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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Im lovn my convertible! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By C. - July 30 - 9:17 pmI have never ridden in a more comfortable car. The back seats are just as comfy. Love the style and classic design.
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great car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By cnvrtble4lyf - July 22 - 8:35 pmLiving in upstate NY, everyone thought I was crazy for buying a convertible! ... HOW WRONG THEY WERE! This is the best car Ive ever owned - a "practical" sized car, powerful V6, smooth handling, great look, fun to drive, reliable, power top ... plus quiet and well-insulated to keep the heat in (even during snowy January days) I love this car!
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My new Car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By Chanta99 - July 21 - 6:31 pmThis is the very first car I have purchased and I have enjoyed every minute of it. MY first car was a a very small car, so I love all the room I have in this car.
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Primary driver 3 days a week - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By Rancho - July 20 - 3:03 amLove this convertible, my kids loved to ride in it and, I enjoy driving them around. Its my 1st convertible and I realy had fun driving it. I have tested other convertible like Ford Mustand, and Mercedes, no room in the back to stratch your legs. I find the Chrysler Sebring Limited to be the most comfortable for the family of four. The seat in the front and rear is excellent compare to other convertibles. Under the hood is a powerfull 2.7 liter, V6 engine, lots of horse power to get us where we need to go. So, just kick back and enjoy the drive.
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Been great so far - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By Adam - July 19 - 6:36 pmOnly changed tires, battery and oil...starts every time and runs great....now aat 91K miles
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My first family car! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Staci A - July 17 - 10:38 amI bought this car used and I LOVE it. We have a 2 year old in a car seat and a baby on the way, so we needed a car with plenty of room. Its got enough room in the back seat for adults to be comfortable even if front seats are pushed all the way back. I looked into foreign make cars, but ones this price range were so tiny. I get lots of compliments because even though this is our family car, it looks really nice. My dad has this car too (and hes a tough sell). The less-than- great gas mileage doesnt bother me since I work, go to church and my daughters sitter are all within a 3 mile radius of my home.
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Great car to drive with top down-or up - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By fanjan - July 12 - 4:23 pmBought this car with 8000 miles already on it during cold weather. I couldnt wait until the weather warmed up so I could drive with the top down. I wasnt disappointed! Very smooth, comfortable ride-lots of extra features including radio controls on steering wheel, heated seats and CD/Cassette/radio. Good gas mileage of about 26mpg city/highway.
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Happy to Drive - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By HappyOne - July 7 - 9:21 amWe bought the car used 6/2005 and it is fast and fun to drive. The looks are great, the ride and handling are great. The rear seat is a joke, so buy the sedan if you need a real seat, but we do not.
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Love it - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By coupe - July 5 - 12:27 amI traded my mustang in for this car and I have not regretted it. This car fits my driving needs. I am always in the car and with gas prices for high, I can get up to 350 miles from my tank! This car has to much pick up to it. Its almost like being in the fast and furious. And it looks great. Everyone is envious of my car because it just looks classy.
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Sebring - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
By K - June 29 - 3:29 pmI bought this car from my mother, who bought it new. We both have enjoyed it. My only disappointment is the sound system. The controls on the console do not work properly. Other than that it would be perfect.
