By EWAN KENNEDY
13 November 2006

Chrysler's product offensive to Australia continues, with the American company announcing it will definitely bring its new Sebring to Australia. Though classed in the USA as a mid-sized sedan it’s quite a large car by our standards, not quite as big as the Mitsubishi 380 and Toyota Camry/Aurion, but heading in that direction. Like these two Aussie-built cars, the Sebring uses a transverse engine and front-wheel drive.

Interestingly, Chrysler has opted to go for a car that’s not as radical in its shape as some others it builds, however, the Sebring still carries some visual punch. The slightly tamer lines probably make sense in a market segment that traditionally attracts conservative buyers. Conservatism also rules in the decision to make the car as a sedan and not a hatchback.

However, the Sebring's frontal appearance is quite striking thanks to a big grille with cues from the best-selling Chrysler 300C. But the rest of the car, whilst sleek enough in its own right, doesn’t really break any new ground in 21st century auto styling.

Power for the Sebring will be supplied by a choice of three engines when it comes to Australia. At launch, there will be a 2.4-litre petrol and a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel, both four-cylinder units. The really interesting powerplant will be a 2.7-litre petrol engine, arriving here a few months after the rest of the range.

Yet to be announced are details of the luxury levels we will be offered. Safety will be a major feature of the car with all variants getting ESP (electronic stability program), ABS brakes and six airbags, the latter including curtain ‘bags. Not so impressive is the use of rear drum brakes in a car of this size.

We were invited to the USA last week to drive the new Chrysler Sebring, but were unable to attend due to pressure of business surrounding the Sydney motor show. Recent Chryslers have taken a semi-European stance in their steering and handling departments. The local importer tells us the Sebring's chassis dynamics are also aimed in that direction.

We will bring you further information, including prices and a road test of the new Sebring as soon as possible. Chrysler Australia representative Simon Johnson says they can’t be specific about timing at this stage, saying only ‘mid 2007’ as the time Sebring will spring into our downunder market.

Amazingly, this will be the first right-hand drive, mid-size model Chrysler has ever built. We trust other American auto makers will take note of this global attitude from Chrysler and give us some more choices of cars with the steering wheel on the Australian side of the car.