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:
Showing 311 through 320 of 1,334.00-
angels toy - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By angelkeeper212000 - June 10 - 6:23 ami love my car i let the top down ever day and ride the tunes blaring its my time to ride and relax i wanted this car ever since they come out so my husband bought it for me the friday before mothers day my best motherss day by far except when my kids where born to me its the best looking convertible thats on the road and with me in it just makes it that much prettier !!!! the seats move to your back so it makes it that much more fun to drive i love it and want have any thing but a sebring from now on
-
Fun to Drive. - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Sonny - June 1 - 10:29 pmLove the auto dispite trans problem and oil light problem while at idle. I have not enjoyed convertible since my 53 target red Chevy convertible.
-
Fun Car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Doc DeLaughter - June 1 - 10:24 amThe Chrysler Sebring Convertible is the most fun to drive of any car I have owned, including a Corvette, a Triumph Spitfire, an Olds 442, and an Opel GT, among others. The only thing I dont care for is the location of the cup holders in the front, a small price to pay.
-
I love my car! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By FL Girl - May 28 - 10:00 amI love having a convertible with a trunk large enough for luggage AND golf clubs. The top is easy to put up and take down and is fast....something that can even be done at a traffic light. The ride is smooth and love the styling.
-
Greatest car Ive ever had - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By Dianne Bryson - May 18 - 9:27 pmWe have used this car for a lot of traveling long distances and have had nothing but pleasure from it. It is so easy to put the top down and up. We will definitely buy another Chrysler Convertible when we are ready to purchase a new car. We were going to buy a PT Cruiser, but were so glad we didnt do that and instead have this car. Its a beautiful color of dark cobalt blue and gets much attention on the freeway. We have had great service from our local Chrysler dealership for our checkups and that is always reassuring to have service that you can trust. WE go to Airpark Chrysler in Scottsdale, AZ. Our model has cloth seats which is much better for this climate! Thank you.
-
Cant top Chrysler - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By alias - May 18 - 3:48 pmGreat car. It replaced a same year Neon, which was also a great car, but I wanted a droptop. I sacrificed my new system in my Neon for the Chrysler premium audio system, it sounds good, but will definitely be replaced in the future. One thing I wish the Sebring had was a CD player, its available with the higher end models or extra option. Drives great, love the V6, has balls. Wind noise at interstate speeds is minimal unless there is strong wind outside, then its a little louder, but can be fixed with extra stripping around the front and rear window junctions. I drove it from my hometown to Denver the day I purchased it, and it was superb. The gas mileage was comparable to my Neon.
-
Sebring fun - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By ramsbaugh - April 22 - 9:57 pmI originally purchased my Sebring as an extra vehicle. My primary vehicle was a 2003, 2500 Truck but it was stolen 8 months after I bought the convertible. I do a lot of traveling across the state of Texas so there are lots of miles, typically. I have found the car to be a delight to be in. I have the top down most all year long...even the winter. I really appreciate all of the leg room and comfort for 5 people to enjoy a ride. The body styling is simple and beautiful.
-
A car to love for - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Debra - April 22 - 7:05 pmI love my 2003 chrysler sebring its the best car I had so far. This is my second car at the age of 27 year old. It very comfort and different in a way. Like the drive have a electric seat and the passage side dont that is really creatie. I never saw a car like that.
-
This car is FUN!! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By no1filmakr - April 19 - 10:00 amI love this car so far. It is a whirl of fun, very classy looking. It floats on the road like a dream, yet drives really responsively. I would recommend it!!!!
-
sebring - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
By Russell S. - April 17 - 4:51 pmi have had my sebirng for bout 8 months and i live in alaska and the roads are bad during winter and this car man oh man it is the best car you can drive in alaska. i handles really well and abs breaks make it even better. the brakes i had to replace 1 time but its ok
