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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  Bad - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By gm3 - October 18 - 8:13 pm

  V4 base model. Too much engine noise on local, and wind noise on highway. Bad fuel economy. Bad goverment EPA pollution score.

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  2001 LXI COUPE - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By MARC LOSITO - October 18 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE A 2DR LXI COUPE, V6, 5 SPD. IT HAS ENOUGH GET UP AND GO FOR THE FAMILY MAN BUT ENOUGH ROOM FOR THE FAMILY. AND ON THE OPEN ROAD IT HAS EXCELLENT ACCELERATION AND POWER. INTERIOR FEATURES AND ERGONOMICS ARE EXCELLENT. COMFORT IS A MUST AND WITH THE 2001 CHRYSLER SEBRING YOULL GET IT

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  2005 Sebring Convertible 2.7 L 6Cyl - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Steve Hirsch - October 10 - 5:58 pm

  I have a red exterior with black top and chrome wheels, Touring model. Gets a comment from everyone that sees it. Fun, fun car to drive. Cannot complain except for suspension problems (bumpy ride, shakes when going on unfinished roads), but will have it checked out. However features and performance make up for suspension problem. Heated driver and passenger seats a plus, along with 6 CD automatic stereo system.

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  Dont count on it . . . or Chrysler - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By Hoovey - October 10 - 9:14 am

  This is my first Chrysler, and it will certainly be my last. Dont get me wrong - I love the looks of the car, but looks sure arent everything. I have had problems with my Sebring since I purchased it. First it was the engine. No one ever seemed to be able to find the problem when the engine light came on every 4-6 months. Now its the paint job, which is fading fast on the top and trunk. Dont expect any help from Chrysler either. Under warranty or not, the problems are yours to fix and worry about. For a company that relies on customers, their customer service is anything but. Take my advice (as I wish I had taken from others before I bought this car) - dont buy a Chrysler!

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  2004 Sebring Limited - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Debby H - October 2 - 10:00 am

  Having had a 2000 Sebring Limited, I felt I knew what I was in for....smooth driving, comfort and reliablity. This puppy has more pick up than the my 2000 had. I am a wee bit disappointed in the passenger window of my 2004 Limited though. I have a leak! The seating is comfortable and the passengers have no complaints. Overall I love the new 2004.

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  very fun car - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By memyself&i - September 26 - 10:00 am

  very fun car. 2.7 6cyl. has enough oompf to get you where you need to go.

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  2004 LIMITED SEBRING CONVERTIBLE - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By gllarrabee - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Just in the 3 weeks we have had the car I can say I am really impressed. I bought it for the wife for her birthday, its blue with a tan top. The car almost drives itself. and its fun putting the top down and going for a drive. We have already gone to Montery, Pebble Beach, and lake Tahoe. The car just wants to go for a ride, so we havnt been home the last three week-ends. I like the auto stick for hills and curves. It also has a secure feeling ride. This is the first Chrysler I have ever owned and Im glad I took a chance, very suprised with it all the way around.

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  Dont miss out on fun with comfort - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Rakrak - September 26 - 10:00 am

  I waited for a convertible that was reasonably priced, good looking, reliable. I wanted the top to move up and down easily without much air noise. This is it! I love this automobile and now everyone wants to ride in MY car. The sound system is good and I can talk in a normal voice to the front passenger when the top is down. I was amazed at the gas mileage.

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  super fun car - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By james - September 24 - 12:18 am

  i love this car !!! i have worked in the auto industry for twenty years and i find this car to be the most fun car to drive. i would recomend this car if you want to seat four people in the car and it is roomy enough for all four to be comfortable.

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  Affordable Luxury! - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Bret - September 23 - 2:30 am

  My last car was a 98 Cirrus. 124,000 miles and never a single problem until my girlfriend totalled it. I had set out to buy a 300c, but I didnt care for its chopped shorty windshield and the boxed-in" feeling I had when seated in it. (I was really used to the cab-forward design of the Cirrus) Jerry Reneau Chrysler/Dodge in Paso Robles, California had a beautiful Magnesium Pearl Coat Sebring Limited with Leather/Suede, a Moonroof and all the bells and whistles. I test drove the Pacifica, Magnum, 300c and the Sebring just blew me away! Im 64" so interior space is a major concern for me, and I ride comfortably with plenty of legroom/headroom. I am completely satisfied with my Sebring.