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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  After 80000 miles - 1998 Chrysler Sebring
  By Robert W. Porter - November 7 - 4:46 pm

  After 80000 miles and 7 years later, the body is still in excellent shape and the paint still shines. But the tie-rod ends go bad and then break, yes I said break, so you cannot steer when they break and could cause an accident. So have them replaced as soon as you buy one of these cars, or have the owner do it before you buy. The cross over tube in your cooling system deteriorates and needs to be replaced, kind of pricey. The rear defogger hasnt worked since I bought the car. The tranny is geared high so you dont get the full effect of the 168hp V6. And the computer puts the engine at idle once you hit 105mph. Doesnt go any faster unless you can get the rev limiter shut off.

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  fun reasonably priced - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By tominator - November 7 - 10:00 am

  its a great car.........some pep, some style lots of wind in the hair

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  WP Signature series - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By Gooderthanamug - November 6 - 9:26 am

  I was impressed right off the bat with the handling and the comfort behind the wheel. The Signature series leather seats and sunroof make this one inexpensive yet elegant sedan

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  New Car with Defects - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Joeywoodstock - November 5 - 2:00 am

  The car is fun to drive. Although it has it problems. Ive had it in for oil leaks twice already. The passenger window doesnt work right and the engine in unusually noisy. Im not sure the dealer is doing their job. The resale value is terrible.

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  Looks good on the outside, but... - 1996 Chrysler Sebring
  By varnk - November 4 - 3:03 pm

  I love the look. It definitely turns heads for its uniquness. However, there are design problems in the interior that disappointing. Horn is hard to find. Map lights on the mirror will drain the battery dry if you forget to shut them off. Only one cheesy cup holder. Creaky and flimsy plastic interior. Confusing heating/cooling control. Keyless remote has very poor range. I also have had to replace several very expensive computer sensors in addition to water pump and tensioner pully. Total cost over $800. Also has an expensive exhaust system. If it ever has a problem, the whole thing is one very expensive piece.

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  2003 Sebring Limited - 2003 Chrysler Sebring
  By frejj - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I love this car, it is fun to drive, responsive, and an eye catcher.

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  What a fun car! - 2005 Chrysler Sebring
  By rittdon - October 28 - 2:00 am

  I purchased an 04 Sebring LX mainly because of the rediculous rebates being offered. I ended up falling in love with the car. It has the 5-speed manual transmission, and is decked out in leather, has all the goodies. Power is fantastic and the mileage is surprisingly good, espescially since I have been putting my foot in!

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  ITS A TICKING TIME BOMB.... KEEP AWAY FROM IT!!!! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Peyton Moyer - October 25 - 1:25 am

  Do not buy this car unless you have a GREAT mechanic or a GREAT extended warranty! Engine and computer has BUGS and started acting crazy at 132,300 miles valves are sticking and idle is rough. Not an easy car to work, not worth your time to overhaul and replace engine.

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  Lemon - 2002 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mitsi - October 23 - 2:00 am

  My Sebring looks good, runs badly! We moved from Georgia to Colorado and the pick-up onto the highway, or even into traffic from a stop is terrible!! I even had it looked at, at the dealer to see if the altitude was affecting the engine or it need some adjustment, they thought I was crazy. Not only that, but it just passed 55,000 miles and has been in the shop twice in the past six months! Once for overheating when something broke, and just this week for the air conditioner compressor that had BAD screws. Apparently the screws are aluminum, (very soft metal)and they wore out(?) and they compressor fell to the bottom of the car taking the serpentine belt wit

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  Great Car! - 2004 Chrysler Sebring
  By Mrs. T - October 23 - 2:00 am

  Ive only had my Sebring Convertible for about 6 weeks but I love it! My husband was a little leary of buying it but he is really enjoying it too. I like the get up and go as well as the look of the car with the top down. It is great fun to drive. The only thing I dont care for so far is the tilt wheel mechanism. My last car (a Chevy) had a much nicer one. I would recommend the Sebring Convertible to anyone that wants a comfortable car as well as a fun convertible.