Chrysler Sebring to Change Name with New Facelift

Initially slated to be discontinued, Chrysler Sebring will live on. Only that it will continue to exist under a different name that will come into effect once the parent manufacturer rolls out the facelifted version. Although it was only a rumor, Sergio Marchionne, now CEO of both Chrysler and Fiat, confirmed that the Sebring will get a new name when the company introduces the facelifted model.

“We’ve rolled up our sleeves and have torn apart that architecture. You’ll see a completely different animal,” Marchionne was quoted as saying by the Detroit Free Press. “We’re having a discussion about what name this animal should have. The jury is still out."

Only a few details are available at this point but it appears that Dodge Avenger, the other rebadged Chrysler Sebring, will continue "as is", mostly because sales are still up.

The facelifted Sebring is expected to be released sometime in 2011, but Chrysler is yet to confirm this. However, only a few aspects of the car will actually get to be improved, including handling and comfort and probably some exterior styling components.

The 2010 Sebring is offered with two engines, a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve engine that develops 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5-liter SOHC 24-valve configuration that puts out 235 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque.

Feature highlights include low-risk deployment airbags, seat-mount side airbags, side-curtain airbags, ESC with all-speed traction control and driver and front-passenger active head restraints, LED instrument cluster with tachometer, LED interior lighting for front and rear seats and SIRIUS satellite radio.