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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  Best Looking Car in America - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Philip Smith - August 18 - 4:03 pm

  I was not in the market for a car when I finally went to see a Crossfire. I loved the way it looked so much, after test driving it, I did not leave the showroom without one ordered which was delivered that same day. Without a doubt the best looking car designed, and wherever I go people ask me about it, point at it on the road. A unique design. All other cars look alike. Crosslfire is fabulous. 32 hiway mpg and 25 average

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  Bob Page - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Bob Basron - August 13 - 2:03 pm

  The 2005 model in the roadster configuration is a refined sports car delivering everything that is fun about open top cars. You can enjoy the automatic and still play with the manual mode. I own a 1965 Austin Healey 3000 and drive it only on the cooler days, the crossfire delivers hot or cold with a high degree of sophistication,that only a German engineered vehicle can do. Fuel econmomy is great,this is a fun car..

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  best looker - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By george - August 11 - 8:51 pm

  it is the most fun you can have with your clothes on. It sure is a crowd pleaser. Everywhere you go people go out of their way to see what kind of car it is.Im very, very happy with the car.

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  1 Fun Little Sleeper - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Troy Williams - August 8 - 3:23 pm

  I like this car because most people dont even know what it is. I call it the speeper. Its much faster then it looks! And it looks fast!

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  Fun Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By 1972DAWG - August 8 - 11:39 am

  Very responsive and fun car to drive. Better mpg than expected. Very good example of German engineering.

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  Great Car--Great Dealership!!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By kimanddale - August 6 - 12:25 pm

  This is the 5th car that I have purchased (or leased) from this dealership, and it is the best! When I first heard that I might actually be able to afford a Mercedes Benz with an American nameplate, I ordered my state-issued "Crossfire" personal license plate. The performance is great, the fuel economy is wonderful, and I get excellent service after the sale. Mine is a six-speed, and that adds to the fun. The next stop is Biloxi, Ms, for a weekend of gambling...

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  MYCROSSFIRE - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By SUSIE - August 4 - 5:34 pm

  I love to drive my Crossfire with the top down .I get many compliments on what a "cool" ride it is.I notice a lot people looking at it and admiring it. I recently moved to Florida from Michigan (brrrrr)so I will be getting a lot of Quality "top down" time all year long.Ilove my shiny Black Ragtop!!!!

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  Who needs a Nissan Z????? - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mike is Great - July 31 - 4:56 pm

  I must say, Chrysler has outdone themselves. I have owned 2 different Chryslers before and had so many of the lot problems before, so I took a chance this time around. And I am still grining from ear to ear about it. This baby is fast, smooth, roomy, and even gets decent MPG. So far I have averaged around 17-18 city, and a solid 28 on the highway. Man, this is one car I pray Chrysler does not drop. Theyre sitting on vehicle gold here. Look out Z owners, Civic SI, s2ooos, and mustangs. I am comming up fast with this baby!!!

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  SRT6 - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By sean - July 28 - 12:02 pm

  Wicked on the track Acceleration great at any speed. Lots of attention on the road

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  Fun to Drive - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Malesa - July 25 - 2:17 pm

  The car itself is awesome. It turns heads everywhere I go. I love the fact that I have a car with so much style. Its a great conversation starter because everyone wants to know more about it. The luggage set received in the mail was a wonderful surprise and its almost as much fun as the car. While there are a few things that could be improved on, the car is awesome to drive and I would not have picked another convertible in its place.