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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  2003 sebring 4dr - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By white_shadow - February 25 - 2:00 am

  overall its a nice car. i bough tit for my wife. we had a child on the way and needed something else other than a mustang. this car seems to fit what we needed. i really wanted a 300m but could not find on in my price range.

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  my chrysler - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By your daddy - February 22 - 2:00 am

  great car until 90,000 miles. Also, expensive to repair due to mitsubishi parts.

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  So far, so good! - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By AggieKlin03 - February 19 - 2:00 am

  So far, I have loved this car. I have only had it for about 3 months now but I could not have asked for more in a car for the price. If you are worried about appearance, this is a super-sexy car. Ive read several reviews complaining about the wheels bending easily, but luckily, mine came with after-market wheels off the used car lot. My only complaint is that of the low front end. I find myself braking and cringing at any little dip in the road.

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  Needs more power - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By griffojm - February 16 - 2:00 am

  This car looks fast, but doesnt quite perform as advertised. The 170 HP is well under what I had expected. Recently, I replaced a bent rim...and I am constantly swerving from potholes. The transmission shifts in and out of overdrive for some reason, and takes a hell of a lot of time to get into overdrive on cold mornings (the dealership says that both are "normal conditions"). The front end of this car drags on anything, so if you buy one, be sure to keep your distance from parking blocks. My next car will definately not be a Chrysler, unless someone GIVES me one....BUY FROM HONDA!!!

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  Second Sebring Convertible - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Al@MYR - January 31 - 10:00 am

  This is my second Sebring Convertible--I had a 1996 JXI. My 96 had absolutely no problems--zero--in 97,000 miles. My 2004 Limited has 3200 miles on it so far, and no problems have been noted with it either. Unfortunately, Chrysler cheapened the interior. The heater/ac controls look like they were lifted from a Soviet tractor, and the top-of-the-line radio has no combination cassette/CD feature like the old one. The power outlet is also crude, having no cover (even my Dodge truck has this), just a black rubber stopper. The carpet no longer has vinyl heel pads.

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  Value - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By ZGR - January 13 - 10:00 am

  A lot of car for under $16,000. AND GOOD ON GAS.

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  my sebring - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By hahasaraha - January 13 - 2:00 am

  I have only had it a few months and I love every little bit of it. I wish I would have gotten the V6 for that extra pick-up but with the 4cylinder- it still has good pickup and passing gears. I have driven long distances and it is extremely comfortable. This car has gven me the affordable luxury I was looking for.

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  1998 Seibring jx convertible - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By woodrow ban - January 10 - 2:00 am

  Dealership great. Car underpowered. Needs the v-6. Milage unimpressive. Cornering sluggish. Mechanically poor. Head gasket at ~60,000. After a fight, Chrysler did do a good-will adjustment. Outer tie rod ends at 65,000. Way too soon. No grease fittings on originals or replacements. Electrical window switches have required replacement twice. Internal headlight aimer failed. Ended up illuminating the telephone wires. Not repairable, needed a ~$250 headlamp module. Interior panels crack and break.

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  Enjoy it - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By cousindebbie - December 23 - 2:00 am

  I just bought it but do really enjoy driving this car. I do hope it stands up tp my expectations, but think it will. I feel safer in it than I did my Saturn and it is quieter and somewhat more comfortable. Seats can be a bit more comfortable, honestly. But I do really like this vehicle.

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  Sebrina - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By BlondeInaRedcar - December 20 - 2:00 am

  "Sebrina" is a sweet-looking sporty car. Still gets wolf whistles from gear head guys and teen girls adore her. Her V6 doesnt have power in acceleration. Her nose scrapes high curbs and parking bumps catch on it. Change the tranny fluid frequently to avoid slipping. Few tire choices and high prices make new treads expensive, but the aluminum rims are sooo sharp looking! The rear view mirror fluid overheated and leaked out, making it cloudy. Roomy trunk, good gas mileage, great handling. The only back-to-dealer problem were the side panels which came loose 7 times, replaced twice! No mechanical problems in over 4 years.