four adults, and enough room in the trunk to hold two golf bags, when the top is dropped.

The all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring convertible is the only four-passenger convertible to offer three automatically latching convertible top options: vinyl, cloth and a body-color painted steel retractable hard top, all of which can be retracted with a push of a button.

Top that with a standard power hard tonneau cover on all models, and top up or down, the Chrysler Sebring convertible provides the benefits of a coupe and the true open-air freedom of a convertible, all at a surprisingly affordable price staring at $26,145.00.

The Sebring convertible has held the honor of America’s favorite convertible for seven of the past eleven years and leading the segment is still a top priority for the new Sebring convertible. Chrysler’s development team paid keen attention to details, finding ways to make life easier for the driver and passengers, while creating a clean design in the process. The result is a Sebring convertible that delivers many standard innovative and thoughtful features including available remote convertible top-down operation on the new key fob, a fully automatic latching top system, seat belts integrated into the front and rear seats which look clean, enhances seat comfort and makes it easier for passengers to get into the back seat; available remote start allowing owners to warm up or cool down their convertible from a distance, an available windscreen that reduces wind and road noise with the top down, a locking glove box that can secure important documents and small items, an available heated/cooled cup holder, available YES Essentials stain-resistant, order-resistant, anti-static seat fabric; rear cup holders that are positioned in the rear quarter panels for easy access; passenger seat back that includes a map pocket for storage, and doors that include map pocket inserts.

On the outside designers gave the convertible model several design traits from the all-new Sebring sedan such as the distinctive face of Chrysler, the brand’s signature eggcrate grille and a uniquely sculptured hood that features the Chrysler brand’s elegant sculpted lines. The Chrysler winged medallion is centered at the top of the grille just below the leading edge of the hood. Large quad headlamps wrap around to the side where the all-new Sebring convertible’s profile takes on a shape of its own.

The all-new Sebring convertible’s wheelbase is 2.9in. longer, sits 3.5in. taller, and is more than 2in. wider than last year’s model. Overall length is also 3in. longer than the sedan, which lengthens the side profile and provides enough cargo room in the trunk, 13.1cu.ft. with the top up, and 6.6cu.ft. when the top is down, which compares well with the trunk space in most mid-size coupes. The Sebring convertible’s profile is defined by a long hood, a long roofline and a high chrome beltline, all of which give the Sebring a nicely proportioned, elegant greenhouse with the top up. Designers also minimized the width of the C-pillar, improving the convertible’s sleek side profile and increasing rearward visibility when the top is up. Sculpted character lines run across the body, underneath the door handles, and across the lower bodyside, producing the Sebring convertible’s athletic stance. The wider stance also improves the handling and stability of the car while the longer wheelbase improves ride smoothness.

From the rear, wide tail lamps are mounted on the corners and deck lid for visibility and visual impact. Rear fog lamps mounted in the backup lamps help maintain a uniform appearance among models sold around the world. The base LX and upscale Touring models have a single exhaust tip, and the ‘top-of-the-line’ Limited model has chrome-tipped dual exhausts.

The all-new interior features a modern, clean design with focus on quality, craftsmanship and execution. Interior accents of alloy silver and chrome are featured on the dashboard and doors of the LX model, satin silver and chrome on the Touring model, and satin silver, chrome and tortoise shell on the Limited model. The sporty front bucket seats are very comfortable and supportive. Soft surfaces on the interior touch points, including the instrument panel cover, and door arm rests, complement the convertible’s luxurious interior. Inspired by the Chrysler winged badge, the convertible’s center stack features a Chrysler signature analog clock surrounded by dual air vents. The instrument cluster is easy to see and understand with large speedometer and tachometer gauges. All buttons, dials and switches are within easy reach and illuminated for safe nighttime driving. The center floor console features dual cup holders, dual storage bins, and a sliding armrest that moves 3in. to provide a comfortable position for all drivers. The shift gate features a chrome surround for another luxury touch, and is easy to use.

As many as four occupants can experience the new Sebring convertible’s comfortable, roomy interior. Occupants sit 2.5in. higher than they did in the previous Sebring convertible giving them a command-of-the-road seating position. Rear seat passengers also have plenty of leg and head room, making this a functional convertible that can be enjoyed year round in all seasons.

