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:

• 

  I simply love it. - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Loveit - September 20 - 6:55 am

  At the age of 62 - and after only God knows how may different cars - I have finally found the one I absolutely love. When I bought it, I frankly did so for the looks and comfort - which are both outstanding. Since then, I have grown to love it for the great vehicle it is. I was afraid of getting a 4 cylinder but decided to go for it for the mileage. I have been happy to find the pickup to be wonderful. I highly recommend it to anyone who wants good looks and great performance.

• 

  2007 Sebring Limited - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By Chris - September 15 - 11:21 pm

  This car is a significant improvement over the last generation. I have the 3.5 V6. It is super-quick and fun to drive. The seats could be a little more comfortable. The gas mileage isnt as great but I wanted the big engine. I like the four-door Crossfire look and the interior design. The Limited is worth looking into if the wallet will let you. Fit and finish could be a shade better but overall an excellent car.

• 

  Still Love It, 5 Years Later - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Tracey - September 12 - 8:52 pm

  Bought my 02 Chrysler Sebring 4D Sedan brand new for just under $16K. No problems except for a bad battery. Comfy car, great stereo, smooth ride. Only complaint is gas mileage. With stop and go traffic in Atlanta, I only get about 21/22 miles per gallon. But, other than that, Im a happy customer. Will probably buy a Sebring convertible when (if??) my 02 ever wears out... this is the first non- import car Ive ever owned and I have no complaints!

• 

  Sebring - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Dan - September 11 - 7:57 am

  This car is no fun to drive. The four cylinder version has absolutely no pick-up, although the RPMs always come close to redlining. Overall, a sad car to drive.

• 

  Best car I have owned...love my Chrysler - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Michele Hurchla - September 10 - 7:01 pm

  I have owned nice cars but this car is the top.I have owned my car for about 4 years. I love my 2006 sebring touring. Fantastic car, i love the size not too big or too small. Runs like a charm with normal relacement of parts. Its actually really good in the winter. Safety has airbags all around car. I live in the country and drive mostly highway 22-25 miles per gallon. Cant really find any negative. I just hit 170,000 miles and this baby is like the energizer bunny. Im not kidding. My daughter keeps saying mom why dont you get a new car. I said because I dont need one. I love my car. She sees all the fancy cars out there. What the difference is they have 400.00 car pymts and i dont. I havent had a car payment in over ten years. So I have to laugh when I was younger always thought I needed new car at 70,000 but my Chrysler has proved me wrong. Chrysler please make this same model car again.

• 

  Beware the timing belt - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By Joey Redeye - September 7 - 4:21 pm

  Dont buy one of these used unless you can be sure the timing belt has been recently replaced. The belt is supposed to last 105K miles, but they frequently break earlier. Its a major repair and can lead to complete engine failure. Handling is a little loose. Brakes are squishy. Road noise way too excessive, even for a convertible.

• 

  2007 Sebring touring vehicle - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By MARGARET - September 5 - 6:32 pm

  The car is very roomy. The gas mileage was a major factor in purchasing the vehicle. Gas mileage averaging around 27 mpg, that includes city and highway driving. I got the touring model. First front wheel drive vehicle I owned, I like it. I would recomend this vehicle to family and friends.

• 

  Awesome Vehicle - 2007 Chrysler Sebring
  By DAN - August 29 - 10:05 am

  Chrysler has completely outdone themselves with re-designing the 07 Sebring. There isnt much leg room in the back seating area and the sound system wasnt as good as I thought it would be. Other than those 2 minor things.. I absolutely love everything about this car and if youre thinking about purchasing one.. dont think any more. Go out, get your best price and buy it!

• 

  Fun to drive - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By RJO - August 17 - 7:46 am

  Got mine on june 19 - now has 4500 miles- tops been up and down a hundred times and it works fine. It is a hard top. Got 26.1mpg on a trip on interstate highways and around town 20 to 22 mpg. It is a fun car 2 drive and the top going down turns heads. I put two carry golfbags in trunk w/top down.

• 

  Be Careful of The Convertible Top - 2008 Chrysler Sebring
  By PhillyPa - August 16 - 10:09 pm

  I have had this car for two months and 3000 miles. Its left me stranded twice so far. When putting the roof down, the trunk did not close (twice now). Roadside asst. will not tow it with the trunk open. You have to drive it very slowly back to te dealership with the truck open like a sail. Ive been waiting two weeks now for parts to have it fixed. I also have a 2001 Sebring with 122,000 mile and had no problems with it. Needless to say, this model is a huge let down so far. Hopefully, I wont be too far from home the next time it breaks.