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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  WOW - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By murabitas - November 3 - 3:26 pm

  Unbelievable - what a car. Driving a convertible in New England in not a year round sport but I cannot wait for summer. Rides like a dream - great stability, steering, pick up and stopping range. Handles 128 like a charm. Great sound package both quiet (car) and stereo. Turns heads every where I drive.

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  Crossfire Limited Convertible - 2006 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Larry - September 26 - 9:55 pm

  Purchased Spring, 2007 for daughter. This car has it all looks, ride, power and safety features. For the price, we could not find a similar convertible with all these features. The dealer incentive was the selling point. We are pleased with the gas mileage, upper 20s on the highway and lower 20s in city. The only negative point has been a small water leak near the top and drive window. Expect to get this repaired easily.

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  Crossfire Comments - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Magnum55 - September 24 - 8:03 am

  My wife bought this car much to my surprise and joy. We both love it! She drives it to work and I drive it on the weekends. The car handles and drives very well with plenty of power. Ill be talking to her on the phone and hear her punch it and know she has a smile on her face.

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  Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By p - September 23 - 12:56 am

  The Crossfire is a very fun car to drive! It is the best looking sport coup out there. It could use a little more power, but its not all about power. This car is a big ten!

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  Love my Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By MARK READER - September 20 - 12:33 pm

  This car is fun to drive its a real head turner when ever we drive it someone always comes up to look at the car or asks what it is. I even had a guy get out at a stop light and ask where we got it.

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  Love my Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Brent - September 15 - 2:30 pm

  I love the car. Acceleration is off the chart. Its an attractive, eye catching sports car that is great fun to drive. If you buy, be prepared to be stared at. People will break their neck for a look. I purchased in Houston at $15,000 off the sticker for a new car with 90 miles on the odometer and full factory warranty. My wife and I broke it in on a 600 mile roadtrip from Houston to Amarillo. The car handled beautifully and was actually much more comfortable than expected. On cruise control, the car easily handled the hills with no downshift ever. Passing capability is awesome. Negatives so far; very stiff suspension, limited rear view and the dang cupholder.

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  Sporty sophistication - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Freedom5 - September 11 - 11:47 am

  I have had this car for just a short time but have so far enjoyed every driving minute. Im 64" and fit. I have always liked the styling but would never have paid the initial price. I purchased mine with only 18,000 miles on it - not bad for three years old. It was as clean as brand new. The miles and condition along with a price tag of less than half of the new MSRP made it irresistible.

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  DC AWESOME - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By TX XFire - August 28 - 10:00 am

  This is one great looking car. Drvives like a Mercedes--because it basically is one. Great handling and engine. Watch out though, people will stop you everytime to look at the car.

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  Awesome - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Joe - August 27 - 3:17 pm

  The car has been an eye turner from day one. Chrysler did an over-the-top job in building it. I have more people coment on it. Fast, sporty great looking/sexy. Look into it, you wont regret it.

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  Excellent Sports Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Gojira - August 19 - 5:43 pm

  I bought this car used a few years after its debut. I loved it from the beginning but prices came down to the point I could grab one. Im glad I did. This is a very fun car with a passionate design and a character all its own. Ive had small mechanical issues (squeaky window, loose shift knob) but no major problems. Fast. Handles beautifully. Quiet for this type of car. Standard traction and stability control made winter driving much easier than I expected. No problems.