The all-new Sebring convertible was engineered to have an extremely rigid body structure, which gives it a quiet, comfortable ride, devoid of cowl shake, even when the top is down. Compared to last year’s model, the body structure is substantially stiffer in bending and torsion due to very large sills. Its new front-wheel-drive architecture and the three-box vehicle design contribute to a body that is 2.5 times stiffer in twist, and 1.5 times stiffer in bending. These refinements also make the new Sebring convertible structure stiffer than other convertibles on the market costing thousands of dollars more.

Three engine choices power the all-new 2008 Sebring convertible making it easy to choose for the kind of driving needs that today’s consumers have. The standard 2.4 liter four-cylinder ‘World Engine’ with dual VVT delivers 173hp and returns 20mpg/city and 29mpg/highway. The Touring model features a more refined and powerful 2.7 liter V6 producing 186hp and 192lb.ft. of torque. It achieves 18mpg/city and 26mpg/highway. The 2.7 liter V6 is also a ‘Flex-Fuel’ capable engine that can run on any grade of gasoline and E-85 ethanol which is rated at 105 octane that can increase the horsepower and torque figures of the engine.

Both of these engines mate to a 4-speed automatic transaxle. For more power and torque for those that want higher levels of performance is the 3.5 liter V6 engine that makes 235hp and 232lb.ft. of toque. This high-output engine is mated to Chrysler’s new 6-speed automatic transaxle with Auto Stick. This combination delivers excellent performance and fuel efficiency, as well as smooth, quiet operation. It returns a very good 16mpg/city, and 26mpg/highway fuel efficiency.

The fully independent suspension is new and gives you higher levels of performance driving at high speeds and when cornering around twisting roads. Up front are MacPherson struts, coil springs over gas-charged shocks and stabilizer bar in an isolated suspension cradle. In the rear is a multi-link setup with coil springs, gas-charged shocks, a link-type stabilizer bar and isolated rear suspension cradle. The isolated suspension cradles enhance response, and lesson noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) for a real sporty ride.

The new, refined, speed proportional, power rack & pinion steering system really makes driving the Sebring fun and very enjoyable. The small, sporty wheel gives excellent feedback from the road and responds quickly to your inputs. Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control come standard and help keeping you safely on your path, even on slick road surfaces.

Quickly and safely slowing the all-new Sebring convertible are new, larger steel disc brakes with standard ABS and Brake Assist helping you during severe braking maneuvers. Up front are 11.5in. vented discs clamped with single-piston, floating calipers, and 11.8in. solid discs in the rear, clamped with single-piston floating calipers.
The Sebring LX model rides on 16X6.5in. machined and painted cast aluminum wheels wrapped with Firestone 215/65R16in. tires. The Touring model comes standard with 17X6.5in. machined and painted, cast-aluminum wheels wrapped with Bridgestone 215/60R17in. Turanza all-season touring tires, and the Limited comes standard with 18X7in. chrome-clad cast aluminum wheels wrapped with Bridgestone 215/55R18in. Turanza tires. These bigger and high-performance wheels and tires add to the traction and more compliant ride of the Limited model, and are optional on the Touring model.
I really like everything about the new Sebring convertible after my seven-day test drive.
I would like to see a little more higher-grade interior parts with less hard-plastic, and of course rear-wheel-drive to fully appreciate the power and performance of the all-new Sebring.

Standard equipment in the Touring model that I tested, not mentioned above, includes:
Heater/AC, rearview mirror with reading lamps, driver’s manually-adjustable lumbar support, Yes Essentials stain/odor resistant seat fabric, AM/FM stereo radio with in-dash 6-disc player and 6-speakers, travel/mini-trip computer, temperature/compass readout, tire pressure monitoring display, rear courtesy console lamp, center console 12-volt power outlet, auxiliary 12-volt power outlet, electroluminescent instrument cluster, tilt/telescope steering column, power trunk-lid release, power accessory delay, thick-cut pile carpeting with premium front/rear floor mats, heated side mirrors, power door locks/windows with both express down, rear glass window with defogger, variable intermittent wipers/washers, cruise-control, keyless entry, ignition switch on center console. options include leather trimmed seats, steering wheel, shift knob, heated front seats, fog lamps, steering wheel mounted audio controls, power cloth top with two layers of material, a premium interior headliner, and a windscreen. Other options include MyGIG voice-activated Harman/Kardon navigation/audio system with touch screen, voice commands, 20-gigabyte hard drive, DVD/MP3 play capability, Boston Acoustics speakers, automatic dimming rearview mirror, six-way power driver/front passenger seats, and lighted vanity mirrors.

