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Chrysler officials say they used the Camaro convertible as a benchmark in designing the Sebring convertible and that it surpasses that car in a couple of key areas. For example, they say rear legroom, at 35.2 ins., is 8 ins. more than the Camaro's, and trunk room, at 11.3 cu.-ft., is 4 cu.-ft. greater than Camaro's.

Among the car's key features: front seat belts are integrated into the seats, eliminating obtrusive mounts, and the power retractable top has a full glass backlight.

Pricing hasn't been announced, but the car is expected to ring in at about $20,000, including standard dual air bags.

Responding to media criticism that the car's base engine is a 4-cyl. rather than V-6, Chrysler President Robert A. Lutz says that "We may not have the best-performing, best-handling or most luxurious convertible on the road, but it has the most value for the price." The 4-cyl., Chrysler executives say, is a better engine than the V-6 used on the current LeBaron convertible.