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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  Joy to own, suprise! - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By dale james - January 22 - 10:03 pm

  I bought this car for driving to and from work. I thought a convertible might be fun. I had no idea of what great fuel economy, and what a pleasure as an everyday driver. Fun, faster than a speeding ticket and great stereo also! I also enjoy 800+ mile journeys in comfort with 30+ mpgs.

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  2003 Sebring LXi Still Rocks!! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By JC - January 17 - 4:38 pm

  I had a Chrysler Cirrus before my Sebring LXi, the (foreign manufactured) Cirrus was discontinued and the (American made) Sebring replaced it... they are essentially the same style/type vehicle (smaller, not a "boat" and very comfortable to drive, lots of power and handling to trust)... I loved my Cirrus and was unhappy that Chrysler had discontinued them (and I bought my Sebring somewhat reluctantly)... WoW! were my fears unfounded. The Sebring was a real step up in overall driving experience... It continues to be a wonderful vehicle, literally in every imaginable way. It truly feels/performs like a sports car. It has power to spare anytime I need it, IT ROCKS! (Im Age 58)

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  96 Sebring Review - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Raheen - January 10 - 7:54 pm

  Ive own the 96 for about 7yrs. Great car, however they are expensive. The car was bought in 2000 with 16K and now I have 178K. Just got the transmission rebuilt at 178K, ball joints around 160K and timing belt and water pump at 90K. A few other repairs but overall this car has held up pretty well. Currently considering the convertible, but Ill just keep driving the coupe for now. Great car.

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  I wish I had bought it sooner - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Neil - January 5 - 4:33 pm

  Corners well with speed sensitive steering, reasonable acceleration, fantastic brakes - I should have bought one when it was new. Plenty of room in the trunk for golf clubs, too. Try packing your clubs in a Mustang ragtop sometime -NOT!--maybe *miniature* golf. My sebring had a quirk *had* that is-- the tach and odometer were intermittent until I fixed a loose solder connection- an easy fix. Comfortable, comfortable, comfortable-- even in the back seat. A very sexy car.

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  The best vehicle i have ever owned - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By JessicaRamirez - December 21 - 2:52 pm

  I really like this car i am so happy i bought one. It is sexy sleek, and rides so smooth. The sound quality is fabulous.

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  NIIIIIICE. - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
  By Matt - December 14 - 4:37 pm

  Overall, this is a nice ride. I bought it for my sons first car, and it was a good choice. I have had a few repairs, but its an old car. I would definitely get another if it came up.

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  A Great Convertible - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By M Keller - December 2 - 6:45 am

  The Chrysler Sebring JXI convertible I own is georgeous. It has supreme styling and looks like a car, not a tank. It is a joy to drive and I still love it after all these years and I never fail to get favorable remarks from others. Its a great car and beautiful.

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  2007 Sebring is full of Sexappeal - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lyle / Sonja - November 28 - 7:05 pm

  Its love at first sight with this car. The exterior design is sleek,smooth,and seductive. The 07 Sebring is right at home riding along side any other luxury sedan that you may encounter while riding around town. Once my wife and I sat inside the car we found it to be comfortable for our size(Im 63/225) and it still leaves room for our girls in the back .Easy to read instrument panel and easy to reach dash controls. Driver seat manual controls for the base model are adequate,and the 2.4L engine rates about a seven getting on the interstate. The steering is tight and moves when you move and the gas mileage is excellent.I would recommend anyone to take the sebring out on a date and enjoy the day

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  Love this Car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Irish - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Have no compaints about car... Bought it before even driving.... Chrysler makes a good car and this is second I have had.

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  Chrysler Sebring in Maine - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By R. J. ST-PIERRE - November 12 - 7:10 pm

  This a fun car to drive. It handles very well and the 2.4 has plenty of power for those of us who are looking for reliable transportation at an affordable price. It is easy to parallel park which is great for my wife. Even the low end model includes many features I paid extra for in our previous car.