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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  Looks good but - 2009 Chrysler Sebring
  By davfit - October 5 - 2:39 pm

  What can I say about this Car liked its Looks, Drives good,but has to many Design flaws...... Exterior well look at top of door frames ,odd looking should have been higher, glass taller fake window addition on rear panel,???? Interior :Plastic sandpaper panels or Interior by biglots good layout Cheap Materials No GRAY INTERIORS BORING ...DATED .... The Sonota is such a better choice

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  Enjoying Car - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By psdon - October 4 - 6:44 am

  Bought my Sebring 10 months ago with 20,000 miles. I have 40,000 now. I spend at least 2 hours a day in it. I am enjoying its drive, the sound system and have had no trouble at all.

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  Best for the $$$$$ - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Don Durzo - October 4 - 2:00 am

  Looked for a convertible that gives comfort,extra power not desired and the price was right on track, Very comfortable to drive and well worth the price. Not any real competition in this size vehicle. Work for a major competitor and the Quality is very good

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  Just purchased - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By SDR - October 2 - 12:28 pm

  My husband surprised me 9/21/09 with a 2002 4dr LX Chrysler Sebring. The Car is beautiful but it didnt come with the transmitter for the alarm. I took it to Mt Ephraim Dodge 9/26/09 and paid $131.61 for a new transmitter. 10/01/09 my car would not start! I called the dealer and was told maybe the alarm burned out the battery. Now I have to pay $98.00 for a diagnostic test. On top of that when I turn my steering wheel to its furthest point left or right it makes this screeching sound. I was told I need to $48.99 to check it. If I need a Power Steering Pump it will cost me $110 for parts and if it is the Rack N pennon (??) the parts will cost $600.72 not including labor.

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  Chrysler Hurts - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By IDK - September 22 - 5:54 pm

  I bought my car new replaced brakes twice rotors once. I agree with the person that said maybe the brakes are not strong enough for this car. I now seem to have an electrical problem. Airbag light comes on when it wants, windows work when they want car just lost power on an exit ramp. From what I seen on this site dealerships can not figure it out. I Bought this car new so I would not have to deal with a care breaking down, because I thought it would be better to make payments on a new car instead of constantly repair an old one. My bad (I was wrong).

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  2004 Bad Engines Known - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By kslinca - September 20 - 3:51 pm

  It is known that this car has bad engines in that there is a problem with the oil valve system causing the engine to run out of oil without telling you there is a problem. therefore the engine blows up! (Im not a professional but if you do the research youll find what i did about this) BUT Chrysler Does Not Stand By Their Products....even tho this should be covered. Cost me $8,000.

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  Great upscasle car - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ray Hatfield - September 18 - 12:14 am

  I specifically went looking for a reasonably priced 2003 sedan because I think it was the last sporty Sebring produced. It was purchased with an extended B to B warranty that i have used twice to replace power seat motor and A/C evaporator. Both werent working right when purchased at 56,000+ miles. I also had to replace factory original tires. the transmission needed a computer upgrade to fix erratic down shift problem. Other than that the car has needed nothing but oil changes. The 2.7 V6 purrs with excellent performance and decent gas mileage. I run Prolong in the oil for a 100% engine guarantee as long as I own the car, and recommend it.

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  Great Choice - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By baldy404 - September 16 - 11:09 am

  We love our 2008 Sebring Touring Sedan, the 4 cylinder engine is very responsive, with excellent fuel economy (34hwy/28 combined). With 5-Star crash ratings, stability control and side airbags, you cant buy a safer car! Handling in winter conditions was fantastic, the front wheel drive and stability control performed great. We also like the LIFETIME WARRANTY on the powertrain and plan to keep this car for ten years or more, what a fantastic value! Do yourself a favor and drive the Sebring and compare it to similar cars and I will be surprised if you dont buy the Sebring.

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  Great car - 2009 Chrysler Sebring
  By STEVE - September 16 - 12:11 am

  Sebring is a great car rides nice, adequate power, nice looking interior, the light tan leather seats are wonderful! Exterior is also very nice, fuel mileage is ranging from 23 city to 33 hwy with 4 passengers and junk in the trunk. This is a great car.

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  Incredable car!!!!!! - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lingenfelter09 - September 15 - 10:35 pm

  I bought my car from an 80 year old lady who only drove the car a few times a month. When I got the car, it barely had 20,000 miles on it. The car itself ran a 9.8 on 1/4 mile. Ive never had a single problem with it. I found if I keep up with the tune ups and what not, the car will do anything I ask it too. Although I keep the car in a heated/air conditioned garage 90 percent of the time, it is one of the greatest cars I have ever owned. If youre looking to buy a fast, fun, and all around amazing car. Buy a Sebring.