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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My Convertible - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
By notirish - March 21 - 2:00 amThis was my first convertible and I have had fun with the car. I have had it for almost 5 years and it is holding up well. The only problems were handled under warranty and some routine maintenance. Sometimes I wish it was a bit shorter and had better visibility with the top up.
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First Car - 1995 Chrysler Sebring
By Eliyas - March 15 - 2:00 amThis being my first car, ive learned alot. This car is a very nice car to drive, and to own. Very fast, but kills the gas. The brakes on this thing are amazing, i think its all sports type brakes. One thing you should watch out before buying this car is that parts are very expensive for this car. The engine is all mitsu, and this car is the EXACT same as the dodge avenger, and the mitsu eclipse. Love the bucket seats and the stock speaker system. AUTO SUNROOF IS AMAZING.
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Still looks (& drives) good after 5 yrs. - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
By divinemsm - March 7 - 2:00 amMy Sebring convertible has held up rather well, aside from a couple of minor body dings. When its cleaned and waxed, it still looks great. And it runs and handles very well. So far Ive had to replace only two things: (1) a tire that took a nail in the sidewall at 9,000 miles (2) I just had to replace the original battery after a spell of very cold weather. Ive owned 3 Chrysler convertibles in the past 17 years (1 bought as a repo, 2 bought new), and this one is the best- built yet. Im not planning to buy a new car for a couple of years, but Ill have to look at Sebrings again if I decide to buy another ragtop.
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nice car - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By KL9 - March 2 - 2:00 am10000 mi, good mileage, handling, and no rattles. poor storage space and road noise could be le
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So So Car, great looks - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
By DRMK - February 27 - 2:00 amAC Compressor went 1st year, side windows do not seal shut (when closing door when weather is bitter cold). Tires expensive to replace. Front end too low must be careful not to scrape it In the shop now for possible speed sensor problem, transmission stuck in 2nd (the dealer calls it limp mode so you can limp it back to the shop)
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My 2003 Sebring - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By cooldiva - February 21 - 2:00 amI just purchased my 2003 Sebring LXI 2 months ago and I am exceptionally please with the smooth ride and dazzling exterior! Now it not only looks sporty, its looks more stylish and classier!! I also love the front grille and the reshaped hood. This car is so appealing and such a head turner! I feet so cool riding down the rode in my beautiful black LXI coupe. Thank you for the better paint because I had problems with my paint on my 1998. I also love the 4-CD in dash with the 7 speakers!!!! Also the new stainless steel look inside is such an eye catcher! So as you can see I am truly enjoying my new redesigned 2003 Coupe!
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Repair Guzzler - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
By Luigi - February 13 - 2:00 amI have owned this car from day one. The top was replaced in year 3. Since hitting 60k miles my engine light has continued to light up my dash with its lovely vibrant yellow. I had brought it to 3 different dealers, all giving me different diagnosis. Evaporate fuel seal leak was one of the popular answers. Needless to say my fuel system was redone twice costing me over a thousand bucks. The 96-97 Sebring has been rated one of the worst used cars to own. I think that sums it up.
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3 Year Owner - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
By GregsJewel31 - February 10 - 2:00 amI have had a pretty good experience so far with this car. I have over 70000 miles on it and it is still going. The acceleration could be better. When the engine is cold, it takes a while to get going in the morning. I love driving it with the top down. When the top is up, it seems kind of little inside. I am a little clausterphobic anyway. The one thing I dont understandis...where is the ashtray? I dont understand. I have never had a non-smoking car before...ha ha ha.
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Dont Buy a 95 Sebring - 1995 Chrysler Sebring
By Pekao - January 17 - 2:00 amThis car looks great from the outside, maybe even the inside, but once you drive with it for more than a week, you begin to realize the true colors of the vehicle. The first thing that went wrong, was the heat. Then after i was told it would be over a thousand dollars to fix, the car wouldnt start half the time. And eventually cut out on me in the middle of the highway. If I were you i wouldnt buy a 95 sebring, sure its aestheticly pleasing, but the motor is a piece of crap.
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3 Year Test Drive - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
By 3 year Owner - January 3 - 2:00 amBought new 3 Years ago. Good not great car. Great value for the price-fun top down experience. Handling so-so, cowl shake sometimes too pronounced and irritating. Needs more HP for the quick get aways. Cupholders, interior storage could be better. Reliability so far Ok, with some electrical issues and engine surging at around 30 degrees, high humidity. 5 Star service also so-so. Luke warm on another Chrysler purchase.
