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 - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By K - June 29 - 3:29 pm

  I bought this car from my mother, who bought it new. We both have enjoyed it. My only disappointment is the sound system. The controls on the console do not work properly. Other than that it would be perfect.

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  Excellent Vehicle - Expensive to Repair - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By MN_LXi_Pilot - June 28 - 10:22 pm

  This is the best car I have EVER owned, and Ive owned a few in my short time. Performs relatively well, although the 2.5L V6 is anemic at around 160 HP. Handling is great, performs well is most situations, but does tend to exhibit slight understeer qualities, but the length of the wheelbase helps to keep it contained. Now I have over 165,000 miles on it... and these were not your putt putt grandma miles either... I beat the crap out of my cars. Dont feel bad though because I do take care of them, obviously. 150000 before I needed to replace the infamous A604 atransmission. Even now with 165000 it runs just as strong as when I bought it. "Dime" repairs now... time to sell. Ill miss it

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  First Car - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By Sean - June 28 - 9:26 pm

  This car was a great first car. The major problem that I had with the car was that everything started to break at aroung 75,000 miles. The air-conditioner is a real problem. I had it fixed once, but it broke again a year later. The compressor broke in two. That is a fundamental design problem. Also this car is very expensive to fix. I would suggest if you like the looks of this car get a newer one and trade it in before it reaches 75,000 miles. If you are on the tall side the seat may be a little uncomfortable on long trips. It tends to round your shoulders forward which on short trips is fine, but it really starts to hurt your back after a while.

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  This is the third sebring we have owned, - 1999 Chrysler Sebring
  By ben plexico - June 20 - 9:51 am

  This car has been very reliable and a great car . We just purchased a Toyota and like it too. But the sebring has not had any expensive repairs and runs very well. It has 72,000 miles and still gets 29 mph on the road. V-6 performance is good, but I would not purchase one for a teenager.

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  Biggest Mistake - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By TB - June 18 - 6:37 pm

  This car seemed like a great investment at 60,000 miles. It was initially very fun to drive, the pick up was great. Then one thing after another started to go: power locks, power seat, brake problems, the wheel literally fell off of the axle, the struts needed to be replaced, the transmission is going, cruise control works sometimes when it wants to and sometimes shuts my car off, problems with the battery connectors... Ive put way too much money into this car. Also, the seats are not comfortable for long trips and theres very little cup holder space.

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  Great car for a great price - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By D Hansen - June 15 - 12:47 pm

  The build quality is very good. It does suffer some cowl shake but it is a convertible so some should be expected. The Magnesium Pearl Coat finish is flawless as is the detail on the interior. There is plenty of room in the back seat for all but the tallest of people. With the top up, it is a handsome couple with a finished interior headliner.

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  what I have - 2001 Chrysler Sebring
  By silver2002 - June 12 - 1:07 am

  well not to many things to report, other then a few things that well I see as if it where done right the first time then there would be no problems. but other then that, I love my sebring, never though that would be something that I would say, but more and more these days Ima thinking of moving to a differnt car company more and more every day,

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  Cant get enough of my baby! - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Lynda from Phila - June 10 - 2:51 pm

  Its my 3rd Sebring which says alot! Ive had no problems with anything. Its so roomier,sleaker lines,drives far more smoother than my Mustang convert. Great gas mileage.Ive had 64 spinal surgeries & am perm. disabled & I am able to drop the top with ease.The luxury package, which includes heated front seats,is awesome!You can comfortably seat 4 adults, adequate trunk space,& a superb drive.Handles well.The lines of the car are so classy whether the top is up/down.Its a car for the person who doesnt want to pay the price,ins. or maintanence for the higher end converts & you dont sacrifice a thing!Its very youthful & classy with a modest price considering all that you receive!

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  sebring convertible is great - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By sebring - June 7 - 6:53 pm

  I love this vehicle. it is my second sebring convertible and I rated better than a mustang convertible which I have also owned. More room and leg room than others in this price range.

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  My Sebring - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Raphael - June 6 - 5:21 pm

  Purchased this 04 with 12K miles in Jan of 05. Love it. This car has wonderful handling and has drawn many positive comments regarding its good looks :) Easy to reach all instruments and functions.