Standard safety features on all three models include front/rear crush zones, steel beams in each door, advanced multi-stage front airbags, supplemental front seat side airbags, supplemental rear side airbags, LATCH ready child seat anchors, Sentry key theft-deterrent system, and inside emergency trunk lid release.

In every respect, the all-new 2008 Sebring convertible is better than last year’s model.
For a starting price of only $26,145.00 it is one of the lowest priced mid-size convertibles on the market and worth a test drive if you are shopping for one.

COPYRIGHT:2008:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Wheelbase: 108.9in.
Track: f/r-61.8/61.8in.
Overall length: 193.8in.
Overall width: 71.5in.
Overall height: 58.5in.
Fuel tank: 16.9 gallons
Headroom: f/r-38.8/37.2in.
Legroom: f/r-42.4/33.5in.
EPA rear compartment volume: 35cu.ft.

Source: cars.com

Although flying cars aren’t yet a reality, automakers are continually developing new technologies to make our cars safer and more futuristic. Here are some of our favorite automotive features from 2007 that edge us ever-closer to a car George Jetson would be proud of. Features from a number of cars made our list, but the 2008 Infiniti EX35 received the most mentions, including the top spot with our favorite new feature, Lane Departure Prevention.

Best New Feature: Lane Departure Prevention

Where you can find it: Infiniti EX35

Infiniti’s Lane Departure Prevention builds on conventional lane-departure warning systems, which detect lane markings and sound a chime if you drift astray. LDP goes one step further by gently applying the brakes to certain wheels to nudge you back on course. Sound too intrusive? We tried it out in the EX35 and it keeps a remarkably low profile. Hit the turn signal or steer the wheel slightly, and the system deactivates. On straight roads, it intervenes with just a hint of deceleration, and the dashboard chime alerts you of its actions. For its effectiveness and low profile, LDP is the winner.

Scratch Shield Paint

Where you can find it: Infiniti EX35

The crusade for city-friendly transportation began years ago with plastic bumpers and dent-resistant doors. It reaches new heights with Infiniti’s Scratch Shield paint. On the EX35, Scratch Shield combines a highly elastic resin with the clearcoat finish. The resulting surface is said to maintain a glossy appearance over the years, and it can actually undo minor damage in the course of a few days. While Scratch Shield won’t repair dents or gashes, Infiniti says it can restore things like fingernail scratches under the door handles. We haven’t had a chance to see it in action, but we’re intrigued by the prospects.

Around View Monitor

Where you can find it: Infiniti EX35

Let’s be clear on one thing: Infiniti’s Around View Monitor ain’t pretty. With cameras mounted on each side of the car, its fish-eye, top-down view distorts any three-dimensional object nearby. But is it effective? You bet. With a 360-degree view of exactly what’s around your car, it reduces getting into narrow parking spots and crowded alleys to a science. Even the best front-and-rear sonar systems can’t replicate this. You have to see it — and park it — to believe it.

Full-Size Hybrid SUVs/Trucks

Where you can find it: Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, Chrysler Aspen, Dodge Durango, GMC Yukon

To date, hybrid technology has graced only compact and midsize SUVs. Sharing a new 2-Mode Hybrid system, several GM and Chrysler Group full-size SUV models and a pickup truck deliver significant mileage gains — if early estimates prove accurate. Some environmentalists cry heresy over this development, but we can’t see how fuel economy improvement in the vehicles that need it most could be a bad thing. The trucks give up almost none of their hauling and towing capabilities, remaining useful to the people who really need them and would buy full-size anyway, hybrid or not.

Integrated Booster Seats

Where you can find it: Volvo V70, Volvo XC70

This is one of those simple features that make so much sense you wonder why they’re not present on more cars. In the new V70, the cushions of the outboard rear seats can easily be raised to one of two levels to better accommodate children, which means no more fumbling around with an aftermarket booster seat. What’s more, Volvo says the side curtain airbags in the V70 extend lower, which in conjunction with the raised seating position gives a child’s head greater protection in a side-impact collision.

Heartbeat Sensor

Where you can find it: Volvo S80

We’re dubious about the usefulness of a heartbeat sensor, but we were won over by the fact that such a futuristic feature is available in today’s cars. The heartbeat sensor, which Volvo says can help you determine if someone is lying in wait inside your car, is part of the S80 sedan’s Personal Car Communicator fob that can also do other things, like tell you if your car is locked or unlocked up to about 300 feet away.

