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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  Greatest Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mona - September 14 - 2:46 pm

  This is the greatest car I have ever owned. I have never been a Chrysler person but the Crossfire changed all of that. It has great punch and is just all around fun to drive. I would own another. The Service Department at El Dorado is the greatest.

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  After one year of Ownership - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Randy - September 10 - 11:05 pm

  Truly a fun car to drive. Acceleration from a dead stop is amazing with the 5 Auto and the stability system to prevent loss of traction, no spinning--it just leaps forward! Hugs the road. Suspension is just firm enough. Smooth exterior lines makes hand washing easy and fast. Gets a lot of admiring looks on the road and in parking lots.

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  Would Buy Again in a Heartbeat - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By BILL - September 6 - 4:13 pm

  Love this car. Got a great price on it with incentives available december 2005. Its just plain fun to own and drive. If i was in the market for the car again, i would buy it in a heartbeat.

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  This car is great - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Printerm - September 5 - 10:03 am

  I bought this car with 90 miles on it in 2006. I now have 14,000 miles on it. It has been a blast driving. The looks I get make you feel real proud to drive this car. Most people dont realize it mostly German built. Gas mileage has been averaging 30+ since I bought it.

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  What a car....... - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By susan - September 3 - 7:57 pm

  this car handles like a dream and is so much fun to drive.. classy and fun a great combination...

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  a driversdream - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By gunny - September 3 - 12:40 pm

  this is an affordable mercedes benz amg 320slk conv that would cost over 90,000, to own thank you chrysler daimler mercedes benz for making this exciting auto to drive its like a dream come true for me at least because i could never afford to own a mercedesbenz clk320 conv amg supercharged.with all the saftey features that come with it i feel very safe and comfortable in this roadster and it will last me a life time for i would never sell this auto little rocket ship i call it.its in the same family of cars costing 100,000 up in looks and performance.thank you chrysler for making this dream car.

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  The best kept secret - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Joni B - September 1 - 1:00 pm

  This car is a blast to drive and to look at. It turns heads every time I drive it. People dont know what it is?? I hardly ever see one on the road. The performance is very good, love the auto stick. Inside is very roomy and I do not feel right up against the other person. Loved the luggage that showed up at our door about a week later, not that I think it will all fit in the trunk. Love the auto top. Takes bumps very well. Love the big wide tires. Sharp looking car!!!

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  I love this car! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Caroline - August 31 - 6:52 pm

  I have had this car nearly 6 months and have never had a more pleasurable driving experience. I live in Atlanta, GA where the weather is perfect for convertible driving. I have the top down going to and coming from work, no matter what the temperature. If its cold... oh those heated seats! If its hot, and it has been this summer, who cares, I havent. The styling, the handling, the looks from other drivers... this car turns heads. The comments and compliments have never stopped. Driving it has been beyond fun, its been life-enhancing. Why dont more people drive convertibles? Im 65 years old and Ive never felt younger. Did I mention the racy growl this car has? Its beautiful.

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  Was Good While It Lasted - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By BCM - August 29 - 6:50 am

  Very nice car for the money. Ok, the negatives.. the top did not disengage easily. Once I found just the right way to turn the handle, it worked like a charm. Cruise control lever gets in the way of turn signals. Also when using cruise control it does not keep the same speed when going up hills. Needs premium fuel so make sure you have plenty of cash. Although a summer car, it was not bad in snow with the traction control and antilock breaks especially in the mountains of VA. Very nice pick up for the base V6. I am sure the SRT-6 would be radically faster. I also like the speed shift automatic. It gives more pickup faster when engaged... just make sure you remember to change gears!

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  A Real Fun Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Bob Komoroski - August 24 - 6:43 pm

  This is one of the best sports cars that I have ever owned. The only disapointment is the poor cheap cupholder in the center arm rest. The pick up on the car is very nice and the exterior design superior. Glad I made the purchase when I did.