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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  Nice Car! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By adam07 - February 22 - 4:47 pm

  Bought it new 8 years ago and still love this thing! Its so stylish and luxurious for $22,000. After 7 years the battery died once, the struts rattle on bumps and could use a replacement, and I need to replace the wiper blades because squeak really loud when you use them, so it has its typical wear and tear but the interior still has a newish smell amazing because I have 3 kids riding in it all the time! There is a lot of road noise but overall it is my favorite car Ive had. I love the way it drives, it has sporty suspension which turns really well and has really good pick-up for a small V6 which means good gas mileage, I would say it gets about 23mph. Good job Chrysler!

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  Ok for a first car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By tom - February 21 - 11:03 am

  Had this car for 5 years in december and its been ok not the best car ive ever owned. The first thing that happened when i got this car wa the a/c was dumping water into the back seat! covered under warranty. Then i got into a wreck not that long ago and busted her up pretty good but the airbag should have deployed but didnt due to a sensor failure. The repair work was good but ever since car has more road noise from the back door. The engine has good power but my radiator hose has a leak and the car over heated and sent smoke into the passenger compartment! So far ive put at least $8000(including the accient) into this car. The accident alone was $6000. But a good car over all.

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  Death Trap - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Maddie S - February 18 - 3:41 pm

  This car has swayed me against convertibles and Chryslers forever. I recieved this car 13 years after it was made, but that is no excuse for the quality at which it operates. I got hit in this car, flipped, and it almost killed me. One time I was riding with the top up, and the wind nearly ripped it off. The brakes were bad. And the rag top leaked, eventually leading to a nasty case of mold growing in the back. Horrible gas mileage as well, maybe 14 miles per gallon. This car was not only a hazard to my social life, but to my actual life as well.

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  Such a deal (so far) - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By MelH - February 11 - 11:55 am

  Purchased off rental with 12000 miles for $13000 in Feb, 2009. Thus far the car has been comfortable, reliable and fun. Good room for four adults and good trunk for a convertible. Radio and CD changer work well with excellent sound. Before purchasing drove a Toyota convertible, used with 10,000 miles and a $25,000 purchase price. Frankly the cars were comparable in all respects exept Toyota was faster with larger engine. For $12000 less, it allows a large reserve for reliability issues, if any arise. I spoke with four others who have owned current and prior versions of the Sebring convertible, and none had any serious complaints.

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  This Car is CRAP! - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Vania - January 31 - 11:18 pm

  I bought this car and I have never had so many problems let alone recalls on any of my cars like I have with this one. The value of this car is very low after purchase and the Fuel Mileage is Horrid I drive a lot and commute with my family. I have had this car 2years and had 4 recalls and enough problems NOT covered by the Warranty or Extended Warranty to have placed a large down payment on another car! Not to mention its body it like plastic!! If you dont get the only changed Immediately the gas mileage is Crap. I would NEVER buy this car or a Chrysler made EVER AGAIN! The customer service is great by phone and fair at the dealer that is the only good part!

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  timing chain - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By browniegirl - January 31 - 12:06 am

  Make sure you get all of your oil changes every 3000 miles. We did not know at the time of purchase that this particular engine has an internal timing chain, in the engine. They wanted to replace our engine with the 3.0L because the 2.7L has such a bad problem with this. We had to have the engine rebuilt and it was almost impossible to get parts for the timing chain assembly. Stick with a car that has a timing belt. Dont buy one with the timing chain in the engine, it only leads to a more expensive repair.

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  New Owner - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By robert - January 27 - 7:09 pm

  Just bought this about 3 weeks ago and my wife and I love it. Looking at all the reviews made me hesitant at first but once I drove it, WOW!. So far so good. Super quiet ride, great sound system, love the interior lighting! My only complaint is that I havent owned this sooner.

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  Love My Sebring!!! - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By CindiT - January 24 - 1:06 pm

  This is my second Sebring Convertible. I had a 06 Touring Cloth top and upgraded to 08 Hard-top Sebring Limited. My husband and I love to lower the top and head out on pretty days. Our kids are grown and this is Moms car. I have the I-connect system for hands-free talking. Great economy on fuel and retractable hard-top is so easy to use. Great looking car inside and out. Trunk is spacious, but there is still room to pack dufflebags/carry- ons to travel. I get lots of compliments on the look of the car with and without the top down. I love the fact I can download my CDs to the music system 20g hardrive and not worry about storing them in the car. Just pull up the Jukebox and pick your music.

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  Resale value a joke!! - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Convertible Lover - January 23 - 7:23 pm

  I love the look of my convertible Sebring. It was in the shop more the first 6 months than I was able to drive it. I had to have the passenger seat replaced because the plastic handle at the top kept breaking the cable in the seat and they couldnt get it fixed without replacing it. Now the driver side plastic handle is broke and needs repaired. The only thing that really bugs me about the car is it isnt worth half of what I paid for it. I cant even trade it in if I wanted too without being upside down. I dont see me buying another Chrysler product. The one really good thing is the looks you get when driving it.

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  Keeps me happy and with a smile! - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By George - January 23 - 6:47 pm

  Theres no better convertible for the price anywhere. Anyone who complains about this car is nuts, unless they have had mechanical troubles Convertbles are not for those who want to live inside a bubble, and if one wants all the comforts of home, they should remain in their living room! When the top is down who cares about the dashboard or the plastic trim? And, if the car were to get wet inside somehow, as all do in time, isnt it better to have things the way this car does? In the winter it holds the road, and its trunk is huge when the top is up. Nowadays everyone is spoiled. Be real,I remember when convertibles were bare bones w/ the metal frame exposed under the top.