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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The Best !!! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By friedo82 - June 18 - 2:00 amI have not had a single problem with this vehicle, and Ive had it for 2 years and 30,000 miles. It drives great and is very comfortable. I have every option except leather and the total price was about 23,000, wich is great for a premium coupe. It is an overall beautiful vehicle and i find it much more attractive than the new 03s with the different front bumper and dash. The older dash in the 01 and 02s were much more sporty.
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Great Car - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
By uarisk - June 9 - 2:00 amAwesome vehicle. Never had to fix a thing in 4 years outside of normal ear items.
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starr - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By paul starr - June 9 - 2:00 amLet me just say that the only problem encountered after 69000 miles has been a headlight bulb. I have noticed the autotransmission sometimes seems to misshift. I am going to take it in for an alignment and have that checked. It has been a great little car. The average mileage is 27.4mpg So it actually getting better mileage than stated on the sticker. I have always used regular fuel. Paint is great on the car. Good stereo. Leather seats are very good. I certainly would by another sebring lxi if the styling and quality are equal to what my car has been
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Great Car - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
By Larryran - May 27 - 2:00 amThe Sebring Convertible is an exceptional car. I purchased mine in Sept 1997, and still own it. Tire life of the original Michelin tires was 75000 miles, and it has never needed an alignment. The replacement Michelins now have 50000 miles on them, and appear good for at least another 20000. The 2.5L V6 SOHC 24V FI engine gas milage ranges from 21 (city) to 31 mpg. Average road mpg is 28. Total maintenance cost has been from normal maintenance (oil, filter, 60000 mile transmission service, 100000 mile tuneup, and 3 sets of brake pads).
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Awesome car! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By amw1 - May 24 - 2:00 amA great car for the money!!! Wonderful purchase for under $10k.....especially compared to the alternatives (Civic, Neon, Focus, Taurus, etc.). Drives like a dream!
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coupe - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By justin - May 19 - 10:00 amGraet fun car to drive. Exceptional value.
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damn good car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By gmalexander - May 15 - 10:00 amThis is a very good vechile for both on the road and in town. Gas milage is acceptable and the top is an extremely easy up and down.
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Fun - but reasonable - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By fasteddie40 - May 15 - 10:00 amIve really enjoyed my Sebring Convertible - My second one now - Great performance, stylish, fun to drive - no problems with maintenance or reliability - A#1 in my book - especially for the value
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Very fullfilling...extremely satisfied - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By Veronica NJ - April 17 - 2:00 amMy Sebring definetely filled my expectations. It is a beautiful, stylish, elegant, and not too sporty vehicle that is very fun to drive. The gas mileage is great. There is enough room to fit 3 people in the back with comfortable leg room. The seatbelts are extremely comfortable, you hardly notice them. The top comes down smoothly. The sound system is powerful, this can be especially noticed when the top is down and the car is being driven in the highway. I give this car a 10.
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Suh-weet! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Jenny Wentz - April 13 - 2:00 amThis car is so much fun to drive- it really goes! Not only does the inside look super nice, but the outside is sporty and sleek too. It drives really well in snow b/c it has front wheel drive and its even low pro! And the factory sound system will blow your mind it sounds so good! I wanted a reliable car that I could keep for a few years but also one that would look good too. They really matched the colors nicely. Mine is silver and has some silver interior along with the black. This car is super awesome, I tell you no lies!