Easy Third-Row Access

Where you can find it: Hyundai Veracruz

Getting into the third row in SUVs has gotten progressively easier in recent years, but the Veracruz has a three-step system that outshines the competition. Each part individually doesn’t seem like much, but put all together it’s a wonder no one else has thought of it. First, there’s a one-hand release latch that moves the second-row seat up, sliding it forward on rails. Secondly, there’s a cubbyhole tucked inside the Veracruz wall, right where little ones will need it to help themselves into the car. Finally, the second-row seats come with a handle that lets third-row occupants pull the seats back toward them, helping kids trying to get into the second row. Simple ideas, but great implementation.

Sirius Satellite TV

Where you can find it: Chrysler minivans

Any parent can tell you that one of the big drags about taking kids on long trips is all the stuff you’ve got to carry with you. Chrysler’s new Sirius Satellite TV makes this a bit easier by removing your DVD collection from the list. Your kids can watch one of three channels (the Disney Channel, Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network) on one or both of the rear swing-down screens; if it’s just one, the other can show a DVD or video game. Given these three channels offer programming that can satisfy kids from infancy through their teen years, this is a big step forward.

Sync Hands-Free System

Where you can find it: Various Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models

Ford has addressed driver distraction with a voice activation system that takes the fumbling out of using cell phones and digital music players. Sync allows drivers to control Bluetooth phones and MP3 players and storage devices that have a USB input using simple voice commands — it even reads text messages from compatible phones. Sync is standard on most uplevel trims in a dozen Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models; it’s a $395 option on base trim levels. That’s a lot of tech for not a lot of dough.

Volvo Blind Spot Information System

Where you can find it: C30, S40, S80, V50, V70, XC70, XC90

Volvo prides itself on safety innovations, and this is the latest. The new S80, V70 and XC70 have an optional blind spot information system that alerts drivers to cars that are hard to spot using mirrors. Two cameras are attached to the side mirrors, and a pale orange light illuminates whenever changing lanes would lead to hitting someone in the dreaded blind spot. A single button turns the system on and off if you’re in heavy traffic, but the faded hue of the lights doesn’t distract from driving. It’s a clever heads-up for the safety conscious.

 

source: cars.com

Chrysler announced today it will cut four models from its lineup: The Chrysler Crossfire, Pacifica and PT Cruiser convertible, and the Dodge Magnum. The automaker also announced plans to cut some 9,000 jobs at assembly plants that produce a number of other models: the Chrysler 300 and Sebring; Dodge Avenger, Caliber, Charger and Nitro; and the Jeep Commander, Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty and Patriot. Though those 11 models – as well as the regular PT Cruiser – will still be sold, expect production to be scaled back. For shoppers, that likely translates to fewer cars with massive discounts clogging showroom floors.

The decision has been coming for several weeks now, with rumors brewing that Chrysler could cut up to five models. The Crossfire and Pacifica have trailed the competition for years, but it’s a shame to see the Magnum go. With the Hemi V-8, it was one fun cruiser. If they’d asked us, we probably would have advised canning the latest Sebring instead – or at the very least taking it back to the drawing board.

Chrysler spokesman David Barnas told us 2008 would be the last year for all four models. That means in about a year’s time there should be some steep discounts to clear the last of them off the lots.

Inspired by the 2003 Chrysler Airflite concept vehicle that was unveiled at the 2003 Geneva motor show, the Chrysler Sebring’s overall surfacing and details reflect the Chrysler brand’s four design attributes: expressive, refined, athletic and passionate.

