Overview & Reviews

When the Chrysler Crossfire concept was first introduced at the 2001 North American International Auto Show, there was genuine interest and excitement from both the motoring press and the public. Here was the first tantalizing fruit of the DaimlerChrysler merger that would combine German engineering and American style. A production model was announced, and the first Crossfires started to appear a few years later.

Available as a two-seat coupe or roadster, the Chrysler Crossfire was largely based on the first-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK. Its exterior design always turned heads, but the aged platform and unimpressive driving dynamics were major drawbacks. The Crossfire's steering response in particular was lackluster due to the use of the previous SLK's old-school recirculating-ball steering. Additionally, the vehicle's ride quality often seemed harsh, particularly on the high-performance SRT-6 version.

The Crossfire's slow sales could also be attributed to an interior that didn't look as rich as the car's exterior styling would suggest. There was also the cramped Crossfire's utter lack of utility. It's still an attractive vehicle to behold, but the Crossfire was simply outclassed by other vehicles in terms of luxury, brand cachet and performance.

Most Recent Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire was available only in coupe form when it debuted in 2004, with a convertible model arriving the next year. The standard engine throughout the model cycle was a Mercedes-sourced 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. The transmission choice was between a standard six-speed manual and an optional five-speed automatic. The short-lived 2005-'06 Crossfire SRT-6 model boasted a sport-tuned suspension and a fire-breathing, supercharged 330-hp engine that came only with a five-speed automatic.

Leather upholstery was standard in 2004, when only one well-equipped trim level was offered, but starting in 2005 the Crossfire was offered in base and Limited trims, and the base car came with cloth upholstery and a limited roster of standard equipment. The Limited livened things up with power leather seats, an Infinity stereo and more sound insulation. In addition to its engine and suspension upgrades, the SRT-6 models added 18-inch wheels up front and 19-inchers out back and Napa Pearl leather seats with Alcantara suede inserts with enhanced bolstering. Unique to the base Roadster was an optional Special Edition package (2006 and '07 model years) that included Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat exterior paint, Dark Slate Gray cloth seats, SRT-6–style cast-aluminum wheels, a black windshield surround and satin silver door handles and side louvers. Otherwise, nothing much changed until 2008, when the base trim was dropped.

In reviews, our editors praised the Chrysler Crossfire's daringly distinctive looks, and the SRT-6 was loved for its blistering straight-line performance. However, the outdated steering system was unpleasant and the ride was stiff — unacceptably so in the SRT-6. Acceleration from the base 215-hp V6 was adequate but uninspiring. Overall, the Crossfire was an interesting styling exercise, but its driving character left much to be desired.

User Reviews:

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  Middle age no crisis - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By 1hot6 - November 26 - 6:34 pm

  I traded in an 06 Mustang, show car, for my 04 Crossfire in March 08. While I honestly do miss some of the Mustangs personality I absolutly love my Crossfire! This vehicle surpasses any other car Ive owned to include a BMW z3. Its not the fastest but then again who really is?! The car handles flawlessly and Ive found myself pushing upwards to 80mph on back country twisties. It gets looks everywhere I go and best of all there arent a lot of them around unlike the "me-too" Mustangs. Only problem was my own doing as I put an aftermarket exhaust which causes occasional vibration/resonnance but the car sounds like it should for the looks. Its destined to be a classic! No more built after 2008

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  Fun to Drive - 2008 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Len - November 26 - 9:39 am

  I bought this vehicle new some 10 months ago. I use this car exclusively for pleasure driving and consequently have less than 3,000 miles on it. The car handles well and is fun to drive on back roads. It lacks raw power and is not a head-jerker off the line. The auto transmission is slow to shift. I dont regret buying this car but would buy a Vette if I had it to do over again. But the price difference between the Crossfire and Vette is steep - I believe the Crossfire is a better value for the buck.

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  I love my Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Midwest Chica - November 23 - 10:06 am

  I was searching for a cute, reliable, economical sports car. Ruled out Infiniti and the Nissan 350 for this wonderful Crossfire. I purchased my 2004 in 2007 at a really good price were it only had 25K miles on it. The body had no nicks or scratches and looked brand new. It has been a fun car to drive and I always get positive comments on this looker. However, maintenance can be pricey being that everything under the hood is Mercedes.

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  Good For What it is - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Xfire Lover - November 23 - 12:23 am

  For the price and what you get, this is hands down the best-bargain 2 seater luxury coupe on the market. For $26,000 or less you get a mercedes in mercedes clothing. You will either love or hate this car. I love it. You might too. Definitely take it for a test drive. Warning: More likely than not, youll end up buying the car after the test- drive.

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  love the car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Jon M. Martin - November 22 - 10:00 am

  love the car, have issues with the service department with the company i bought it from. there was a puncture in the drivers seat when i bought it.they said they would fix it but have not heard from them. it runs a little ruff at stop lights while in idle. and still have not heard from the leasing dept. for any of my payments. which is coming up fast. i need to know where to send my payment!!!

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  Crossfire review - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By MARYHELEN HAGGE - October 28 - 2:00 am

  Incredibly fun to drive. Noticed immediately by colleagues. It only has two seats which means you cant pick up people. That limits your opportunity to show off this stunning vehicle. Accelerates well. Handles curves adroitly. Comfortable on long trips. Easy cruise control.

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  Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Rajunz - October 22 - 11:20 am

  Ive owned over 50 cars in my life and this car has to be the most dependable car Ive ever owned. Its perfect, I dont see why their values wont hold up, they are fabulous cars and theyre a blast to drive.

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  Beautiful Styling & a Great Ride - 2006 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ShirazRoadster - October 18 - 12:07 pm

  Bought the car last summer on a whim, $14k off the sticker price helps, right? The car is great once you get it out of first gear (they should have combined 1st and 2nd, you have to shift too quickly), has styling that gets a "Nice car!" at least once a day, and has gas mileage that is much better than I was expecting of around 22-24 mpg.

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  Gwams Weview - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Gwammy - October 17 - 10:00 am

  I liked this car. It has some kick.

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  some machine - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By NYlawyer - October 17 - 10:00 am

  This car is beautiful. Guaranteed to make heads turn. Glad I bought this one and not the Z or the Rx8 or the TT. Like driving a mercedes. lots of power on demand. Stiff ride, like a porsche (been in that one a lot , this feels stiffer, honestly. The car sticks like nothing I ever drove. All in all, a perfect machine.