was 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

levels, and the power rack-and-pinion steering was precise enough to lend

confidence to quick maneuvers.

But ride quality is really this convertible's dynamic strong suit, which

makes sense to us, given the car's delightful cruising quotient.

Our first encounter with the Sebring JXi was last autumn, when the leaves

were just beginning to turn, and we headed straight for roads less traveled.

There's nothing quite so satisfying as twisting along tree-lined country

roads with the top down, and this is a perfect car for enjoying the bucolic

bliss of the rural countryside.

Visibility in all directions is unimpeded, and the windshield design

helps reduce wind buffeting.