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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  Great Car - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By sebring - October 11 - 12:39 pm

  Same problem with black goo coming out of doors on hot days. Otherwise it is great to drive. Handling is superb, very fun to drive. Not a lot of power off the line but enough to make it a fun drive. As long as you change the trans fluid regularly you will have no problems. Looks great, drives great, good car!

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  Best Value Convertible ? - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By R.B. - September 25 - 2:41 pm

  Ive had my car for over a year and in addition to providing me with great summer entertainment, it performed formidably throughout a full Canadian winter. The car is beautiful, fairly economical, and the acceleration is smooth and quick. The single largest problem that this car has is body shake. It becomes especially noticeable when the top gets thoroughly wet. If the 2007 Hard Top will address these issues, I might re-think buying the convertible Solara.

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  Great Convertible - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By tom - September 24 - 11:46 pm

  Weve been on several 4K trips with this car, and it has been wonderful--- very comfortable and stable on long rides----top down is a blast!

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  The car from hell - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By charleyomalley2005 - September 14 - 11:31 pm

  I hate to sound negative but THIS car should be shredded, then incinerated!!! I have had nothing but continual trouble and repeat trips for repair this car that has already cost me more money than what it is worth, is always breaking down, just had the ACI valve and fuel pump replaced and I am still having trouble, nothing has changed it is the "LeBARON" with a clever makeover that is not fooling anyone, to other owners DUMP THIS CAR AND RUN!!! THERE IS NO FIXING IT... read the reviews CONTINUAL PROBLEMS!!!!

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  coming up for air.... - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ellen Trout - September 4 - 11:22 pm

  Love the car, great fun to drive...until the air-conditioning went....has been worked on 15 times, still blowing hot today....have changed every piece in he air....nothing works. cant breathe,,,,,it is HOT,,,, I live in FLorida.....HeLp Me

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  Great Car to impress your friends with - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Frank Smith - September 1 - 6:06 pm

  Most of my friends either have a Honda or Toyota, and they are all impressed by the quality and comfort of the car. They also like the fact it is bigger, so we can fit five much more comfortably. One thing I will say is that the V6 is lacking in low-end torque. I drove a 91 Olds before buying this car, and even though it has 40 less horses, it had better acceleration. Chrysler also needs to pay more attention to the tranny, shifts are sometimes rough.

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  Convertible Fun in the Sun - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Dave D - August 31 - 9:47 pm

  This is a fun car to drive, despite a high degree of cowl shake. The leather seats are very well done, and the vinyl panels and dash look and feel high-quality, although the faux wood dash panels look a bit tacky. The white electro-luminescent instrument displays look great, especially at night. Acceleration is modest, but can be fun when using the manual feature of the auto transmission. The 2.7 liter v6 is not a barn-burner, bu fuel economy is good, about 22 mixed city driving, 28- 29 on the freeway. It is surprisingly quiet at highway speeds. Overall quality is mediocre. Repairs were required for the tops raise/lower system, passenger door window mechanism, engine stalling at start.

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  LOVE the car, HATE the problems!!! - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Amanda S - August 29 - 1:13 pm

  I bought the car at 63,000 miles and it was 4 years old. It was alright for the first 1 1/2 years. Besides all of the wear and tear, I have had 3 transmission problems (never had to replace it, but have come close to it), the AC AND heating unit doesnt work (I have to put it on full blast for anything to come out...the first 3 settings produce NOTHING), and for the past YEAR there is this annoying beeping sound that is CONSTANT!!! Its the beep that occurs when a door is open. I have to put my radio up OVER it...4 auto technicians said they wont touch it! While the beeping is going, the locks are going crazy, and at random times, the car alarm sets off! This all started at about 85k miles.

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  2002 Sebring Limited Convertible - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Richard - August 26 - 4:11 pm

  Have been looking at Chrysler Sebrings for some time as they are one of the few sporty type convertibles I can afford. I am amazed at the equipment I have on my Sebring as I own a 2000 Cadillac Deville and a 2001 Lincoln Town Car and the Sebring has all the equipment they have including all the little toys like compass, thermomitor, etc. So far, I have had a great deal of fun driving this little car. In my opinion, it is a great car for the money.

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  Been Very Happy - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Been Very Happy - August 14 - 11:02 am

  I bought my 2000 Sebring JXI new. The vehicle is now 6 years old and has 84,000 miles on it. I am very particular, changed the oil and filters religously. The car looks and runs like it just came off the showroom floor. I have changed the brakes and rotors, battery, serviced the trans and cooling system, basic maintenance you expect to keep a car purring. The only problem I had was the sensor on the trans failed which was under warranty. The wires connecting the rear defroster failed several times, so I gave up on that. The sun visor clips broke several times, no big deal inexpensive items to replace and change out easily. The sound system is excellent for stock. Love my car. I recommend.