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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  sebring - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By gavinl2003nj - July 24 - 2:00 am

  excellent. no improvements needed in this top of the line convertible. excellent thats all there is to say. #1 chrysler product

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  Love it - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By David Lewis - July 24 - 2:00 am

  I loved driving that car. Easily the best value for the dollar. Had all kinds of compliments from strangers. Too bad it was stolen

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  Sebring Convert. - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By drva sebring - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Owned vehicle 4 months. Not a blemish or a mechanical problem yet. I think Chrysler may have finally got their act together

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  More fun than a Mercedes - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By JohnnieA - July 24 - 2:00 am

  The Chrysler sebring convertible that replaced my E320 is more fun to drive and I feel actually handles better than any of my previous 3 Mercedes. It also less expensive to run.

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  Sebring Convertable Review - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Chas. Wells - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Rides well - handles well and gets good mileage. Has been reliable in the five months we have had it.

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  Excellent car! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By elenav4 - July 24 - 2:00 am

  A great family car. Something you can feel young in and safe!

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  IMPECCABLE CONVERTIBLE - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By BarbiePrincessM - July 15 - 2:00 am

  I have owned a number of vehicles, but nothing has surpassed by 99 jxi convertible. The interior design is ingenius along with the attractive exterior. extremely reliable, was never in the shop. could not have asked for a better automobile.

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  2003 Sebring - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mr. C - July 12 - 2:00 am

  The car is fun to drive, gets excellent gas mileage, and rides very comfortably. It has plenty of power, and handles well. The interior is very roomy and seats four comfortably. Trunk space is a bit limited, but fold down rear seats reduce that problem.

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  mint car!! - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By dodgeman76 - July 8 - 2:00 am

  i havnt had this carfor very long but i already am in love with it. it has amazing acceleration and handling. love the wood look on the dash.

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  My first Car - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By alex1_v - June 11 - 2:00 am

  Been driving this car since Sep. of 2000. Great 200HP engine that gives enough power for normal day to day driving. If put little over 47,000 mles on the car and only major mechanical problem was that I had to replace the brakes. Good sporty look and great handling. To add a little more Horse Power would recommend getting a Cold intake system for the engine.