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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  Have lots of fun with this car! - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By nanc-nees - June 30 - 2:00 am

  Hubby & I have thoroughly enjoyed tooling around in this sports car! The front seats are a little hard but it is a sports car but could use a little more cushioning. This year still had no good placement for drinks. That has been fixed since I see. What sold me on the car is that the back seats fold down! This is great for transporting stuff even ladders!

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  Lauren - 1995 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lauren Haynie - June 28 - 2:00 am

  it was a nice car,bumper was rebuilt and had reciepts to back up all of repairs.

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  Piece of Crap - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By George R - June 25 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car new for my wife. She loves it - I hate it. It has 35000 miles on it and this is what we have had to have done: Numerous leaks in the convertible top, 3 sets of front rotors and pads, both door straps, head gasket (!), timing chain and emissions control computer. I have never had a car with so many problems. Still doesnt run right. I take very good care of my cars and this is what we got from Chrysler. I also had a 97 Intrepid ES - great car but then I got a 99 Intrepid ES - piece of crap also. Chrysler, you have a problem!!

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  WOW. I love this GTC - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By robrown - June 24 - 10:00 am

  I really like the new Sebring GTC. I was considering buying a Mustang until I drove the Sebring. It rides better, feels more powerful, and has real rear seating.The gearing for the 5 speed trans is perfect. Good power across the band. The top is really easy to lower and raise. The cover for the top is also very easy to install. I have owned a mustang, corvette, and trans am. I never considered this car until it was offered with a 5 speed.

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  One Happy Driver! - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mtclairmom - June 23 - 2:00 am

  This car is fun to drive and its sleek exterior design was a major deciding factor in purchasing it. The only drawback, which I was fully aware of and I compensate for in operating the vehicle, is the low front end. A strange note: it has a Mitsubishi engine! Nevertheless, I am one very happy Chrysler customer and wouldnt hesitate to purchase another one when the time comes.

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  Sebring convertible - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Herman Carroll - June 19 - 10:00 am

  Fun car. I chose the Sebring convt because of its size. I traded in a 1999 sebring convt. for the 2004. There is a lot of improvements in the new model. The other convt are much too small. I cannot understand why this is the last year for the sebring. I dont understand GM decision for the Oldsmobile either. What do I know?

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  Chrysler Sebring has flaws.... - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Roger Rabbit - June 17 - 2:00 am

  We (my wife and I)feel the car is not a comfortable as we thought it was during the test drive. The seats are hard and the car sits too low for our comfort. The main problem we have had is in the transmission. Outside of the obnoxious clicking noise it makes while shifting (which the shop says is typical for Chryslers) it has hesitated time to time while shifting and accelerating. We had the transmission replaced after a month of ownership, but it still seems to be doing the same thing. I guess its "just the way it is." So, if you want comfort and performance, DO NOT buy this car. If you want looks and style, its the car for you.

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  Not Bad - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By GB - June 14 - 2:00 am

  No problems so far. Runs and looks great. I still love the platinum color on my JXI Limited. My only complaint is the stupid cup holders. Come on! Cant fit my Big Gulp in there.

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  Good car, bad Service - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By xxx - June 12 - 2:00 am

  I bought it at 40k miles, with extended warranty (excellent idea, as it turned out) and I only had very minor problems with the car. However, all dealerships I dealt with were so incompetent, it took a lot of effort each time to have the car fixed (e.g. 3 visits time 3-4 days each to have the sunroof fixed, 3 visits to have the wheel hubs replaced, 4+ visits for an intermittent no-start problem (they replaced a lot of things, but it was a $12 fuel shut-down relay, etc.) If you know a reliable mechanic, buy this car, its fun to drive. Otherwise, stay away from it.

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  Head Turner - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By The Islander - June 11 - 2:00 am

  Five days ago I turned in my 2000 Sebring JXI (which gave me not one bit of trouble) and am now tooling around in a 2004 Limited. With its Brillant Black Crystal Pearl Coat finish & its high shine Chrome Clad wheels it certainly has been turning the heads here in the Sunshine State. I had been very pleased with my previous Sebring but I must say this new 2004 has a better feel all the way around. Handling, ride, looks & if it gives me as many problem free miles as the previous Sebring - well for the money you just cant beat it. Its a fun Florida car & great for taking our "northern" friends out & about.