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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Fun Car to Drive - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Wade - December 29 - 6:43 pmI have had my Sebring for a year now and I love it. I bought it with 30k. I did have some problems with the mileage odometer not working properly, it would flash NO BUS. This happened right at 35k and was repaired by a Chrysler Dealership at no charge of course. I was just wondering if anyone else has had problems with the A/C. Sometimes the A/C will stop blowing cold air and it feels like just the vent is on. If you tap the dash, however, the A/C kicks right back on. I thought this was kinda weird and wondering if this was a problem that other Sebring owners have had. Other than that I love my car.
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My 2003 Coupe - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By flyerfan - December 29 - 1:11 pmGreat car overall. Sits low to the ground, so obviously not too easy to handle in the snow. Excellent pickup speed. Love the 4 CD changer
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I love it - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
By Kayleigh - December 28 - 9:51 pmThis was my first car. I bought it from a previous owner and I was soo happy with it. Not too shabby for a first car I must say. Very fast, and great looking. The only thing I didnt like was the front bottom panel got really bent from being so low to the ground. The only reason I am getting rid of it is because Im going to need something better in the snow to go to college with. Im going to miss this car sooo much, it has never left me stranded and Im going to sell it to a family member so it wont be going too far. Buy this car if you ever come across one, you wont be disappointed.
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Sebring - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By RBSFINDUM2 - December 19 - 7:18 pmI needed to get this for a payoff for a 98 Buick Riviera that was totaled. So far I love it. It is a good all around sedan. The dual overhead cam makes for enough h/p for the basic driving. I think it will have good- enough gas mileage for all the trips I enjoy. Big trunk, roomy seats and cruise control is all I need for a trip car. It will last for at least 100,000 miles. I now have 2146 on it.
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Sebring Sedan - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By kmumm - December 7 - 10:00 amLX with the V6 is a blast on those twisty turns in the country.
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A Bargain Mid-size Car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By Oldengineer - December 5 - 2:38 amI recently purchased an 05 Sebring Touring-Signature Edition. For the money, Camry and Accord couldnt even get close on price. Quality, fit, and finish are excellent. Car has the 2.7 V6, giving it decent performance and excellent fuel economy. Ride and handling are very good. The body styling is very eye-catching and looks great in a dark blue mettalic color. The car is very quiet on the interstate and solidy built. The dash styling, while improved on the 05, still doesnt look as modern as Accord or Camry. However, since, with rebates and the special package, the car cost about $8k less than a comparable Japanese car, I couldnt pass it up.
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From a Jeep to a Sebring Sedan - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By New Sebring Girl - December 1 - 10:00 amBeing 23, I always saw Sebrings as a car for people in the their mid-40s. I was very pleasantly surprised when I test drove my Sebring Sedan. Coming from a Jeep Wrangler/6 cyl/5 speed, I thought it would be very difficult going to a 4 cyl. automatic. However, it was a very natural transition. I feel very at home in my new car. The Sedan is surprisingly roomy, very comforable for drivers & passengers, and I must say has a very sleek design. My family has taken great joy to say I have finally "grew up and bought an adult car"., and my new Sebring is my "big girl" car. Well, to them I say: just because it looks adult, does not mean it is not fun!
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2004 Touring Sedan - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By Lolo - December 1 - 1:28 amBeautiful Car. Quickly realized that I did not feel like I was driving a grandma car, which I thought I might. Very comfortable. Doors need a little slamming to close all the way which I feel uncomfortable with, but overall a nice car to own.
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Review of Sebring - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By BMMgirl - November 24 - 3:28 pmI enjoy my Sebring, and I suggest that anyone that is looking for a sleek, comfortable car with nice features and a roomy ride get a Sebring
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Topless Fun - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By fastmom - November 13 - 2:00 amI love the design and exterior lines. Color package is awesome. Nothing feels better than the top down, seat warmers on. Love it!
