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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Awesome! - 2006 Chrysler Crossfire
By Shagfire - August 18 - 10:22 pmIve only had the car a couple of weeks, but it is a blast to drive! It gets a lot of looks from passersby. This car comes highly recommended by all agents in the car industry that we have spoken to. I look forward to many years of driving this sweet little beauty.
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Dream Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By DREAM SRT-6 - August 3 - 10:24 amI love the get and go of the car. Sometimes I have to stop myself from taking off too fast. The handling is great but the ride is kind of rough with the stiff suspension. The interior could use a lot of upgrades for the price you pay for the SRT-6.
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Crossfire on target! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By crosshair - July 30 - 12:11 amThe car is all premium, feels and drives like a luxury car. If you want a fun car to drive and only drive you wont be wrong with this one. Very unique gets a lot of attention too. If you are looking to buy one, dont buy it, dont wanna a see too many on the road.
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Fun Car to Drive - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By donna - July 25 - 5:03 pmMy husband and I purchased a new 2005 Crossfire roadster in Oct 2005. I love the car but its had a vibration that the dealer has been unable to resolve. At 20,000 miles we again took it in and were told that the front two tires (continental brand) had to be replaced due to one cupping on the inside of each tire. The service manager told my husband that it looked like someone driving had been "drifting" and driving it hard. Well, my husband is 70 years old and Im 50 so we dont exactly race the car unless someone is sneaking out at night. We also live on a street which is highly patrolled by the police depart. Speed limit is 35 mph.
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Balays Opinion - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Balay - July 16 - 10:00 amI thought it was very comfortable, compatable. It has its own unique feeling to it. When your driving you feel one on one with the car. Its the type of car you feel very safe in like you have nothing to worry about going wrong, especially with the stablity control,four-wheel ABS,emergency braking system and front-side mounted airbags.
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Crossfired - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By halciemac - July 16 - 10:00 amI have owned this vehicle for one week and I have to say it is the best vehicle chrysler has produce recent memory. It is very solid and quiet at speed, the styling get looks everywhere. I have had people in BMWs, Corvettes and Mercedes all give me the thumbs up. The vehicle seems to transend age, young and old alike find the vehicle extremely appealing.
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German engineering in disguise - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By ProudCrossfireOwner - July 15 - 6:30 amI bought the car because it offers good value for the performance and reliability that comes from the Mercedez Benz pedigree. I love the car because, beyond the technology and engineering, it is fun to drive and hassle-free! And at 6 ft tall and 175 lbs, Ive never encountered any issues with the interior being small!
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great automobile!!!! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By dan kerrigan - July 10 - 10:00 amFun to drive, great fit and finish, great acceleration, excellent automobile
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rave - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By cfire - June 27 - 2:00 amA show stopper that is a joy to drive.
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Satified Customer - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By awp869713 - June 22 - 10:00 ameye catching good proforming auto.
