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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  LXI Rating - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Guierrmo - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Good Feel on road at multiple speeds. Better handling than T-Bird. Like suspension.

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  Great car, but... - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By DC Driver - December 12 - 2:00 am

  We bought after having our 2nd child, since we couldnt fit 2 car seats in our old convertable. Its fun for me to drive but my 6 husband is frustrated by the visor mounting and low windshield, which make it hard for him to see. Its comfortable though unsexy - I feel like Im in a convertible version of my parents car versus something young, urban & hip.

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  sebring lxi - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By tasha - December 10 - 2:00 am

  Although I did not have any actual engine problems, I had several problems with everything from the sunroof leaking to the brakes squeaking to the automatic mirrors not working. Mine was probably a lemon, though, because I have heard only good things from other people!

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  2001Sebring LXI - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By MassMan - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Was able to buy it for about $100 less than TMV in 3/01, beginning of recession. Two problems with build quality: (i)the trunk leaked and it took them two tries to fix it (now its fine) and the rear window defroster broke (they fixed it right the first time). Since then, it is a lot of fun to drive! Powerful and grips the road very well. Big enough for three kids in back. 4-disc CD player works great. Blasting music with the top down, whether in traffic or on the open highway is still a thrill (Im 46). I look so happy that people talk to me at stop lights. Very glad to have it, recommend it highly.

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  loven it - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By blondknight - October 19 - 2:00 am

  Very fast for a 4 door. Great on fuel if you keep your foot out of the pedal. price to fun ratio is high as well.

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  Great looking fun to drive - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By gyrocfi - September 17 - 2:00 am

  My sebring is just great. I love to drive it and we look good in it. It was the best car for the price and the only sport convertable that has plenty of room in the front/back seat and trunk. It has good gas milage.

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  MY 2ND SEBRING CONVERTIBLE - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lou from Harrisburg - September 15 - 2:00 am

  After 2 accidents and 120,000 miles, my 96 JXi was getting tired, so I thought it was time. Id been mentally keeping track of the minor visible changes, but a lot more invisible changes had been happening: Quieter, firmer, improved door panels, stronger engine.

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  Great car - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Linett - September 6 - 2:00 am

  I bought this car second hand from a dealer. I have had it for 5,000 miles. It is great to drive, beautiful to look at. I have had no problems and expect none.

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  JNorflets 1999 Sebring Lxi - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jerry Norflet - August 30 - 2:00 am

  This car is lots of fun to drive. The manufacturers sound system, seats and interior is excellent. However, when compared to my previous car, which contained a 3800 v6, the performance is lacking. The reliability has been fantastic. I commute 100 miles to work each day (all highway miles) and the ride is as smooth as silk. The car has 17" whhels and handles like a dream on turns, and in curves. The suspension provides a nice combination of ride and handling. I receive compliments on the car wherever I go. Many dont realize its a Chrysler (or American car)

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  Pretty, but unreliable - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By oldengineer - August 25 - 2:00 am

  Ive put 50000 miles on my Sebring so far. Have had numerous electrical problems, an oil leak, an AC fan failure, brake problems and starting problems. Even had a minor structural failure, while trying to use on-board jack to change a flat. Worst Chrysler of the 14 Ive owned. It delivers great fuel economy, but, is beset by first model year woes. The thing is a rolling advertisement for Japanese cars. Chryslers Intrepid/Concorde series is far superior to these things.