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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Smooth Ride with top down - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
By Steve - January 6 - 10:32 pmHad the car for one year and I droved 4000 miles since new. It is a keeper, smooth ride with the top down. It is the best convertible two seater Ive ever driven. Had BMW before and again, this is a keeper. Enjoy your ride for those that own a Crossfire.
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Love my Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Bob - January 1 - 2:28 pmI recently purchased my 2004 Crossfire as a used car with 25000 miles. As many reviews state, it is not a high performance sports car. It is, however, a fun sporty ride for an aging car enthuiast like me. I have had many sports cars throughout my life and this is by far my favorite. It is great looking and plenty quick enough for me.
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Great Car For The Money! - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
By Lee Clarke - December 19 - 8:34 pmIve always thought the Crossfire is a great looking car with very good performance and handling. However, the complete lack of lumbar support, somewhat cramped interior ( Im 6, 200 lbs ), lack of cup holders, other than 1 pop up, which doesnt work, kept me from buying. However, now that Chrysler is selling them at $12,000+ off msrp/sticker, the deal was too good to pass up. These cars are very high quality at a bargain price. :)
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They dont know how good it is! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By dejohnny - December 18 - 10:27 amHands down, this is the best car Ive owned. AMG tuning and Chrysler styling, what a combination! The car is just awsome.
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Love It - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By xfiretampa - December 18 - 8:59 amIt was my dream car and luckily I was patient & was able to purchase exactly what I wanted! Very fun car to drive. People cant keep their eyes off of it. Hopefully will upgrade to the SRT in a couple of years!
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Chrysler Canada Why Spoil It.... - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By X FIRE N - December 17 - 1:46 pmI have been in ownership of my Crossfire for several months now and still enjoy driving it as much now as when new. This car feels and rides very solid. By far the most pleasing to own car I have ever had... except dealings I have had with Chrysler Canada. Since the day I purchased my car I have been without a owners manual and after several phone calls to their customer care center I still to date dont have one. I have even asked to pay for courier charges for rush shipments. This is the second time I have had to deal with their care center with poor responses. This is my first Chrysler and last for this very reason. When will the north american car makers learn. Still Love The Car.
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Serious Bargain! - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
By Chris - December 12 - 7:34 pm07 Limited Coupe, 6 speed. For $23K brand new OTD (12/5/07)....I choose it over the MS3s Id tested. Lifetime warranty on the Mercedes powertrain, This was the bargain of a lifetime! Handles fantastic, after 300 miles appears to get >21 MPG driven hard. Great midrange & higher lateral Gs than MS3. Had $36K sticker.....nothing even close to it for $23K.
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Awesome Convertible!!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Linda DiLoreto - December 12 - 3:00 amThis car is almost too much fun to be legal! I have taken it on long trips and use it in town and I have no complaints on its handling or comfort. It has incredible pick up and speed and everyone stops and asks what kind of car it is! I am a proud owner of a Crossfire by Chrysler.
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SRT 6 - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By WP4KTF - November 24 - 11:47 pmI just got, so am unable to be thorough...but, I am enchanted with this vehicle. Its looks are fantastic, its handling is magnificient and its power...ahhhh, my goodness, it reminds me of my old ragtop 5.0 GT Mustang. However, with 48 year old ankles, I never wanted a stick version of a vehicle, so this "AutoStick only" is just fine with me. The sound system is superb and the 18-19 tires command attention. Needless to say the sleek and paint job have turned some heads already and the whale tail makes me feel like a proud Jonah! The mileage is better than my old Ranger. Blind spots? I dont intend to be driving this vehicle in reverse, so I know I will be just fine. More on it, later
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Its underated by many - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By bla178 - November 24 - 10:58 pmMy dad owns this car, and Ive become a big fan of it. A lot of people down the Crossfire because of its 215 hp as opposed to the 350zs 300hp. It also loses in its 0-60 time about around .5 seconds or less. I blame this on the very poor first gear of the car, its week and short. But other than that all of the other gears feel torquey and strong...and with the good suspension and huge tires think twice before you down this car. People also fail to realize it has more torque than it does hourses, unlike most other 6cl cars. It takes some bumps hard but the seats are comfortable and the sound system and toys are also really good. I also very much like the exterior design.
