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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Love Sebring - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
By barb48fan - September 23 - 5:18 amMy daughter actually talked me into buying the Sebring. I absolutely love this car. I have the 4 cyl, but she still has pep to her. Easy and fun to drive. Would definitely recommend this car to anyone looking for a good value in an automobile.
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Sebring 2004 - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By SPierce - September 22 - 10:00 amI love my convertible. With 3 teenagers and alot of fun time it is a great vehicle. Good on gas- good power- sporty look
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Impressed with the Sebring Plus - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Bruce B. - September 20 - 10:00 amThis car is comfortable, ride is very good and handles is great. I am very impressed with this car overall. Quality is good.
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I simply love it. - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
By Loveit - September 20 - 6:55 amAt the age of 62 - and after only God knows how may different cars - I have finally found the one I absolutely love. When I bought it, I frankly did so for the looks and comfort - which are both outstanding. Since then, I have grown to love it for the great vehicle it is. I was afraid of getting a 4 cylinder but decided to go for it for the mileage. I have been happy to find the pickup to be wonderful. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants good looks and great performance.
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2007 Sebring Limited - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
By Chris - September 15 - 11:21 pmThis car is a significant improvement over the last generation. I have the 3.5 V6. It is super-quick and fun to drive. The seats could be a little more comfortable. The gas mileage isnt as great but I wanted the big engine. I like the four-door Crossfire look and the interior design. The Limited is worth looking into if the wallet will let you. Fit and finish could be a shade better but overall an excellent car.
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Best car I have owned...love my Chrysler - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
By Michele Hurchla - September 10 - 7:01 pmI have owned nice cars but this car is the top.I have owned my car for about 4 years. I love my 2006 sebring touring. Fantastic car, i love the size not too big or too small. Runs like a charm with normal relacement of parts. Its actually really good in the winter. Safety has airbags all around car. I live in the country and drive mostly highway 22-25 miles per gallon. Cant really find any negative. I just hit 170,000 miles and this baby is like the energizer bunny. Im not kidding. My daughter keeps saying mom why dont you get a new car. I said because I dont need one. I love my car. She sees all the fancy cars out there. What the difference is they have 400.00 car pymts and i dont. I havent had a car payment in over ten years. So I have to laugh when I was younger always thought I needed new car at 70,000 but my Chrysler has proved me wrong. Chrysler please make this same model car again.
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Awesome Vehicle - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
By DAN - August 29 - 10:05 amChrysler has completely outdone themselves with re-designing the 07 Sebring. There isnt much leg room in the back seating area and the sound system wasnt as good as I thought it would be. Other than those 2 minor things.. I absolutely love everything about this car and if youre thinking about purchasing one.. dont think any more. Go out, get your best price and buy it!
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Fun to drive - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
By RJO - August 17 - 7:46 amGot mine on june 19 - now has 4500 miles- tops been up and down a hundred times and it works fine. It is a hard top. Got 26.1mpg on a trip on interstate highways and around town 20 to 22 mpg. It is a fun car 2 drive and the top going down turns heads. I put two carry golfbags in trunk w/top down.
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No hyperbole - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
By BanjoMan - August 13 - 8:58 pmThis car is not a sports car. However, I found previous claims of severe problems with handling to be gross exaggerations. Even taking sharp right turns at speeds higher than I should have I did not encounter excessive body sway or tire squealing. Steering was well behaved under almost any conditions. On straights the car was quiet inside with the cloth top up, and engine noise was noticeable only upon high acceleration. Power was more than adequate. The seats are well formed and comfortable, even the back seats. I like the car.
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Good car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Keith - August 11 - 1:18 pmThis is an update to an original post - now I have 73k odo and still relatively trouble free - extended warranty took care of all. Upper strut mounts on front were replaced causing cupping on tires - I thought it was alignment. Seat heater relay replaced as well as rear spring cushions - all faulty from factory. These are minor issues that could happen with any make. The car still delivers 23 - 24 city and 28 hi way. I just now replaced the front brakes at 71k (that is a first). Car is still tight, no road noise, great mileage, excellent sound system, leather has held up well. This is my wifes daily driver, no kids.
