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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  GOING BACK TO GM - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Disappointed - January 17 - 3:35 pm

  Had an Olds for 10 years w/NO problems. Im already looking to dump this Sebring. While so far its running fine, Ive had stupid little things to deal with. My odometer light has gone out, the cigarette lighter wouldnt charge my cell phone and now the cylinder has totally come out in one piece. To fix these little things requires a full dismantle of the front dash. Had an idiot light regarding fuel come on recently too and reset itself after 20 starts. What that was about - still dont know. And the horn on this car stinks. Can give it a good lean while the car is parked and not running but try to do that while driving and it gives off a staccato toot that hardly gets you heard.

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  bought it used and it is perfect - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By kev1049 - January 15 - 1:41 pm

  The wear of the car is great inside and out but I noticed some paint defect on the front bumper. This car make me feel like every one is looking at you.

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  GTC 5-Speed - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By David Sanders - January 14 - 6:37 pm

  I have had my GTC for a year and a half. Its a great car, fun to drive. It was a Chrysler Executive Vehicle that was never titled until I bought it. I have put 25,000 miles on it since I got it. It drives great and I love the 5-speed. The interior is a little plain though. It would be nice to have pockets on the backs of the seats for maps, etc. I have not had ANY trouble with the car at all. I have only had it into the dealership once and that was because the passenger window was sluggish when putting down the top. It wasnt all the way down when the top was!

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  Dont do it - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jim - January 14 - 5:28 pm

  I rolled the dice and hoped I wouldnt have trouble, I was persistent at dealer during warranty and got water pump, power steering pump, alternator replaced. Electrical problems cost $800 after warranty. Never again.

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  Good Look but poor suspension - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By bison - January 3 - 11:15 pm

  I purchased my convertible new and enjoy driving it with the top down but it needs better suspension for bumpy roads. The engine is quiet but having a convertible makes it noisy. I have had some leaking from the top and rear defroster not working. I have 35000 miles and it has been reliable. But I am disappointed of the poor resale value of these vehicles. Chysler has a good visual look but in- town ride is rough.

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  Fun for the Family - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By RBR - December 18 - 2:53 am

  We have 3 small kids and a Honda minivan. I traded in an Accord for the Sebring. I bought the car for my wife and I to enjoy and still have something big enough to meet the demands of a second car for a family of 5. We primarily plan to use the car for "date nights/weekends" and time together, and I use it as a work car. With the rebates and great honda trade-in values we got the car at a ridiculously low price. We rented a Sebring in Hawaii on our honeymoon and 8 years later we feel like we are back on that honeymoon.

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  Still love this car! - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Chrysler guy - December 11 - 11:02 pm

  Was reading some other reviews and thought Id put my two cents worth in: Bought my Sebring new in May, 2000, and for the first 3 years only had put about 33,000 miles on it, using it every day but for a mostly local lifestyle. Then I moved about 20 months ago and have been commuting about 100 miles a day since then. My mileage is up to 73000+, and the car is holding up just great! I still love the exterior body style and stance of the car the original top is in perfect condition the car never has leaked and has needed NO repairs beyond routine maintenance except for having to replace the front brake rotors, which warped due to my putting brake dust shields on the wheels.

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  New "family car" - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By okie family - December 10 - 1:41 pm

  I bought this as a fun car. We have 3 small children and my wife and I wanted a "date" car. I enjoy driving it. It is quiet with the top up and the mileage is good for a V6. The car is not a sports car but it is very responsive and quick. We look forward to taking it on many weekend getaways when we can convince someone to watch or kids.

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  Zero Defects playcar - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ralph Robinson - December 4 - 4:58 pm

  Have had a Sebring Convertible for 6 months and have had zero defects. It is a terrific looking car, inside and out, and turns heads. I am not looking for a big power car and find the 2.7 liter engine perfectly acceptable for my normal driving.It is basically a fun/play car for me. Handling has been fine At my age I dont push a car to the limit anymore!

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  After 80000 miles - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By Robert W. Porter - November 7 - 4:46 pm

  After 80000 miles and 7 years later, the body is still in excellent shape and the paint still shines. But the tie-rod ends go bad and then break, yes I said break, so you cannot steer when they break and could cause an accident. So have them replaced as soon as you buy one of these cars, or have the owner do it before you buy. The cross over tube in your cooling system deteriorates and needs to be replaced, kind of pricey. The rear defogger hasnt worked since I bought the car. The tranny is geared high so you dont get the full effect of the 168hp V6. And the computer puts the engine at idle once you hit 105mph. Doesnt go any faster unless you can get the rev limiter shut off.