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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Bobs Review - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Bob - September 19 - 10:47 pmFun to drive. This is my first convertible and I love it. There is plenty of power, lots of bells and whistles, and a unique sense of style, all rolled into one. I looked at several makes of convertible, and this one offered the biggest and best bang for the buck.
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Great Car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Scott - August 17 - 6:52 pmWe love our Sebring! I am 64" and fit in it with lots of room and the baby seat for my daughter has plenty of room in the back as well. It handles good and has a great sound system. The 6 has good power and it has a smooth ride.
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bad wheels - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By Dougs - August 17 - 4:27 pmOther than continuous trouble with wheels, there are no other signficant problems. 3 wheels have needed to be replaced due to cracking, which results in continuous leeking of tires. Also, lines of sight are generally poor.
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Great car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By Charles Glenn - August 10 - 3:32 pmIm an insurance agent and travel all over the state visiting my clients. This car is not only a lot of fun to drive, but its also a real head-turner with the top down. Performance is quite spirited, but still gives me an average of 23 mpg. Great cruiser, as well as being nimbile around town. The top is easy to operate, and is weather tight, although a bit noisy at high speeds. Excellent car overall, and Id be happy to buy another one!
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Good Value - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By SeebSedan - August 10 - 3:30 pmIn April of 2005 I bought a used 2002 Chrysler Sebring Sedan LX. I was coming from a 2000 Neon that suffered a lot of road and engine noise. Needless to say I was more than impressed with the 2.7L V6 and adequate interior space. Like others I think the dash design is a little dated but the fit and finish is nice. The front seats are wide and supportive. So far no mechanical problems, however the engine must be revved to about 5500 rpms to get any notable acceleration. Once and a while when the headlights or driving lights are on, and I turn on the turn signal the interior lights blink on and off - has anyone else had this problem?
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1st but not last - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
By bernie coalt - August 9 - 2:28 pmi am 61 years old never owned a chrysler as i was a chevy man. Buying this car makes me wonder what i missed out on my life of buying auto after auto, I think the auto is tops, hope the florida sun does not destroy it. thank you for letting me voice my happiness over my purchase. Sebring forever. bernie coalt
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NEW OWNER - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By BILL GRAFF - August 8 - 2:00 amSECOND SEBRING CONV. OWNED; 2004 APPEARS TO IMPROVEMENT OVER 98 MODEL.LITTLE DISAPPOINTED WITH RESPONSE EVENTHOUGH RATED AT 200HP DOES NOT APPEAR THAT MUST QUICKER THAN THE 98 MODEL.
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Grannys new ragtop - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
By Jennie Robbins - August 5 - 2:41 amFor a seven yr old car it has plenty of get up and go. People notice it. I bought it on line, and drove it home (1,000 miles) with no problems. It is smooth shifting and has plenty of power for this 60 yr old grandmother. I prefer it to my vintage corvette.
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Pauls Review - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Paul H. Emerson - August 1 - 4:53 pmExcellent comfort and style. Fun to drive. Only problem, which is typical for all convertibles, is some wind noise around the convertible top and some water leakage with rain
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Great car for the money - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By namllits 2002 - July 19 - 12:55 amA very well built car that brings back all the best of convertible cruising. Reliable, great styling and so easy to pop the top. It seems solid and is relatively quiet with great road holding ability and smooth ride. Overall, Chrysler has been building convertibles for so long now, that the Sebring has all the best features you could including a great interior.
