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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  Kudos to Chrysler - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Janet - September 8 - 12:56 pm

  We recently purchased a 2008 Sebring Coupe Touring and absolutely love it. We have been on a few road trips and love the comfort, smooth ride and great gas mileage (averaging 33 mpg). We love the looks and all of the standard upgrades. I am not sure why some would put Honda/Hyundai ahead of this (we test drove both) and hands down it is the winner!

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  Not a bad car - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Scott Roosa - September 5 - 1:22 pm

  I love to drive here in Colorado with the top down, and am able to do it often. The car handles with a great suspension and has no problems in the mountains. The issue I had was the transmission going out on me with only 35,000 miles. Fortunately it was still under the warranty, but a bit too close for my liking. It is a fun care to have and drive.

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  Whats with the bumper? - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Abby - September 5 - 9:26 am

  I have had this car for about 3 months and in general I love it. Like the review below mine sometimes it doesnt turn over when starting like it should. This happens randomly and for no apparent reason. My only major complaint is the rear bumper. I think it is made poorly and within the first month I noticed a rock had hit the underside of the tire casing and made a notch in the paint. After closer inspection I noticed that there is another part where the paint is pulling away where the metal body and plastic bumper of the car meet. You can hardly see it now but I fear in time it will grow. My biggest suggestion would be to examine your bumper before purchasing this car!

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  It reminds me of an older Honda Accord - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By jessie_harbin - September 1 - 9:11 pm

  We downgraded from a Pontiac Bonneville and just purchased our 2006 Chrysler Sebring Touring Sedan a month ago, and already its a disappointment. Dont get me wrong, for the price we got it at was a good deal but the ride quality sucks and the seats are uncomfortable. It feels like youre riding on a skate board and the transmission shifts like a standard instead of an automatic. It rides and operates like an older Honda from the 80s

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  2007 Sebring Touring - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Tracy - August 31 - 10:45 pm

  I leased my Sebring when they were brand new to the showrooms. It was a great car that handled well, has great features like Sirius satellite radio, 6 in dash CD player and most importantly UConnect. I found it so much easier to use than the Trailblazer I had. The four cylinder engine had more than enough power to take us where we were going and in the year and a half I had the car, no problems to report. The greatest concern with the car is safety. The car was in an accident which rendered it a complete loss. The car was hit head on and the air bags never went off. Thankfully my children werent in the car but I did suffer chest pain from hitting the steering wheel.

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  This car is a beatuiful beast! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Maxx - August 21 - 12:08 am

  How do I put this, how about the best car in the world! I love my sebring. Nice leather seats with multi disk all power doors Windows seats and moon roof. This car is classy, sporty, and amazing. Good for all ages and probably one of the only good American made cars out there. Id suggest the LXi and not the LX, and definitely the new bigger engine as the old one doesnt have very high acceleration for me, but its okay for my wife. Great great car, never had any problems that werent unexpected. Has 120,000 miles and still runs like new. Thank you Chrysler

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  Water problems after rain - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Regina - August 19 - 10:30 pm

  I purchased this vehicle a few weeks ago. Just got my license plate yesterday. I already want to return it. I love this car, especially the way it looks. But Im already experiencing problems. Twice the ignition made a sound when cranking as if the starter was getting ready to quit on me and the brakes makes a funny noise only when Im backing up. Now today it rained while i was at work and i hear water swishing around in the back, my husband says it sounds like its coming from the back passenger door. It sounds like a LOT of water, not a little. Although im under warranty i think im going to return it and find me something else. Beware of the Chrysler Sebring!

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  A Reliable, Efficient Car - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mike R - August 19 - 6:58 pm

  Our experience has been very positive. The most surprising was the excellent gas mileage - 29-30mpg regularly on the road. 24-25 in town. We consider this great for the performance of the engine. Everything has worked well except the seat heaters but thats not too much inconvenience. We taken this car everywhere and it drives well - up mountains, in the snow, in the desert, and along the coast. Weve put lots of bags and gear in there when family comes to visit. Were smaller people so the lower head room doesnt bother us but it would bigger people. Electronics and power options have performed well.

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  Best Buy Convertible - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By aaronelbaron - August 15 - 10:00 am

  Closing in on one year of ownership I am very pleased with this vehicle. The ride comfort and performance are balanced perfectly. You can enjoy both long trips (or commutes) and at the same time dive into a corner without worrying about losing control. The car drives faster than you feel so it is easy to exceed the speed limit. Even with the automatic, acceleration is great. This is the lowest priced true 4 seat convertible on the market, so if you must go topless, go Sebring.

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  second in a row - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By bcfromsd - August 15 - 10:00 am

  I just traded in my 2000 Sebring convertible for a new 2004, and so far I am impressed. We had no real problems with the old one- some squeeky brakes while still under warranty- so were hoping for the same this time. I like the larger wheels and overall stance. Interior isnt changed much, but the optional seat heaters are a definite hit- you can leave the top down longer if you just turn on the seat heaters, a ragtop season extender. Just a very fun car.