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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  Stylish experience - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mopar - August 10 - 8:13 pm

  I originally wanted a Stratus R/T but ran across the sebring in the back of a lot so I took it. Iv had it for 2 years now and the only problem I have had with it (150,000 miles) is the sway bar bushings, lower ball joints and a small leak in the flex pipe. But it has 150,000 miles what do you expect? It doesnt have much power for a v-6 but I put a air intake, exhaust system and after market plugs and wires and I noticed a big difference. It sits low, seats are kinda hard, turning radius isnt perfect and there arent 4 cup holders because its a coupe sports car not a full size luxury car! It looks sharp, handles awesome, very reliable. Very happy I got it, love the looks I get from everyone.

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  Love hate relationship - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Heather - August 9 - 8:20 pm

  This is my 3rd convertible. I love it. The problem Im having is starting the car. It doesnt just turn over like a new car should. It drags while trying to start. It starts every time but sometimes Im not sure its going to. The dealership tells me they cant reproduce the problem. Im so frustrated. Anyone else have this problem? I would love some input.

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  Chrysler forgot to sweat a few details - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ragtopian - August 9 - 8:28 am

  Rented on a business trip. Quiet, stable ride and strong brakes. Wind buffeting strong at interstate speeds, buzzing the back shoulder belt straps. Annoying cruise control stalk. Trunk very heavy and not counterbalanced enough. You can strike your head on the trunk edge if you lean over before ensuring it is fully raised. Center armrest short and too far back. Wheel too far away compared to pedal position. Problems with the temp control. No matter what position, it would suddenly blast full heat. It had to be moved to full cool to cancel max heat. 12 V plug too close to shift lever in P. Seat back spring is too powerful: releasing lever makes it slam forward. Engine loud at full throttle.

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  Good Car Not Fun Car - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Good Car - August 1 - 9:55 pm

  I bought this car 7/25/08 fixed it up a bit but not totally. A 7 speed Manual Transmission will be added. The car has averaged 35.3 MPG. during break in period which is not bad.I did not buy this car for fun. For fun I drive my 1972 Triumph TR-6, Test drove through rental outfits a day each, Honda and Toyota small and same sized cars, this beats them hands down. I drive with windows partly open and never listen to a radio since 1995.I listen to the car I am driving. This car holds the road.It is a gas saver. I think I will keep it quite sometime, too bad Chrysler hasnt promoted this one more, they really should.

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  I love my car, but... - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Shelly - July 27 - 2:13 pm

  My mom and I had to finance this car due to my Baby Girl being in the hospital and my 97 Escort being out of commission. I love my car, it had 52,903 miles on it when I bought it in October 2004, in March 2005 I had to repair the transmission to the tune of 1,300 dollars, I have since put 1,200 into it repairing/replacing tie rods, ball joints, brakes, brake hoses, strut components, oh and you cant easily obtain some of the most important safety components, such as strut mounts, I recently had to buy a used pair of struts from a junkyard because the mounts rotted out on mine, and 9,681 other peoples Sebring and this part is on backorder until at least August 11th (possibly September.)

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  Watch out for electrical fire - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By kim porter - July 26 - 10:10 am

  I was just getting used to the car, driving it back and forth to work, one fine day on my way home, I stopped at my local home improvement store, I got out of the car, and walked into the store, within minutes my car had caught fire. So be careful there is something going on with this car, that Chrysler has not recognized as of yet. If anyone else has had this problem please call Chrysler and inform them of this problem.

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  My Sebring Experience... - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Joshua - July 21 - 12:47 pm

  I got this car for my 16th birthday, it was pretty cheap and looked ok, i took it to the shop for the mechanic to check it out and it was ok. Then I learned that it leaks, A LOT when there are hard rains. It soaks into the floor board and starts smelling god awful. Also this shorted out my passenger side speaker. I drives ok. But now Im 18 and look for something that will not shake when I start it. I would seriously think before buying another convertible.

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  Cant beat this car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Danz76 - July 21 - 10:00 am

  This care gets nonstop complimets. Ive had friends (and more importantly, members of the opposite sex) tell me they how much they like this car, more than even the lofty BMW 325i!! A real value, fun to drive, and some very unexpected high grade features that uou wouldnt expect in this price range.

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  Buyer beware!!! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Arnis Pocs - July 21 - 10:00 am

  I actually have an older model and it blows. Once it hit the 36,000 mile mark it fell apart. Ive had two transmisions in 1 and 1/2 years put in. Everything theyve fixed has to get redone within 13 months. 2 transmisions, 3 CV jonts, 4 batteries, 3 lateral arms,5 cd players, the front and rear brakes were done and both had to be replaced in 10 months. I tried to contact Chrysler and they tell me I should have had the work done at a dealer. I DID!!! They will not stand behind their work. Ive talked to a few mechanics and other Sebring owners and aparently the transmision is a common problem with this car. Ill never buy a Chrysler again.

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  A great cheap car - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mark T - July 20 - 11:02 pm

  Still have my 2002 Sebring, 180,000 mi, runs great! Was somewhat afraid to buy this car after reading reviews, but in Real World Driving ( I have to pay for it, put the gas in it, and Not get speeding tickets) I went ahead and am definitely more than pleased. Great mileage (ave. 32 mpg, mostly hwy driving) lots of room for large people, great power seats, and everybody loves the looks. As for the interior, yes its a bit hard in spots, but in my experience Ive found that in the long term, Chrysler interiors hold up very well. The four cylinder has adequate acceleration, and is dead quit on the highway. I think for the price you cant beat this car.