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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  Fantastic Car - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By mike - November 9 - 6:49 pm

  We decided to give the Sebring Limited a try as a midsize. The major imports we looked at seemed to be getting bloated and were just plain boring(No spark). The car is just the right size, has great styling and handles extremely well. Twisty roads are a real blast with the precision steering and suspension. The 3.5l engine has lots of power and has a pleasant tone when you get your foot into it. Weve had the car for about 4 months now and it has been trouble free. The build quality is excellent and the interior design is pleasant and unique with high quality material. The seats are very comfortable. Were expecting great service out of this car like our old LHS, +100k and no troubles

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  2007 Sebring Limited 3.5L V6 - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jeff - November 7 - 2:29 am

  A Sebring wasnt even on my next car list several years ago but the redesigned 2007 changed all that. I bought the 3.5L V6 for better performance and, combined with the 6- speed autostick, it doesnt disappoint me. I think it has every option except the moonroof, which I didnt want anyway. I love the Inferno Red color with the chrome accents and the interior with the MyGIG navigation system looks sharp. Little things like the nice, solid sound and feel of the door closing tells me its a quality built car. It is so quiet and smooth on the highway.

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  The best of the best - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Naynay - November 4 - 10:00 am

  It Has been a complete joy to drive this vehical over the years. The style and comfort is un matched

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  Great ragtop - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By boatpuller - November 3 - 7:14 pm

  Ride is great, lacks a little power, looks are grand and not the car you want if you dont want a lot of looks. Fuel mileage is better then it was listed at. Sticker said 28 on the hwy we are getting better then 30. Just love to drive it with the top up or down(prefer down).

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  Love My Sebring - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Melody23402 - November 2 - 10:24 am

  I love this car. Always wanted a convertible but they were out of reach cost wise. This was an excellent purchase.

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  Go out and buy one!!!!!! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By jnelson - November 1 - 10:00 am

  We recently bought a Sebring Convertible GTC.. Amazing!!! Wonderful to drive and looks great!!! Punch the accelerator and you go. Make sure you get the V6. It makes a huge difference. Oh, and make sure you get leather seats!!! Wonderful. My wife and I are in love with the Sebrign GTC

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  Cruising Couple - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By southerngal - October 29 - 10:00 am

  We are enjoying this convertible immensely. Bright red with a taupe top, we turn heads wherever we go. Everytime I get into this car, I just feel pure delight. We had a 1992 Mustang convertible that was also a head turner, but this car is luxurious, spacious and a joy to drive.

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  Great buy - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By steve - October 11 - 6:51 pm

  I felt this was a great buy. I was looking for a good solid car that was good on gas. Being a Chrysler minivan owner I was a little more inclined to be less harsh on the product because I had such good luck with my van. But with that said the Sebring surprised me on looks inside and out. The equipment I have on the car that listed for $22,400. So far it has exceeded my expecatations

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  Limited Sebring Review - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By ncqueenbee - October 2 - 10:03 am

  First year where heated seats were offered, and is a "must." Light colored leather seats hold up well, even with family use. This is the only convertible that would work for my family size wise (great trunk space and can even fit a bale of hay in it!). Only issue ever with this car is "nagging" Air Bag light warning, that cant seem to be corrected. No set offs or anything though. And the car has been perfect otherwise. Have people offering to buy it often, but cant seem to part with it.

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  Fun car that impresses - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By great car!!!!!!!! - September 29 - 3:49 pm

  I absolutely love getting compliments from people, just the other day a lady of at least 70 years said nice car kid! Anyways, this car is no Mustang GT, but it is very fun to drive. The engine sounds great, and it handles the back roads in my area like a pro! Awesome car and I plan on keeping it for a long time