Overview & Reviews

The Chrysler Sebring was one of only a handful of reasonably priced midsize vehicles to be offered as both a sedan and a convertible. There were some Sebring highlights over the years, including the fun-in-the-sun convertible and the second-generation coupe, which shared a platform with the Mitsubishi Eclipse. But overall, the Sebring was typically outclassed by other models in terms of refinement and performance.

The Sebring did receive a major update for 2011, but with it also came a name change; it's now known as the Chrysler 200.

Most Recent Chrysler Sebring
The most-recent, third-generation Chrysler Sebring was introduced as a sedan for 2007 and convertible for '08. Production lasted until 2010. After that, Chrysler made major updates and renamed the car the Chrysler 200.

Both Sebring body styles were available in LX, Touring and Limited trims, while the convertible could be had with either a traditional soft-top design or a retractable hardtop. Base Sebrings started out reasonably well-equipped with full power accessories, front side-impact and full-length head curtain airbags, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a six-CD changer and, on the convertible, a power vinyl top (cloth was optional). Touring models got 17-inch alloy wheels and a lengthier options list, while the top-of-the-line Limited featured leather trim, automatic climate control and a premium audio system. Options included a hard-drive navigation/audio system.

Stability control was standard on the Touring and Limited trims until 2010, when it strangely was added to the options list. Meanwhile, antilock brakes were optional on the base LX. These items were standard on almost every competitor, and we highly recommend making sure a used Sebring is equipped with these essential safety features.

Standard on most Sebrings was a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine rated for 173 horsepower. A four-speed automatic transmission routed power to the front wheels. Until 2010, a 2.7-liter V6 good for 189 hp was optional on the Sebring Touring sedan and standard on Sebring Touring and Limited convertibles. Available on Limited models only was a 235-hp 3.5-liter V6 backed by a more sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission. Prior to 2010, all-wheel drive was also available with the 3.5-liter V6, though fuel economy suffered.

In reviews, we found the third-generation Sebring sedan to be about as bad as it got in the midsize segment. It was below average in most respects, ranking far behind segment leaders. The ride quality was comfortable enough, but braking and handling were well below average. The base four-cylinder was adequately powerful and fuel efficient, but it was unrefined, while the optional V6 was underpowered and inefficient. Cabin design was ergonomically sound, but the quality of the interior plastics was poor for this price range. These attributes apply to the convertible as well, but there's some inherent desirability to the convertible since there were fewer competing convertible models.

Previous Chrysler Sebring Models
In 2001 Chrysler introduced the second-generation Sebring sedan and reworked coupes and convertibles powered by updated engines and transmissions. The coupe shared a platform with Mitsubishi's Eclipse. At the top of the heap was a 3.0-liter V6 cranking out 200 hp. It was initially available only in the LXi coupe. Standard in convertibles and LXi sedans was the Chrysler-built 2.7-liter V6 rated at 200 hp. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder was also available. In early reviews we praised the Sebring for its good looks, solid performance, competitive pricing and wide range of body styles.

Minor updates followed in successive years, and Chrysler shuffled the trim levels on a nearly annual basis: The familiar Sebring LX and LXi models ultimately gave way to GTC, TSi, Touring and Limited trim levels. Note that the Sebring coupe was discontinued after the 2005 model year, while the Sebring convertible and sedan continued through 2006.

As time went by, the second-generation Chrysler Sebring became increasingly uncompetitive. In later tests, we found that its drivetrains were unrefined; its ride quality was harsh (particularly in the sedan); and its build and interior materials quality were well below average. Though it wouldn't hurt for used-car shoppers to take a look at the Sebring -- especially those interested in the model-year range of the late '90s to early 2000s -- it's probably wise to consider other options before making a final decision.

