Chevrolet
Impala
Owner report available
Chrysler
Sebring
Owner report available
Chevrolet Impala vs Chrysler Sebring
The short answer
Based on available data, the Chevrolet Impala comes out ahead of the Chrysler Sebring on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
Impala
Overall
Owner sentiment is highly fragmented across generations, with no single dominant consensus. For classic models (1959, 1963, 1994-1996 SS), sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, centered on iconic styling, collectibility, and performance (e.g., 409 V8, LT1 V8). For the mainstream front-wheel-drive generations (circa 2000-2016), sentiment is mixed to negative, dominated by discussions of mechanical failures, poor reliability, and high repair costs.
Best version to buy
1994-1996 Impala SS: This generation is consistently highlighted as a desirable, powerful, and iconic collectible. The 2014+ generation is also singled out as the best modern version for its refined driving dynamics and quality.
Known issues
- Transmission failure: Complete failure or severe slipping, particularly in high-mileage examples (e.g., over 200,000 miles). Frequency: recurrent.
- Engine mechanical problems: Head gasket failures on 3.5L and 3.9L V6 engines; oil leaks; timing component failures; oil pressure issues related to switches and filter housing gaskets. Frequency: recurrent.
- Electrical and starting issues: Intermittent no-start conditions with clicking noises; battery and alternator failures; systems resetting (time/date) during starting problems. Frequency: recurrent.
Sebring
Overall
Overwhelmingly negative sentiment across the community. The Sebring is consistently described as one of the worst, most unreliable vehicles ever produced, with frequent mentions of it being a "pile of shit," a "dumpster fire," and the "reigning POS" in the Chrysler lineup. This reputation is attributed to widespread mechanical failures, poor build quality, and a general lack of durability.
Best version to buy
The 1995-2000 coupe variant is identified as the best version. It is noted as being a completely different vehicle: a rebadged Mitsubishi Eclipse with a Mitsubishi-built drivetrain (2.4L I4 or 3.0L V6), which is considered significantly more reliable than the later Chrysler-engineered models.
Known issues
- Severe engine problems (2.7L V6): notorious for oil sludge, internal failure, and being a "disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- General unreliability: described as having constant mechanical issues, leaving owners stranded, and being a "reliability disaster." Frequency: very frequent.
- Transmission failures: automatic transmissions noted for common problems and complete failure. Frequency: recurrent.
The verdict
The Chevrolet Impala is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Chrysler Sebring, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Chrysler Sebring is worth a closer look instead.
Explore further
Common problems by model year
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Chevrolet Impala or the Chrysler Sebring?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Chevrolet Impala and the Chrysler Sebring. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Chevrolet Impala or the Chrysler Sebring?
The Chevrolet Impala seats more passengers than the Chrysler Sebring on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Chevrolet Impala is classed as a Sedan, the Chrysler Sebring as a Cabriolet.
Which has better fuel economy, the Chevrolet Impala or the Chrysler Sebring?
The EPA rates the 2020 Chevrolet Impala at 22 mpg combined and the 2010 Chrysler Sebring at 20–24 mpg, depending on the version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Chevrolet Impala or the Chrysler Sebring?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Chrysler Sebring than the Chevrolet Impala. See the known issues comparison above.