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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Great car for the dough! - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By msticks - July 30 - 10:00 amI actually traded down from a 300M to my new Sebring LXi Sedan in Inferno Red. Yes I got every possible option, but this car still listed for $6,000 less than the 300M and quite frankly rides better, performs about the same, and gets much better mileage. The thing that amazes me is that this car feels more stable on the highway, is more surefooted in inclement weather and provides ALMOST as many amenities as the 300M at a much lower price. I honestly cant understand why anyone would pay more for an intermediate 4 door sedan. This is really a great car.
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Very Good - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
By LRW - July 30 - 10:00 amWe love the car. My wife drove a Jeep Grand Cherokee until we bought this car. Now, the Sebring is "hers." We have had no problems with it and it handles very well. My only suggestion is about one more inch headroom up front. Also, there seems to be a humm that the dealer says is normal (not bad though). Otherwise, we plan on buying another in a year or two.
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Reliable and Fun - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
By BOCC03 - July 27 - 2:00 amThis is the first car since my 1964 XKE that I actually LIKE to drive. The car handles well, even though front wheel driven. ABM, AC and 150W stereo all add to the experience. Styling is excellent-dark blue exterior with Tan/Blue accent interior is unbelievable! Convertible top is good double twill weave with an interior roof. Constantly receive complements on the way the car looks.
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I love my car - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Dolores Mercer - July 25 - 2:00 amI love driving it. It handles corners really well. Smooth
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my blue beauty - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By joe branco - July 24 - 2:00 amextremely reliable. fast enough to be alot of fun to drive. great touring car. very soft ride. great handling on turns and straight roadway.
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Sebring Fever - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Hugh Beaugez - July 24 - 2:00 amThis is my fourth Sebring convertible. Its not how many miles per galleon but how many smiles per mile you get!
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Fun Car - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Allbrake - July 24 - 2:00 amJust a real fun car, has pep when you need it, and it is reliable. It always get a second look from people, its lines are sharp and it handles excellent
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tight - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By wu - July 24 - 2:00 amthe ride is off da rip. i crooz and pick up mamas in it. hey it worked for me.
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WONDER SEBRING - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By Lynda Richmond - July 24 - 2:00 amI took my Grand daughter on vacation to Tennessee. We explored the mountains in the Sebring and I couldnt believe the response and the ease of handling the sharp turns and the down grades, it never missed a beat. This is a wonderful car to drive and a fantastic car to ride in. I will never buy anything else. My Granddaughter thinks we are cool when we ride around with the top down. We are!!!
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Jims Patroit Blue Convertible - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
By jimmatt766 - July 24 - 2:00 amMy decision to buy a convertible was made before I looked at the Chrysler. What brought me to the Sebring was that it was a stylish four passanger car that gave it looks and made it functional for a family. I selected Patroit blue with a cream leather interior. This car turns heads! It is fun to drive and comfortable on extended trips. There are some interior things I would change such as the location of the front cup holders. All in all I am satisfied with the purchase.
