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 2006 Chrysler Sebring Sedan - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By Allen - August 24 - 4:03 pm

  I like my Chrysler Sebring. It handles and drives well. It has plenty of power for a four cylynder vehicle. I did expect better gas mileage which I believe should improve. At this time I only hav abour 1300 miles on my vehicle.

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  okay for cheap coupe - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mark - August 23 - 1:31 am

  Yeah those cheap chrysler rims and the brakes I fixed but it does look good! I had to tape together the bottom of the front bumper from curb and road rash, to low! Nice exhaust sound to bad it doesnt translate into horsepower although it goes if you keep your foot in it. The one thing not mentioned is this cars higher insurance rating, still Ill keep it for awhile its kinda fun. Watch out for those curbs and potholes or youll be looking for new rims!

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  Dont Buy One!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Robert - August 21 - 2:20 am

  To be honest, I enjoyed driving this car...whenever it wasnt in the shop! Its charms are purely exterior. Under that steel hood lies its glass jaw - The Engine. Mine is toast after 50,000 miles. (Coincidentally it was just paid off 2 weeks ago) This was a maintained vehicle that averaged 10,000 mi/yr, mostly highway & light usage. BTW Ive already had this thing in the shop on numerous occasions to the tune of over $3000 in repairs which they obviously never got right. Dont let the slick packaging fool you, as you can see by the other comments- Sebring=Bad car buy! Also- Larry Roesch Chrysler is just about as customer friendly as snakes on a plane, but your money is better spent at the theater!

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  Been Very Happy - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By Been Very Happy - August 14 - 11:02 am

  I bought my 2000 Sebring JXI new. The vehicle is now 6 years old and has 84,000 miles on it. I am very particular, changed the oil and filters religously. The car looks and runs like it just came off the showroom floor. I have changed the brakes and rotors, battery, serviced the trans and cooling system, basic maintenance you expect to keep a car purring. The only problem I had was the sensor on the trans failed which was under warranty. The wires connecting the rear defroster failed several times, so I gave up on that. The sun visor clips broke several times, no big deal inexpensive items to replace and change out easily. The sound system is excellent for stock. Love my car. I recommend.

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  33 Miles per gal at 60 mph highway - 2000 Chrysler Sebring
  By KEITH - August 12 - 5:29 pm

  2000 chysler sebring jxi This car was a program car. It had 17,000 miles on it when I got it. The only thing I have had to do is replace the tires,oil change (synthetic oil), brakes battery a/c and belt. No tune needed yet. I dont think that is too bad for 132,000 miles and getting 33 miles per gallon @ 60 mph / 26.3 miles per gallon @ 79.5 mph and it is running strong. Thank you Chysler

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  SEbring 1999 - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By John - August 12 - 12:28 pm

  Auto was ok except for rims. During the time I have owned the car I had to replace 7 rims.

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  the best car made - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By jeff bryan - August 11 - 8:22 am

  My wife and i have really enjoyed the car it has not given us any problems and handles very good. We will be buying another sebring.... very dependable automobile.

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  Owner - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ben Kermmoade - August 10 - 2:18 pm

  Although this vehicle was a gift, I feel it is a lot of car for the amount it was listed at. The car would have been more pleasing to the sight had the manufacturer added a little "class" to the interior design, such as the trim on the dash. It is a fun car to drive!

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  Good Car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By hwy driver - August 8 - 1:51 pm

  I have had this car for 3 years now and put 140 miles a day on it driving back and forth to work. Im up to 110,000 miles now. Gas mileage has been good at 28 mpg. Comfort is great. Sound system rocks. Only issues have been some stupid electrical problems. Relay for blower heater motor went bad once and the Windshield Washer pump seemed weak in the winter time. Other than that its been oil changes, tires, and breaks.

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  My daily driver for 2.5 yrs so far - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Dr. Bob - August 4 - 9:30 am

  I have truly enjoyed having this car for the last 2.5 years. It is roomy enough to have 3 friends in, and it definitely has enough power when I need it. Im going to be keeping it until my 40th birthday (in 2010) and then may actually get another one as my 40th B-day present to myself. Im looking forward to the hardtop option coming out.