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:

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  loven it - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By blondknight - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Very fast for a 4 door. Great on fuel if you keep your foot out of the pedal. price to fun ratio is high as well.

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  very disappointing - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Resentful - October 15 - 2:00 am

  Turning radius is very wide. it takes at least three+ lanes to make a u turn. I have had to replace brakes once a year and the car goes through tires even faster. This car has been nothing but a pain.

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  LOVE THIS CAR! - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By S. Williams - October 13 - 2:00 am

  I bought this silver car when it was a year old with 12,000 mi. on it it now has 92,000 miles and runs really well. No problems! Regular maintainence, new tires and recently new frnt breaks is all Ive put into it. I dont know why some are trouble-free and some arent, but I feel lucky to have it. Its big enough for me to feel safe, and sleek enough to be stylin! I get compliments on it all the time and people always think its worth more than it is. I agree with the other review that 96 is the best looking of all the styles.

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  2003 LXI Coupe by Eric - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Eric from Florida - October 13 - 2:00 am

  The outside styling compares to vehicles in the 30-50k range, a distinctive Mercedes touch. The (optional) infinity stereo rivals some premium after market stereos with exceptional sound. Unusual quiteness in the cabin, when all windows are up it is extremely quiet. The engine is also quiet unless pushed. Speaking of the engine, very fast and felt faster than a 200 h.p. vehicle, yet mileage doesnt seem to be effected holding to a good 30 mpg on the highway. Other great features: total of 5 cup holders, auto dimming rearview mirror, large trunk, spacious interior and fun to drive.

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  Dads toy - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Big Phil - October 12 - 2:00 am

  My third chrysler convert. 2 Lebarons {1989 and 1992} Best by far but I do miss the Turbo. Mine is a Limited with all options . I bought it as a one owner trade in at my local dealer. It is used as a cruiser only 4000 to 5000 miles a season . Great looks , good performance , much fun to drive .

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  Dont Buy - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Kalypsoly - October 10 - 2:00 am

  My transmission went out at 50,000. There was such a waiting list for chrysler transmission, that I would have had to wait for 10 months to get one. The Dodge dealership even told me there shoudl have been a recall on the transmission. Ive had many brake problems, and my tires, which are brand new, already need replaced. Everytime I take it in for an oil change they suggest I flush my transmission fluid...everytime. When I wash my car, the water leaks through the seals TERRIBLY. I take great time to properly take care of my seals too.

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  sebring style - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By tony_dano - October 7 - 2:00 am

  I love the sexy interior design and fairly good acceleration and handling. Dont like the stiff ride and ground clerance.

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  great car - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
  By slider2717 - October 5 - 2:00 am

  I have 85,000 miles and no problems. The Mitsu V6 runs like a champ. The only item that failed on the car is the Infinity CD player and a speaker. The car is 5 years old and I still get people asking what kind of car this is. No complaints whatsoever. Car looks great and runs great!

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  Love it! - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Raquel - October 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had it 3 yrs. no problems at all.When I first saw it, I thougt, WOW! I dont have any regrets at all. I highly recommend it.

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  Chrysler Sebring LXI DISSATISFACTON - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lisa Shipley - October 5 - 2:00 am

  I have had a very bad experience with my brand new 2001 Sebring LXI. Following issues-faulty brakes, broken sunroof, malfunctioning alarm, broken glove compartment, car shaking and stalling upon start, defective wheel laquer causing flat tires, torn leather, and some minor issues. Not only were several days off from work needed, but Chrysler does not provide loaner cars to customers. I contacted a Lemon law attorney because I still have a broken sunroof that has still not been repaired after three attempts. Also, I repeatedly am getting flat tires due to the defective wheel laquer on my vehicle. I would not recommend this vehicle.