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:

• 

  No Problems..Just concern - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By WRizo58 - June 3 - 10:00 am

  Overall the car runs fine. However, when I hit 5000 miles the ignition stopped turning over as quick.

• 

  So far so good (knock on wood) - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Ned - May 31 - 10:40 pm

  Ive had Sebring for almost two years now. Pros: Chrysler design, great fuel economy (8.4L/100km - mixed highway/city drive), only minor issues. Very quiet ride (!!!) just the way I like it. More than enough power for whatever you need it for. Cons: Front right and rear left window had to be fixed. One sensor had to be replaced. Brakes could be a bit better. Not happy with seat design - not very comfy on long rides. Im 62 and I had to push seat all the way back. Head is still too close to the ceiling, yet that is okay. More than enough room for a passenger behind me to sit comfortably. Im quite happy with it for now. Would buy another Chrysler again.

• 

  2.7 sludged engine - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By cindy - May 31 - 12:53 pm

  I loved this car when I bought it. Then I had problems with the brakes [squealing] the dealership said, "it was how I drove the car" I have also had to replace tires in the 3rd of ownership. 8/17/04 car engine seized Chrysler and the dealership put the onus on the consumer-poor maintenance - despite records of oil changes and brake issues. I no longer feel safe in this car. type 2.7 at google to see problems related to this engine.

• 

  much improved over the 2000 - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By alley - May 28 - 6:51 pm

  Best deal in the convertible class. plenty of room in the front and large enough trunk for 2 sets of clubs and luggage. Limited has all the bells and whistles you could possibly want in a convertible. Auto stick is a lot of fun as well. Would recomend the limited to anyone looking for a fun ride.

• 

  Low Quality But Affordable Fun - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By ARX - May 27 - 2:04 pm

  Needs to be built better. Many little annoying part failures. Occational engine noise that no Chrysler Mechanic can find, but all can hear. Poor service as well. The drive train seems sloppy. Had trouble with stereo, which was replaced under warrantee (thank God). Braking is not as good as I would like. I would not buy another one, which is sad, as many people stop me and say how nice it "looks", then I tell them of all the little things that pop up now and then. Get with it US Auto Makers. Stop buying up all the imports and invest your cash in domestic quality up grades.

• 

  my car - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By eileen vulpis - May 27 - 12:29 pm

  I have been very happy with my car since the first day I bought it. I am very comfortable in it it drives very well and all I can say is I recommend it all the time.

• 

  Its almost all good - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Tracy RW - May 26 - 3:53 pm

  The only complaint that I have is that I feel like Im lying down in the drivers seat. Id like to be able to sit up a little straighter. Otherwise I feel like Im driving a strong machine that can easily handle the curves and bumps in the road. The acceleration of the V6 is smooth and the autostick puts me in control.

• 

  Nice, but Ive had better. - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By KJ - May 20 - 3:05 pm

  I bought my LXi when it was 7 years old with 74,500 miles on it. The previous owner had obviously taken excellent care of the vehicle because it was in pristine condition. Ive put about 51,300 miles on it over the past year and a half and it still runs great. I havent had any major problems...yet. My transmission isnt slipping, but Im leaking fluid like a sieve. Other than that, Ive only had to replace the water pump, timing belt, service the brakes, and get scheduled oil changes and tune-ups.

• 

  1997 Chrysler Sebring Review - 1997 Chrysler Sebring
  By Fred - May 17 - 8:49 pm

  This vehicle is fun to drive and hugs the road at all speeds. It rides real smooth on open highway best. Shifting at high RPMs is smooth and powerful. Convertible model smart looking and by far the best design is the 1997. I will have no problem selling this vehicle when the time is right.

• 

  Happy Touring - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By statgo - May 16 - 8:47 pm

  Pleased with the mileage, pickup, braking, quiet drive and exterior look. Price and value are very good. Have not needed to return to dealer for any fixups.