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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MY Babys Review - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
By ShannonCRamirez - December 10 - 10:00 amI love my car. I have had it for 2 years and never had any problems with it at all. The only thing I cant do in it is take it to the drive through car wash as it will make it leak. It has a lot of get up and go, as I do have the LXi option with a v6 engine. The top is easy to lower, and is automatic with the push of a button. I only have to unlatch the top. I will always drive a Chrysler if the are all as reliable and fun to drive as my Sebring LXi Convertible!
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Sebring LXi - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By bkr1222 - December 8 - 2:00 amI really enjoy driving the 2002 Sebring LXi. The engine performance has been great. My one complaint is the turning radius. It makes very wide turns which makes manuevering difficult. Overall, the Sebring LXi is very enjoyable. It is sporty, yet comfortable.
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Not a powerhouse but smooth ride - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
By KC MOM - December 6 - 12:20 pmAfter 12 years of driving a Firebird convertible I finally faced the fact it would not last forever. With 2 junior high aged kids I was looking for a used car with enough backseat legroom for 2 5 foot tall+ kids and a reasonable price, as we will have 2 teen drivers soon so didnt want to spend a fortune on a new car. Looking at Carfax, a lot of the late model Sebrings were former rentals, but was finally able to find a low miles one owner 05 for 10 grand less than new.
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The best car - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
By teenager - November 29 - 8:29 pmI love this car even though my friends say it is a chick car. I have had no problems with the vehicle except that it is stalling a little at 90,000 miles. I bought the car with 69,000 miles. I would buy this car again. I like this styling better than the newer ones.
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Happy with my car - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
By BOB RADZEVICH - November 23 - 8:00 pmI was attracted to my new Sebring shown from the dealer window. The body is very smart and eye catching. Overall looks are great.car has a larger look than competitors. Roof operation is clever and works well. Fit is perfect. Fun to show. Car has heavy, safe feel. Handles well. Trunk space adequate. Overall nice car
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An Economy Luxury Vehicle - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
By MikeInCA - November 17 - 6:52 pmThe 4 cyl Sebring is an attractive if somewhat basic car. The interior is well designed and presents well. Its cruise control, remote entry/trunk release and power locks/windows/mirrors provide the basic luxury youd expect, but thats about it. The MP3 stereo is a nice touch. The MPG is as advertised. There is a recall on a part that can cause a high pitch whine while driving, though its not advertised anywhere (my car has 24k miles on it). The 4 cyl is surprisingly spunky, offering some thrill factor, but not off the line. The 2007 Sebring 4 cyl offers basic luxury in an attractive package for a reasonable price. In todays gas market, its not a bad alternative to the V6s.
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1st Convertible, Its Great - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By CMS - November 14 - 1:23 pmOur Sebring Convertible is now 1 year old and we love it. Living in the Chicago area handling is very important and it handles great in all weather. Considering it is a rag top it is also very quiet. All controls are handy to the drive and passenger. The V6 allows interstate driving with ease. The biggest arugment we have over this car is, who will drive it.
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10 Month Review - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By LtdOwner - November 12 - 2:00 amOnly one problem: extremely high wind noise with the top up. A low roaring wind noise comes through the top front and a whistling noise from around the windows. Sounds like youre at the airport watching jets take off! Loud wind noise is due to poor seal with the top front clips and the rubber seals around the windows not sealing tightly. Dealership adjusted windows and the top front clips which greatly reduced the noise but it came came back after a few days of driving. Its actually quieter driving with the top down! Before you buy take it down the freeway with the top and windows up to make sure yours doesnt also sound like youre in a wind tunnel.
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propespective buyer - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By sb coupe - November 12 - 2:00 amgood car for the money.
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Fantastic Car - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
By mike - November 9 - 6:49 pmWe decided to give the Sebring Limited a try as a midsize. The major imports we looked at seemed to be getting bloated and were just plain boring(No spark). The car is just the right size, has great styling and handles extremely well. Twisty roads are a real blast with the precision steering and suspension. The 3.5l engine has lots of power and has a pleasant tone when you get your foot into it. Weve had the car for about 4 months now and it has been trouble free. The build quality is excellent and the interior design is pleasant and unique with high quality material. The seats are very comfortable. Were expecting great service out of this car like our old LHS, +100k and no troubles
