Breeze are a little bigger than their direct competitors at the small end

of the mid-size segment, as well as slightly roomier yet competitively

priced. The Stratus has a roominess-to-price ratio that has earned positive

ratings on a number of best-buy and best-value lists.

And of course, it represents another design home run for its parent

company. We think these are the best looking cars in their class, bar none.

The Stratus wears a low beltline and expansive glass similar to a Honda.

Of course, the Stratus bears Chrysler's signature cab-forward design, which

pushes the wheels to the far corners of the car, leaving little overhang

in the front and rear. That's how its unique dimensions, aggressive stance

and roomy interior are achieved.

The Stratus comes in two trim levels, the base model (from $15,495,

including destination) and the ES (from $17,180), with a wide selection

of features available on both, plus three engine and two transmission choices.

Our tester was a top-of-the-line ES with a V6 engine.

Introduced as an all-new model in May 1995, the Stratus gets improvements

for 1997 aimed at reducing interior noise and enhancing the vibes from

the audio system through better radio, cassette and CD players. New features

for 1997 include a full center console with storage, a coin holder, rear

cupholders and an armrest. Two new exterior colors, Dark Chestnut and Deep

Amethyst, have also been added to the palette.