The original Sebring was launched in 1995 as Chrysler's new midsize coupe. Mechanically, it was related to the Mitsubishi Galant of the same period. Available in LX or LXi trim, the Sebring coupe came with a 163-hp, 2.5-liter V6 and a standard four-speed automatic. At the time, the vehicle's best attributes were its sporty and purposeful exterior styling and roomy (for a coupe) interior. Despite a steeply raked windshield and roof line, headroom fore and aft was adequate even for adults, and the trunk impressed us with its size. The biggest downside was the V6's marginal performance.

The first-generation Chrysler Sebring convertible debuted a year later. However, this model was based on Chrysler's own platform, which was related to the Breeze/Cirrus/Stratus compacts. At the time the car brought class, dignity and a bit of luxury to this otherwise whimsical segment, and it became quite successful.

User Reviews:

• 

  Chrysler is Up and Coming - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Hairlady - December 1 - 2:00 am

  After driving Ford for several years, my husband and I decided on a Chrysler product. And to find Chrysler has out done the others in many ways. Other items that cost extra on other cars, come standard on the Chrysler. And not only fun to drive, the 2004 Sebring LXI is a very comfortable car, with the V6 it has enough get up, one would think it had 8 cylinders under that hood.

• 

  BEST CAR ON ROAD - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By BIKERONE - November 25 - 10:00 am

  FUN TO DRIVE, MILEAGE IS GREAT VERY COMFORTABLE, GREAT LOOKING CAR.

• 

  Love it !! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By GoldfingerTexas - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Have 55,000 miles on it no problems. Just changed fron brake pads myself for 26.00. Has a couple of rattles in the dash when its cold ouside. It gets 25 mpg with a V-6 which is great for a heavy car. It was a major upgrade from my 91 Lebaron conv. LQQks cool too!

• 

  2003 Sebring conv. - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By hotnastyboy - November 22 - 2:00 am

  very exellent vehicle. I had a 1998 chrysler sebring coupe that was a piece of junk, that was also bought brand new from the dealer. This new style and year has not given me a problem. I love the vehicle. The performance is great. I commute 120 miles a day 4 days a week in this vehicle and there has not been any problems with it on the freeway.

• 

  The Best - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jeanie - November 8 - 2:00 am

  I own this vehicle for almost a year, I have 2003 model I love it wouldnt trade it for the world. Great on gas 10.00 every two weeks if that. Drives like a BMW if not better.

• 

  Still love it - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By freeohio - November 7 - 2:00 am

  I have had my car for 2 years and 5 months and I still love it. Overall I have been very satisfied with my car. I had to have the stereo replaced when the car was a year old, but the dealer was fast and courteous about replacing it. The only things I have a problem with is the cupholder location, (I accidentally turn the cd player on when I use the cupholder!) And the front seats are hard to move for people getting in and out of the back seat. Other than that I still love it 2 years later!

• 

  Sebring convertible - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Herman - November 6 - 2:00 am

  A very fun car to drive. I have a new Caddi and a Tundra PU and when I go most anywhere the convertible is my choice of transportation. The only problem experienced is the heater blower fan needing repair.

• 

  i have 2006 coverablie love when i get to put t - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By susan daley - November 3 - 9:02 pm

  best car ever never gave me anyproblems

• 

  2001Sebring LXI - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By MassMan - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Was able to buy it for about $100 less than TMV in 3/01, beginning of recession. Two problems with build quality: (i)the trunk leaked and it took them two tries to fix it (now its fine) and the rear window defroster broke (they fixed it right the first time). Since then, it is a lot of fun to drive! Powerful and grips the road very well. Big enough for three kids in back. 4-disc CD player works great. Blasting music with the top down, whether in traffic or on the open highway is still a thrill (Im 46). I look so happy that people talk to me at stop lights. Very glad to have it, recommend it highly.

• 

  I love my car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Sheila Davis - October 19 - 2:00 am

  This is my first Crysler. I love the roomy interior and the looks of the car over all. For the price it is as sharp as the 50K and up cars. It has pleanty of get up and go. I will look at them first when I purchase my next car. I have seen many 98 models in my area and they still look as good as mine. I am pleased with this car.