From the front, the Chrysler Sebring features the distinctive face of the Chrysler brand, with the Chrysler signature grille, a uniquely sculpted hood that showcase the Chrysler winged badge, large quad headlamps and available foglamps. Sebring’s long hood profile, chrome beltline molding and long roofline emulate a five-door appearance from the side. High-gloss black appliqués on the B-pillars lengthen Sebring’s greenhouse. Black quarter window appliqués straddle both rear doors and the C-pillar to complete the effect. Sculpted character lines run along the body, accentuating as well as form, protecting the doors from parking lot dents. Chrome exterior door handles and available chrome-clad 18in. wheels give Sebring Limited an elevated level of style and sophistication. The all-new Sebring’s expressive character continues at the rear where wide taillamps are integrated into both the rear quarter panels and extend into the deck lid for visual impact. Just below the rear bumper are two, chrome tipped exhaust pipes. To make the enjoyment of your ride and experience even more satisfying is the use of advanced structural technologies and sound-deadening materials to form a safe, solid structure and minimize noise, vibration and ride harshness. I really felt a difference while driving the all-new Sebring as opposed to the coupe and convertible I drove last year. Sebring has among the highest combined percentages of high-strength and ultra-high-strength, hot-stamped steel among production-volume vehicles on U.S. roads today. This technology has given Sebring a higher weight-to-strength ratio of high-strength steel reducing Sebring’s overall weight, while also developing a safety gage that keeps occupants safe. In addition, Sebring also features dual-phase steel in the rear rails, tunnel reinforcement and sills. Dual-phase steel allows these components to handle great loads than conventional steels, which helps them manage impact energy more effectively. The all-new Sebring’s use of structural adhesives is world-class. Components joined with new structural adhesives improve stiffness and impact energy management compared with other joining methods such as spot welding and laser welding. Tougher, more elastic adhesives add strength to Sebring’s joints during an impact. The stronger joints create a more rigid structure and minimize noise, vibration and harshness in the passenger compartment, giving the Sebring more body stiffness, which contributes to its excellent ride quality, comfort and interior quietness. Finally, the Sebring also benefits from extensive application of pumpable and moldable sealers in the upper body to reduce noise, vibration and harshness characteristics. Sebring’s doors are triple sealed to reduce noise and a continuous, one-piece channel-type weather strip mount in a three-piece roll-formed channel in the upper door frames seals both sides of the windows to prevent wind noise and water leaks. Also benefiting from the advanced use of steel and structural adhesives is the performance of the Sebring. You have a choice of three engines, a 2.4 liter DOHC, inline 4-cylinder making 173hp and 166.b.ft. of torque and returning 24mpg/city and 32mpg/highway, a 2.7 liter DOHC V6 making 189hp and 191lb.ft. of torque and can operate with either unleaded regular or E-85 ethanol. The Limited model that I tested comes with the high-output, 3.5 liter DOHC V6 engine that makes 235hp and 232lb.ft. of torque for robust launches and easy passing on the highway. The first two engines are mated to a four-speed automatic while the 3.5 liter V6 gets a new 6-speed transaxle that has minimized torque-steer at launch. The fully independent suspension system gives the new Sebring excellent handling ability and a very comfortable ride over poorly paved surfaces. Up front are MacPherson struts, coil spring over gas-charged shocks and a stabilizer bar. The rear features a multi-link setup with coil springs, link-type stabilizer bar, gas-charged shocks in an isolated rear suspension cradle. Riding on 18X7in. aluminum wheels wrapped with performance tires further enhances the performance handling and the compliant ride. Guiding the Sebring is a new speed-proportional, power rack & pinion steering system with a firmer feel and excellent feedback from the road. Quickly stopping the Sebring Limited are big, four-wheel disc brakes. Up front are 11.5in. vented discs and 10.3in. solid discs in the rear. The Sebring Limited comes standard with ABS, but Traction Control and Electronic Stability Program are options across the model lineup. I would have liked to see all three standard to further enhance safety for all concerned. As far as performance and ride quality goes, the Sebring is miles ahead of