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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  I love this car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Maggie - October 9 - 10:00 am

  This is the most comfortable and easy to drive vehicle I have ever driven. I have driven a number of different cars but the Sebring is by far the best.

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  COOL CAT - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Kacz - September 29 - 11:56 am

  Definitely Fun to Drive. Roomy interior and beautiful exterior. Overall, a great buy for the price tag. To summarize its a classy car at an affordable price. You actually get a lot for your money. However, I must say that it took me awhile to get used to the transition from driving an SUV to the convertable. The children love driving in the convertible more than the SUV but its not practical for use on a daily basis. The children sometimes have many items that they carry to and from school, sports & other activities which we use the SUV on those days.

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  Owner - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By danny - September 27 - 8:12 am

  This is a great car. It has room for 5 and rides like a cloud. It is the 3rd convertible that I have owned. If you want a convertable buy a sebring, you will be very happy. This car has the feeling of driving a sporty car and the ride of a limo. There is plenty of trunk space, glove box is large, room under the arm rests. You will wonder how they found so much room.

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  A blast to drive & own!!! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By MSS - September 14 - 10:00 am

  A great car to drive. I drive 60 miles to work everyday and it makes the drive go by without a hitch. The sound system is amazing.

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  Youll love it and so do the twins! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By triplet1226 - August 30 - 9:18 pm

  Where can you get a convertible that can ride 4 people and have so much fun and a great look? Only with the Seabring Limited. I love the car as much today as the day i bought it. I have the blue with the white leather interior and it catches peoples attention wherever we are. Its a great car for me to unwind from work to home and now that my twins are older they love to take a cruise in it too.

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  sebrings rule - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By liz13 - August 28 - 10:00 am

  1996 chrysler sebring convertabile. had the car 2.5 years, only 1 minor repair. very reliable, priced well, fully loaded, fun, powerful-my most enjoyed car ever.

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  Best Convertible I have ever owned - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Byrl Alexander - August 28 - 4:19 am

  This car handles like a dream on the road, rides real smooth and when riding in the back seat it is a real smooth ride. I couldnt ask for anything more. This car hugs the road, the top seals real good, very little wind noise with the top up. For the money this is the best car on the road today. Fuel getting around 28-30 miles to the gallon on the highway, not as good in the city but still better than most cars today.

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  My Sebring - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By suzekansas - August 24 - 8:34 pm

  This is the best car I have purchased for comfort, handling, and style. It has a sporty look and feel.

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  My 2006 Chrysler Sebring Sedan - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Allen - August 24 - 4:03 pm

  I like my Chrysler Sebring. It handles and drives well. It has plenty of power for a four cylynder vehicle. I did expect better gas mileage which I believe should improve. At this time I only hav abour 1300 miles on my vehicle.

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  33 Miles per gal at 60 mph highway - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By KEITH - August 12 - 5:29 pm

  2000 chysler sebring jxi This car was a program car. It had 17,000 miles on it when I got it. The only thing I have had to do is replace the tires,oil change (synthetic oil), brakes battery a/c and belt. No tune needed yet. I dont think that is too bad for 132,000 miles and getting 33 miles per gallon @ 60 mph / 26.3 miles per gallon @ 79.5 mph and it is running strong. Thank you Chysler