Chrysler Sebring

The controversial 2007 redesign ruined the graceful styling of the car, but ushered in a number of improvements. However, those improvements still didn't make this a good choice -- although better crash test scores are among them. With its taller roofline, interior access is easier and once inside you'll find the controls are very straightforward. However, the passenger compartment is let down by an abundance of hard plastics, along with poor fit and finish. Ride and handling also leave much to be desired.

Playing in one of the most competitive segments of the automotive marketplace, the Chrysler Sebring is pitted against some of the best cars offered--period. Though handsomely styled for most of its tenure, the long-running Chrysler Sebring was never a very good car. It is perhaps best thought of as a low-rent commodity car than an object of desire. Compared to the models it is up against, the Chrysler lacks agility, admits too much road noise, and has a stiff, unsettled ride. In pre-2007 models, a Poor IIHS side-crash score in tests without side airbags is another negative. The convertible suffers from a lot of body shake, although it does offer a usable rear seat ' making it the only soft-top car to do so during its lifetime.