last year’s version, and certainly expected from Chrysler who must produce world-class automobiles to compete effectively in today’s mid-size segment. That is also in evidence inside the all-new Sebring and it is a very welcome sight. The same elegance found in the Sebring’s exterior styling also runs through the vehicle’s interior, which features a modern, clean appearance with intense focus on quality, detail and execution. Getting into the roomy cabin is easy with wide-opening doors and a low step-in. The first thing you’ll notice is the dashboard which is inspired by the Chrysler uplifted winged badge motif that is finished in soft-to-the-touch material. You’ll also notice the rich grains and selective gloss levels on other interior surfaces. The instrument panel features a Pebble grain, which is applied to the top cover, top pad, passenger bezel and cluster bezel for a uniform look. The Sebring Limited features an exclusive two-tone Cream and Pebble Beige interior with leather seats. The Limited is also available with upscale accent materials and finishes that includes Tortoise Shell, satin silver, alloy silver and chrome placed on the dashboard and door trim. The center stack features a Chrysler signature analog clock, which is surrounded by dual heating and air conditioning vents. A large opening provides room for either the standard AM-FM-CD radio or the optional cutting-edge MyGIG Multimedia Navigation/Audio/Entertainment/Communications system. The Sebring’s center floor console features dual storage bins and a sliding armrest that moves 3in. to provide a comfortable driving position for all drivers. The standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel also benefits different types of drivers. All of Sebring’s doors include door map pocket inserts. The rear doors add a bottle holder for added convenience. The back of the driver’s seat features a pocket for storing maps, papers or magazines. Standard 60/40 fold-flat rear seats make room for more gear, and an available fold-flat passenger seat creates a table-like surface to enhance the versatility of Sebring’s interior. The larger interior of the all-new Sebring adds more comfort up front as there is 2.5in. more headroom, 1.2in. more shoulder room and 1in. more hip room in the front seats. Luggage capacity is a generous 13.6cu.ft. Standard equipment in the Limited includes power windows/door locks with front express up/down, keyless entry, illuminated entry, dual map lamps with theater dimming, cruise-control, power trunklid release, rear window defogger, 8-way power driver’s seat, automatic climate control, AM-FM-CD/MP3 stereo with 6-Boston Acoustics speakers, Driver Information Screen with trip computer, tire pressure, outside temperature and compass heading readout, power-remote, heated, folding side mirrors, self-dimming rearview mirror, dual sun visors with illumination, electroluminescent instrument cluster, leather wrapped shift knob and steering wheel with audio control buttons, rear grab handles, thick carpeting with front/rear floor mats, and rear pull-down center armrest with dual cupholders. Standard safety features include advanced multistage front airbags, supplemental front seat side airbags, supplemental side curtain front and rear airbags, 5-three point safety belts with pretensioners/load limiters up front, steel beams in each door, front/rear crumple zones, rear door protection locks, LATCH-ready child seat anchor system and a security alarm. Chrysler is entering the most competitive segment in the industry, ‘mid-size, near-luxury performance sedan. The all-new Sebring Limited has all the goodies that consumers are looking for and time will tell how well the sedan-buying consumer welcomes another mid-size sedan. ALL NEW 2007 CHRYSLER SEBRING LIMTED “A NEW HEAD TURNING SEDAN”   COPYRIGHT:2007:HARVEY SCHWARTZ – EDITOR, AUTOMOTIVE ADDICTS   Price MSRP: $27,515 Invoice: $25,309 Type: Midsize Sedan Where Built: United States EPA Class: Midsize Cars Dimensions Exterior Length: 190.6 in. Width: 71.2 in. Height: 59 in. Wheel Base: 108.9 in. Curb Weight: 3287 lbs. Interior Front Head Room: 40.1 in. Front Hip Room: 53.5 in. Front Shoulder Room: 56.4 in. Rear Head Room: 38.4 in. Rear Shoulder Room: 56.4 in. Rear Hip Room: 53.2 in. Front Leg Room: 42.4 in. Rear Leg Room: 37.6 in. Luggage Capacity: 13.6 cu. ft. Maximum Seating: 5 Performance Data Performance Base Number of Cylinders: 6 Base Engine Size: 3.5 liters Base Engine Type: V6 Maximum Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs. Drive Type: AWD Turning Circle: 36.5 ft. Fuel Data Fuel Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gal. EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway) Range in Miles: (City/Highway)

