By KBB.com Editors
Accounting for more than one in every four passenger cars sold, the mid-size sedan market remains the most popular in the country. Currently, the segment consists of the class leaders, the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, and a host of "category alternatives," some of which are more compelling than others. Lately, though, it seems almost every new or redesigned entry shows up to the party with a combination of attributes attractive enough to merit consideration. Chrysler's entry, the Sebring Sedan, has not lived up to expectations, partly due to stiff domestic competition from both the Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Malibu, but also because of perceived weaknesses in the areas of interior quality and engine noise, both of which Chrysler addressed in 2009.
If you like the balanced nature of a mid-size sedan but want or need some of the standard in-cabin goodies traditionally optional on other makes, the Sebring might be just the car for which you've been waiting. Unique styling also sets the Sebring apart from the crowd.
The Sebring sedan's overall sense of refinement doesn't match the Honda Accord's or Toyota Camry's, or even that of some domestic rivals like the Chevrolet Malibu. Also, electronic stability control is optional, a feature most competitors now list as standard equipment.
For 2010, the grooves are removed from the Sebring's hood, while new wheels and instrument panel gauge cluster mark the other changes for 2010.
Driving Impressions Although the 2010 Sebring is a vast improvement over Chrysler's previous mid-size entries of late, the car still falls short of the standards set by Honda, Toyota and even Hyundai....
And on the list of things we do like about the Sebring, its ride and handling characteristics aren't at the top. Compared to a direct competitor like the Chevrolet Malibu, for instance, the Sebring is neither as comfortable on the highway nor as eager on a winding road. Furthermore, the cabin isn't as quiet and the powertrains aren't as smooth. On all those fronts the Sebring is far beyond acceptable, however, especially for anyone attracted more by its styling and amenities.Uconnect tunes
This optional hard drive-based system includes navigation with real-time traffic information, MP3/WMA music and JPEG image uploading, a high-speed USB 2.0 port, auxiliary audio input, voice recognition, voice message recording and playback, Bluetooth hands-free cell phone connectivity and more.
Tilt and Telescoping steering wheel
This adjustable steering wheel makes finding a comfortable driving position a breeze, no matter your size.
Interior
With a passenger cabin defined by clean, contemporary styling and a generous helping of metallic-looking trim (plus an abundance of average-grade plastics), the Sebring might not be as warm or welcoming as some of its competitors, but it's comfortable and attractive nonetheless. Complementing a host of available in-cabin technologies is a fold-flat passenger's seat that can make laptop work easier (or help accommodate longer cargo). Leather seating is complemented by a touch of tortoise shell-like trim and brushed silver accents.
Exterior
Before its introduction, many figured the new Sebring would show up looking something like a scaled-down version of the larger Chrysler 300 Sedan that has been such a big hit for the automaker. According to company officials, however, that car's bold look just didn't downsize well. Instead, the Sebring adopts the general styling direction that now defines more than half the vehicles in the Chrysler lineup, a look that includes the grille and headlamps that made their debut on the Chrysler Crossfire two-seater. Limited trim-level models include body-colored door handles, available fog lamps and dual chrome exhaust outlets.
The Sebring Touring includes a six-CD/DVD/MP3/SIRIUS Satellite Radio sound system with auxiliary input jack, air conditioning, power windows/locks/mirrors, remote keyless entry, cruise control, four-way adjustable steering wheel, delayed-off headlamps and cloth seats. V6 trims add 18-inch wheels and more optional equipment.
Options for the Sebring include a power sunroof, heated front seats, remote start, traction control and electronic stability control. V6 models offer 18-inch wheels, navigation with Boston Acoustics audio and the Electronic Convenience Group that adds automatic temperature control, auto-dimming rearview mirror, remote start, fog lamps and a tire pressure monitor.
The Sebring's base four-cylinder engine delivers highway mileage of up to 30 miles per gallon, while the range-topping 3.5-liter V6 offers 235 horsepower. The 3.5-liter benefits from a six-speed automatic transmission with Auto Stick manual-shift capability, while the 2.4-liter engine is matched to a traditional four-speed automatic.
2.4-liter in-line 4
173 horsepower @ 6000 rpm
166 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4400 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/30 (Sedan), 20/29 (Convertible)
3.5-liter V6
235 horsepower @ 6400 rpm
232 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 16/27 (FWD)
To compare current market prices, check out KBB.com's car classifieds to view the new and used Chrysler Sebring vehicles for sale near you.
Based on 265 Ratings for the 2007 - 2010 models.
Review this carBy nessa (FL) on Wednesday, May 22, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 35,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "get up and go unbelievable!!"
Cons: "no trunk space when top is down"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 8
"The looks and performance are fantastic. I have one gripe, no trunk space at all when roof is down. I like to carry beach chair and umbrella at all times for beach every day. Can't put these in trunk! Therefore I almost never put the top down. What a waste!!"
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By Helen (NJ) on Thursday, May 16, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 60,000
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "pricey, but worth it. Fun to drive."
Cons: "none so far"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I love this car. It's comfortable, dependable and gets great gas mileage. On my last coastal trip I got 35.5 miles per gallon"
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By kariohoh7 (NY) on Wednesday, May 15, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 80,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "Handles well; accelerates quickly; comfortable"
Cons: "Can't think of one"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I have had a 2008 Sebring for years now and just love it. The 6 cylinders give it that get up an go and it really zooms along on the highway, accelerating very quickly when passing. Seats are very comfortable, even in the back. Love that the back seats fold down providing lots of room for big things. We fit a 6' shelf in there recently. The car is a looker too, sometimes people think I am driving a Mercedes. :-) Overall the Chrysler Sebring exceeded expectations. Cannot believe it was so affordable - you get a lot of bang for your buck."
4 people out of 7 found this review helpful
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By LIAM (PA) on Thursday, April 25, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 39,415
overall rating 9 of 10rating detailsPros: "THE BEST CONVERTIBLE WITH A GREAT SERVICE CONTRACT"
Cons: "UNKNOWN"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I HAD THE FOUR CYLINDER MODEL PRIOR TO THE TOURING AND PERSONALLY CRASH TESTED IT AND SURVIVED. IT WAS NOT MY FAULT. I WENT UP A CURB KNOCKED OUT AN ELECTRIC SCHOOL CROSSING SIGN, THEN A FIRE HYDRANT, AND SMASHED INTO A DIRT EMBANKMENT, THE DESIGN IS IMPECCABLE!"
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By kstro (KS) on Wednesday, April 24, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 83,000
overall rating 1 of 10rating detailsPros: "sporty"
Cons: "lots of brake problems"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 1
"I have now owned this car for 7 months and out of the 7 months it has been in the shop for at least 3 in and out. THe transmission was slipping it cant hold up a set of brakes and roter (im on my 3rd) and the air bag light likes to come on im sooo sick of this car"
1 person out of 2 found this review helpful
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By ANG (NJ) on Friday, April 19, 2013
I own this car - My approximate mileage is 82,000
overall rating 10 of 10rating detailsPros: "very good on gas"
Cons: "Electrical wiring not that great"
Likely to recommend this car? (1-10): 10
"I owned this car for only 9 months, before totalling it. I wish i could find another one like it. It had all the bells and whistles. It ride smooth, the look is sexy and sporty. The only issues that I had, was some times the radio or lights inside would go out, and stay out for a few hours. Don't know why it was a limited edition. They should go back to this moble. Do not like the newer model 200, too plane inside."
1 person out of 1 found this review helpful
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