When the third generation Chrysler Sebring debuted for the 2007 model year, we felt the styling was uninspired and looked more like something created from a committee vote, rather than the pen of a hot designer.? For 2010, the exterior is refreshed, but it is still not that pretty.

The modernized interior is efficient and comfortable but certainly not award winning.? The controls are simple and user-friendly.? Our test car did have the optional ($1,695) Navigation and Sound Group that added a touch navigation system with 6.5-inch screen display, 30GB hard drive and media center.? The system plugs into the center stack in place of the standard audio system and provides a complete audio system with all the normal choices and the capacity to store 4,250 songs from your personal collection. ?The system also includes Chrysler?s Uconnect phone system with Voice Command and the Sirius Traffic Service.? Overall, the system is a very good value.

The 2010 Sebring comes in two flavors, Touring and Limited, with the Touring version price starting at $20,860, including the destination charge.? The Limited is $22,855 and adds a bunch of convenience and comfort features.? Both models are powered by an efficient 173-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a four-speed automatic transmission.? The four-cylinder gets an EPA rating of 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.? We averaged 25.3 mpg in our test car with this same engine.

An HO V-6 option package on the Limited model adds a 235-hp, 3.5-liter V-6, 18-inch aluminum wheels, a six-speed AutoStick? automatic transmission, dual exhaust and touring suspension for $2,050.

The four-cylinder Sebring Limited sedan has lackluster performance, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 10.2 seconds. ?The V-6 model is significantly better at 8.0 seconds.? Other than that, it is smooth and comfortable to drive in everyday conditions, but it?s not designed for racing up a mountain road.

This is not a car for trying impressing neighbors or to drive for the fun of it.? This is a car for someone looking for reliable, safe, basic transportation, and for that, the Chrysler Sebring sedan is a good value.

We?re looking forward to seeing what the Chrysler?s new Italian management has planned as a replacement when the current model is replaced in 2011.

[Rating:5/10]