FROM CHRYSLER: CLICK HERE 

INTRODUCING THE BEST WARRANTY COVERAGE IN THE BUSINESS.

The Chrysler Lifetime Powertrain Limited Warranty is the first of its kind to be offered by any automaker. Ever. Because with this warranty, you’re covered, and it lasts as long as you own your vehicle.

OUR LIFETIME POWERTRAIN LIMITED WARRANTY IS THE ICING.

OUR VEHICLES ARE THE CAKE.

The big news is that this powertrain limited warranty applies to the vast majority of our great new Chrysler Vehicles.* If you ever dreamed about cruising around town in the unmistakable Chrysler 300, relax. You won’t be left stranded by a short-term powertrain warranty.

THE NEXT STEP IS SIMPLE. GET TO YOUR CHRYSLER DEALER TODAY.

The only difficult decision you have to make is picking which great vehicle you want. For more information, visit your local dealer.

But forever does have a few catches. The lifetime warranty only applies to the initial owner of the car and can’t be transferred, nor does it apply to high-performance SRT or fuel-sipping diesel vehicles. Plus, to keep the warranty current, a dealership must inspect the car every five years of the car’s life.

Chrysler says the warranty “provides worry-free ownership,” but it also shows the automaker’s apparent confidence in their product reliability.

 A “lifetime” warranty may seem like a long commitment but Kia, Hyundai, and Mitsubishi all already offer ten-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranties. The Chrysler Lifetime Powertrain Warranty only exceeds that if the first owner keeps their Chrysler for over 100,000 miles. For customers who sell their cars after fewer than three years or 36,000 miles, the new warranty offers no benefits.

The all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen Hemi AWD Limited is a little late to the sport utility party but comes with a full plate and then some.

The all-new Aspen Hemi AWD Limited is Chrysler signature design, power, performance, interior comfort and refinements, plus the latest in safety and security.

With a unique and distinctive design, the all-new Aspen Hemi AWD Limited is the 300C of the premium sport utility segment.

