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:

• 

  Ok Folks, this is an awesome/fun vehicle - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By ShutEye Thinkin - January 28 - 9:14 pm

  Researched the Touring convertibles. Test-drove several, looking for one that showed excellent engine,transmission,brake,driving performance. Finally found a dealership trade-in 1-owner with 1.5 years warranty left. Amazing. Great V6 power, great maneuvering, Great steering, quality on manufacturing excellent, not what Ive been used to reading about. Been driving around in 40 deg temps with top down and heat on, and getting off big-time. Everyone I take for a drive has felt the same. I now understand those who say when youve gone convertible, you never go back to a standard car. Black body, black top, black interior, just visually tantalizing, folks. The 10s on-demand roof is the kicker

• 

  My Sebring - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jim Webb - January 26 - 12:41 pm

  Very nice shape and preformance. I really like the pick-up-and-go of the car. When I go to pass someone it do NOT bog down, it jumps up and goes. Comfort is great also. Look and feel is super.

• 

  Worst car I have ever had! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Kimberly - January 21 - 6:40 pm

  My car only has 51,000 mi. on it and I have to replace the engine! There are more people that have had this problem as well! do not get this car! unless you enjoy putting $5,000 into your car just to have it die on you again.

• 

  Try before you buy - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By Jim - January 18 - 1:01 pm

  After owning my 98 Sebring LXi for almost a year now, I can honestly say I am very pleased with my decision. The key, if you are thinking about purchasing a Sebring coupe, make sure you test it out and test it quite extensively. Transmissions are an achilles heel so ensure shifts are smooth at numerous RPM settings. The 2.5 V6 is silky smooth - just be sure to replace the timing belt around 100,000 miles to ensure everything keeps going for another 100,000. Sure, there are a few minor niggles but the sheer fact that these cars are packed with some features now seen on premium luxury cars (garage door opener, auto-dim mirror, etc.) makes a used Sebring an incredibly good deal.

• 

  I love my car - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By samm - January 11 - 7:07 pm

  I had a 1996 Sebring convertible before and I was very satisified. I felt the new style was not as sleek as the old models, but after driving this one, I feel that the car performs and feels much better. It is more solid and drives with less floting than the older model. I am glad I did not let my sence of design be the only thing that ruled my purchase. My husband is a big man and fits better in this car. I love my car..........

• 

  Perfect choice!! - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By TopDownFun - January 7 - 11:57 pm

  I had searched for quite a while looking for the right size convertible that would be used as a primary driver. The other brands did not have the room or options that the Sebring did. After the first test drive I was in love Almost coming up on two years now with 56K miles owning this car I have yet to have any maintainence problems. Or for that fact anything to complain about. It was the right choice for the right price. Thumbs up to Chrysler for a great product!!

• 

  2006 Chrysler Sebring Limited Convert - 2006 Chrysler Sebring
  By rdc - January 4 - 2:26 am

  For the price, its a great little car. Four adults can actually fit in this convertible - great for our two grandkids. Better ride than I expected and quieter than I expected. This is our Florida car and the top is rarely up.

• 

  Stylin Sebring - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Angie - January 2 - 4:33 pm

  Overall, this has been a great car. Its been very reliable, and I love the pick-up of the 3.0 V6. I get compliments on the body style all the time, and the black paint looks so sleek! Well, it used to until it recently started to fade and oxidize like you wouldnt believe. Especially on the roof and trunk. Dealer said theyd cover the cost of repainting those areas, so well see how that goes. Other than the paint, its been a great car, and Ive had no major problems.

• 

  Bravo Chrysler for a Value Car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Shawn - December 27 - 1:31 am

  We bought this car new over my wifes continuous objections she wanted a BMW or SUV. Since we are not truck drivers and with two small kids, I decided on this car due to value, space, design and reputation. The car has served us very well. I would rather spend my money on something more meaningful than a stupid car especially since my kids have turned the back seat in to a drive- in restaurant. I love the gas mileage and handling even though I am a speed enthusiast at heart. The only repair on the car has been the break pads and we had a problem with the A/C that was fixed for $125. The foregoing is after almost four years and 29,000 local driving miles. You can not go wrong for the money.

• 

  LOVE THIS CAR - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By JDH - December 26 - 10:00 am

  This car is an absolute joy to drive. The head-turning quotient is just incredible, and its still the coolest way to get around on an 80 degree day. Heated seats are a nice touch in the winter, and the V-6 pulls just enough to get up and go.