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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  Going Topless! - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By George. - October 19 - 1:15 pm

  We bought this car in red about two months ago. Its FUN to drive and its economical on gas, getting 32 mpg on long trips over the road. Weve had no trouble at all with it, and we love its styling and hideaway top which is always an attention getter! The engine runs smoothly, quietly and seems vibration free. There are no body shakes or rattles or squeaks that one usually expects to find, even in the most expensive of convertibles. Its power wont win any races, but its very adequate for most situations. We liked this car SO MUCH that we bought a silver one for my wife! Hers is the Touring model convertible with the 2.7 liter V6 motor. Pls. see th

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  Affordable Fun - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ray - October 16 - 7:58 pm

  We bought it last fall with 52K miles. Computer slippery with strong Chrysler retro styling. Roomy, great road trip for two. We read the clubs web site cover to cover. We anticipated all the ankle-biter stuff (the "leaks" from clogged drains, instrument cluster solder joints, suspension fixes, etc.). By learning the root cause of these problems we saved hundreds. Purchase price was low, so we invested in long term things (seals, an original blend Candy Apple Red paint job, some body work, some suspension work). Now we enjoy it. We have done a couple of 1K+ road trips. We have less than 60K on the car now and around 10K invested -- and no car payments. Its 12 yrs old, ready for another 12.

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  My Sebring is perfect - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By SebringIS1337 - October 15 - 6:07 pm

  We have had this car for about 6 or 7 years now and the only things we have had get fixed are two flat tires (damn nails) and a new starter. Other than that is has had oil changes. I have one complaint and that is about the tiny front brakes, they are about the size of a coffee can lid, and this car weighs a ton to slow down. But you can take a turn going so fast and you wont loose traction and it is perfect int the snow, just plows right through the snow. Since it weighs so much you can burn out if you want really easy, just step on the gas a tad and you fly!

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  The car of style - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Eddie - October 11 - 2:11 pm

  What sold me was the style inside and outside, rear passenger foot room, headlights/driving lamps, and the cornering is wonderful. The 2.7 liter V6 gets the job done for the size of motor and can keep up with most of the 3.0 series engines in the market today. I get and average of 24 to 27 mpg in city and 26 to 30 on hwy which is pretty good for a V6. If you are looking for a great car to have fun in and turn heads this would be that car and a plus is it is affordable.

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  Never had a problem with this one - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By sometime - October 11 - 10:00 am

  I have had it for over a year and have had a great time with it. The service from Bonneville is superlative. I would buy another vehicle from them.

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  Sebring Hard Top Convertible - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Carnut - September 26 - 7:35 pm

  Great vehicle! With current incentives it is a great value and lots of fun to drive. Great new features with the MyGig system and navigation. I typically own and drive BMW, MBenz and Porsche, but this car gets me more compliments. If you dont need the high-end performance of the MB CLK, then you can get all of the fun and features at half the price!

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  Excellent Car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Don Pelzel - September 22 - 4:28 pm

  The car has been a pleasant surprise with the ride and fuel mileage. With 72000 miles with no problems. If I drive 70 miles an hour I have obtained over 33 miles to the gallon. Original tires and brakes. Very happy with this purchase.

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  Kudos to Chrysler - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Janet - September 8 - 12:56 pm

  We recently purchased a 2008 Sebring Coupe Touring and absolutely love it. We have been on a few road trips and love the comfort, smooth ride and great gas mileage (averaging 33 mpg). We love the looks and all of the standard upgrades. I am not sure why some would put Honda/Hyundai ahead of this (we test drove both) and hands down it is the winner!

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  This car is a beatuiful beast! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Maxx - August 21 - 12:08 am

  How do I put this, how about the best car in the world! I love my sebring. Nice leather seats with multi disk all power doors Windows seats and moon roof. This car is classy, sporty, and amazing. Good for all ages and probably one of the only good American made cars out there. Id suggest the LXi and not the LX, and definitely the new bigger engine as the old one doesnt have very high acceleration for me, but its okay for my wife. Great great car, never had any problems that werent unexpected. Has 120,000 miles and still runs like new. Thank you Chrysler

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  Best Buy Convertible - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By aaronelbaron - August 15 - 10:00 am

  Closing in on one year of ownership I am very pleased with this vehicle. The ride comfort and performance are balanced perfectly. You can enjoy both long trips (or commutes) and at the same time dive into a corner without worrying about losing control. The car drives faster than you feel so it is easy to exceed the speed limit. Even with the automatic, acceleration is great. This is the lowest priced true 4 seat convertible on the market, so if you must go topless, go Sebring.