Chrysler Aspen’s chromed grille-the face of Chrysler-is signature Chrysler 300, inspired by the memorable V-10 powered Chrysler Chronos concept car that deputed at Detroit in 1998. Chrysler wings flow seamlessly into the grille header and contain the gold seat of the brand, providing a proud and instantly recognizable design cue. The sculpted hood is taken from the Chrysler Crossfire luxury two-door coupe. The Aspens’ front and rear fenders, rear doors, and rear quarter panels feature clean, precise angles, creating a seamless profile. The extreme rake of the windshield pillars ensure a low co-efficient of drag and less wind noise as it cuts through the air at speed. Chromed accents on bodyside moldings, door handles, side mirrors, belt molding and roof rack, as well as the available 20X9in chromed wheels, add premium panache. Power comes from a standard, next-generation 4.7 liter Magnum, SOHC, V8 engine that generates 235hp and 300lb.ft. of torque. Opting for the HEMI V8 increases power to 335hp and 370lb.ft. of torque, enabling the Aspen to easily get around slower moving city traffic, and quickly merge into fast-flowing highway traffic. The Hemi V8 also features Chrysler’s Multi-Displacement System that seamlessly alternates between four-cylinder mode when power is needed and V8 mode when more power is in demand. Both engines are mated to Chrysler’s powerful and smooth-shifting 5-speed automatic transmission found on all Hemi V8 powered Chrysler and Dodge vehicles. Rear-wheel-drive is standard. A two-speed transfer case is standard with AWD models features an all-wheel-drive mode and four-wheel-drive ‘high’ and ‘low’ modes (torque split= 48/52% front/rear. A tow/haul button at the end of the column-mounted shifter provides crisp shifts and reduces gear search by holding the lower gear longer, plus the system also selects a lower gear under downhill conditions. The Aspen is one tough sport utility thanks to a fully-boxed hydroformed frame and an independent suspension featuring upper and lower ‘A’ arms, torsion bars, gas-charged monotube shocks, and a stabilizer bar. The rear suspension features a ‘live-axle’, link coil with Watt’s linkage, gas-charged monotube shocks, and stabilizer bar. This setup gives the Aspen ‘best-in-class’ towing capability (8,950lbs.) and durability. The standard power rack & pinion system enables the Aspen to sharply respond to your inputs around town, but the Aspen tended to drift a little at high-speeds on the highway. My test Aspen had 3,500mi. logged in and might have needed a wheel alignment. Quickly and safely slowing the all-new Aspen down from speed are big, power-assisted, steel disc brakes. Up front are big 13.2in. vented discs clamped with dual-piston calipers and even bigger 13.8in. solid discs in the rear clamped with single-piston calipers. Standard ABS and Brake Assist further enhanced control and power during emergency stops. Further keeping you in control of the direction and speed of the Aspen during severe maneuvers is standard Electronic Stability Control and Electronic Roll Mitigation. While the Aspen betters the Lincoln Navigators 300hp V8, it can’t match the new Cadillac Escalade’s 400hp but on the inside is where the Chrysler parts company with the others. Chrysler signature luxury is found inside the Aspen . The roomy interior is well appointed such as leather appointed and power-adjustable front bucket seats with suede inserts. Tasteful use of wood and brushed aluminum trim gives the interior a high-class look. All of the leather surfaces on the dashboard and door trim pieces are soft backed leather that is so refreshing to the touch. This feature further enhances the Aspen ‘s luxury status. The tilting, leather wrapped steering wheel feels great in my hands and features buttons for the cruise-control and audio system. My fully-loaded Aspen came with a fantastic sounding Alpine audio surround-sound system with 368-watts and 8-Alpine speakers, including an in-dash 6-CD changer. Very impressive yet again. The second and third row seating can be configured several ways. The Aspen comes standard with 2/3/2 seating, and 2/3/3 and 2/2/3 seating arrangements optional. Lowering and raising the 2 nd and 3 rd . row seats is easy but the only drawback in the Aspen is the fact that my 2 nd . row bench seat had no bottom rail to slide back and forth like the competition. Even the seatback could be adjusted. The dashboard is easy to reach with all important futures just a turn of a dial or a push of a button. The Chrysler analog clock is a welcome addition and adds another luxury touch. The beautiful instrument cluster is signature Chrysler design with scripted numbers and letters with black needles against a silver background. Visibility is excellent from any seating position. With the 3 rd row folded the Aspen has ‘best-in-class’ cargo capacity of 68.4cu.ft. One feature that the Aspen has that I haven’t seen yet is that the entire interior is bathed in white LED light. Tiny LED spot lights replace the dual map lamps, in the footwells, headliner and rear lift-door. It is something special as it brings a refreshing change from the incandescent lighting with a yellow cast. Standard features, not mentioned above, in the Aspen Limited include power windows/door locks with front up/down express, 115-volt rear power plug, remote keyless entry, rear park assist, power liftgate, AC, rear AC with heater, AM-FM stereo with CD and four speakers, self-dimming/heated/power remote side mirrors, electrochromic self-dimming rearview mirror, overhead console, roof rack, garage door opener, variable intermittent wipers/washers, rear variable intermittent wiper/washer/defroster, grab handles at each passenger door, and thick-pile carpeting. My test Aspen came with these options: heated front seats, power front seats with 2-person memory, power adjustable pedals, dual-zone climate control, Driver Information Computer, Alpine Audio System, laminated front and rear door glass, premium front/rear floor mats, Chrysler Navigation System, DVD rear entertainment system, remote start and 20X9in. chrome wheels and tires. A power sunroof is also an option. Standard safety features include advanced multi-stage front airbag system, child seat anchor system, constant force retractors, energy-absorbing steering column, electronic roll mitigation, electronic stability control, park-sense rear back-up system, seatbelt pretensioners, side-curtain airbags, side-impact beams, front/rear crush zones and a tire monitoring system. Sales of sport utility vehicles has declined for the past two years but sales of premium luxury models have actually increased as price conscience consumers choose smaller models and the new, crossover models. Consumers not concerned with price are still purchasing large sport utilities and the all-new 2007 Chrysler Aspen Limited should get its share of the pie. The base price for an Aspen Limited 4X2 is just $33,685.00 and my nicely loaded 4X4 Aspen Limited was stickered at just $43,230.00. ALL NEW 2007 CHRYSLER ASPEN HEMI AWD LIMITED “BETTER LATE THAN NEVER”   COPYRIGHT:2007:HARVEY SCHWARTZ – EDITOR, AUTOMOTIVE ADDICTS   Price MSRP: $33,810 Invoice: $30,926 Type: Large SUV Where Built: United States EPA Class: Sport Utility Vehicles Dimensions Exterior Length: 202.1 in. Width: 76 in. Height: 73.6 in. Wheel Base: 119.2 in. Ground Clearance: 6.9 in. Curb Weight: 5043 lbs. Gross Weight: 6700 lbs. Interior Front Head Room: 40.8 in. Front Hip Room: 58.8 in. Front Shoulder Room: 59.6 in. Rear Head Room: 39.2 in. Rear Shoulder Room: 59.6 in. Rear Hip Room: 57.2 in. Front Leg Room: 41.4 in. Rear Leg Room: 37.4 in. Luggage Capacity: 20.1 cu. ft. Maximum Cargo Capacity: 102 cu. ft. Maximum Seating: 8 Performance Data Performance Base Number of Cylinders: 8 Base Engine Size: 4.7 liters Base Engine Type: V8 Horsepower: 235 hp Max Horsepower: 4600 rpm Torque: 300 ft-lbs. Max Torque: 3600 rpm Maximum Payload: 1680 lbs. Maximum Towing Capacity: 8750 lbs. Drive Type: 4WD Turning Circle: 37 ft. Fuel Data Fuel Fuel Tank Capacity: 27 gal. EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway) Automatic: : 14 mpg / 18 mpg Range in Miles: (City/Highway) Automatic: 378 mi. / 486 mi.

Just yesterday morning the board of management at DaimlerChrysler announced approval for the sale of Chrysler Group. This coming in now is the big surprise that some didn’t really put all together. In thinking that the buyer would be Magna International, everyone was really sure that they all everything in place for the purchase and would go forward with it.

To our surprise