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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  Sebring Touring - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ryan - July 5 - 2:46 pm

  When looking for a new car I happened upon the Sebring. I started looking at it just for the styling. Then I drove one and fell in love with it. It is a lot of car for the money. I just dont like to buy anything but American and this in my opinion is the best mid-sized American car for the money. I liked the 2.7L V6 in the Touring with its E85 capability and the 18-inch wheels are definitely a plus. It rides like a much more expensive car and it very quiet on the interstate when cruising at 82mph. I am very happy so far with 522 miles driven, hopefully many more.

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  2007 Chrysler Sebring 2.4L - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ted - June 28 - 3:04 pm

  My first full tank of fuel averaged me 37 mpg. That is way more than I expected. I like this car for its solid feel and good handling, inside trim, non glare dash, side air bags. I feel the seats are too small and too firm, the engineers should be required to test drive for at least a 300 mile trip and that would insure better and more comfortable seats. The engine is noisy going through gears while accelerating but at highway speeds I do not hear it. The trade off for the fuel economy is well worth it. Buy the car!

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  Great car! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By shtief - June 26 - 10:00 am

  Great value in this price range. Nice low profile, good pick-up, fun to drive. Passengers in the back seat are out of luck...there is not much room back there, especially with a tall driver. Interior lighting is a bit strange, and the sun visors are essentially useless on the side windows.

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  New (04) Sebring Tour. Init. Impressions - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By kenitzer - June 22 - 10:00 am

  Purchased Sebring Tourning Convertible yesterday. Sapphire Blue over Sandlewood w/ Sandlewood Cloth Top. All options exc. ABS Tract Cont. Short list included Sebring, 04 Toy. Solara Conv. and 01 Saab 9-3 Conv. Sebring most attractive to my eye. Nice and roomy inside. Liked Solara, but rare as "hens teeth" and more expensive. Saab was fun to drive but reliablity concerns were an issue. We have had good luck with other Chrysler products in past which helped make the decision easier. I really like the Sebring styling, esp. the 04 models with the new grill design. While not a sports car, still fun to drive. Top down produces lots of smiles for the

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  Ragtop Love - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By filigree1 - June 19 - 9:03 am

  I bought this car used with 18,000 miles on it June 2006 for $14,000. It was a fleet car prior. I cant say enough nice things about this car. The only negative I could find is that it has some blind spots with the top up, but after driving it a while, its easy to compensate for them. I intend to keep this car a long time. The new ones are too small and dont hold turns like this one does. It also accelerates quite well. I know people have complained about acceleration in this model, but all I can say is they probably dont keep it properly tuned. My friend paid a fortune for a Jaguar and hes kicking himself. My car accelerates faster, has better performance, mileage, and road huggability.

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  Best car Ive owned in 40 years - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By LoveUSA - June 17 - 12:35 am

  I bought this car new (5000 miles) and have never had a moments trouble. Its still running strong after all these years, with only regular maintenance and fluid checks. Brakes had to be re-padded, thats all. I would definitely consider buying another Chrysler Sebring. Its still looks and runs as nice as when I first bought it. Have a few recall notices over the years, minor things like convertible top instructions and shift lock. Other than that, you cant go wrong with one of these cars.. and their so hot looking, quiet and smooth. Love it!

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  A super car for a small amount of cash - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By a car fan - June 8 - 10:00 am

  Here in the Netherlands cars are very expencive because tax you must pay. The new Chrysler Sebring is a cheap car here (€ 40.000). Nothing compares with this car and price.

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  Wow, what a pleasant surprise! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By garbo@foxvalley.net - June 4 - 10:00 am

  This is our first Chrysler since 1992 and what a difference a decade makes! This car is one incredible value. We paid just about $27,500 after rebate for a decked-out Limited. This easily beats our Mustang convertible by miles. It has a much nicer interior and is free from the shake and rattles seen in our Mustang. The gas mileage has been excellent and the trunk space is superb for a convertible. Its great being able to haul around 4 decent size people too. The Mustang back seat and truck are not in the same league. This car is relatively cheap to insure too!

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  Good car - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By erik - May 26 - 12:23 pm

  It feels like you are driving a car that costs a lot more. The ride is very smooth. Acceleration is very good for a four cylinder. The trip computer reads as high as 35mpg. But I calculated mileage myself and Im getting 32.5. I drive 90% highway.

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  Excellence without the high price - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By AFbowl300 - May 22 - 2:00 am

  This car has been highly reliable and has excellent value without the high price. I enjoy driving it. It has fun colors to choose from and comes with standard features that one would need who doesnt drive far.