Chrysler Brand Survey Reveals the Hard and Soft Truth about Convertible Driving

- Drivers encouraged to drop their tops - convertible tops that is - as temperatures rise

- Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the first convertible to offer three automatically latching tops, including a retractable hard top

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., May 17 -- As temperatures heat up across the country, many Americans are working to get their "soft" bodies back in shape. Between lunges, crunches and sit-ups, the Chrysler brand discovered consumers want to firm up more than just their legs, arms and stomachs this summer. They also want to firm up their tops - their convertible tops that is. In fact, a recent Chrysler brand survey revealed 62 percent of Americans want hard convertible tops(1).

While a majority of consumers prefer "hard" bodies and hard convertible tops, the survey also revealed a softer side of America. Here's the hard truth about the softer side:

   - Get the Ice Cream Scoop: More Americans prefer the soft serve version
     of the perfect summer treat - ice cream - compared to the hard, hand-
     packed option (50 percent to 43 percent).
   - Paperback Preference: Nearly seven out of 10 consumers (69 percent)
     would rather have a soft, paperback book over a hard cover novel when
     they're reading at the beach or on a summer road trip.
   - Soft Rock Soothes: The Beach Boys, Steppenwolf, Lynard Skynard and
     other classic soft rock artists were identified by Americans for making
     some of the best convertible driving songs.
   - Raise the "Soft Top" Roof: Even with the hard top option, one in three
     Americans (33 percent) still prefer soft convertible tops. With a top
     for everyone, the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the
     first convertible to offer three automatically latching top options:
     vinyl, cloth and a body-color painted steel retractable hard top.

"No matter where you live, there's just something special about driving a convertible. It's exhilarating - windows down, hair blowing in the wind," said David Rooney, Director - Chrysler Marketing & Global Communications. "Regardless of whether you prefer the hard or soft top option on the all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible, this summer is the perfect time to have fun cruising around town in the open air."

No matter if you are a first time convertible driver, planning to buy a new convertible or thinking about renting one, all convertible drivers and passengers should be familiar with a few universal driving tips that apply to all convertibles:

   - Lock Your Valuables: Don't leave important documents or valuables in
     plain site when parking any vehicle; if you're in a convertible and
     parking with the top down, put valuable items in a locking glove box to
     keep them safe.
   - Sing, Sing, Sing: Top-down fun and good music go hand in hand  ...  but
     think about what you're blasting since everyone around you can hear
     your music choices.
   - Protect Your Pet: Allow pets time to adjust to the convertible ride if
     they're not used to riding with the top down; help acclimate your
     canine companions by taking them on short trips, at low speeds and
     eventually work your way up to cruising full speed once your pet has
     had time to adjust.
   - Hair Raising Experience: Driving with the top down can add extra volume
     to your usual hair style. Take a quick peak in the mirror after
     arriving at your destination to make sure the extra volume is
     enhancing - not detracting - from your appearance.
   - Soak Up the Sun: Top down driving is a great way to get your daily dose
     of Vitamin D, but don't forget to apply sunscreen if you plan on being
     in the sun for an extended period of time. The American Academy of
     Dermatologists recommends wearing sunscreen every day if you plan on
     being in the sun for more than 20 minutes.