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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  Eye Catcher - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ldhio - April 10 - 10:00 am

  With only 12,000 of the 20,000 made each year in Germany imported to the US, you really get the looks on the road! Love the handling, quiet interior and quality feel of this car. Great suspension for a sports car.

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  2005 Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By judy - April 9 - 5:13 am

  I love everything about this car. The handling is quick and responsive. The interior is convient to the driver, and the look of the car is breathtaking.

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  If you want an EGO BOOSTER buy one - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Bill Golding - April 5 - 3:43 am

  Owning one is like being a celebrity. Ive owned my Black Crossfire for four months and Im still not used to all the attention I get when Im driving it. Ive had people stop me in parking lots and ask about it. Ive had a man pull up next to me at a stop light and ask " How much fun is it to drive that?" My answer "Its like driving a rocket ship" My wife has a new Black Mustang GT Convertible and I get four times the comments she does. My Golf clubs fit just fine...once you learn how to get them in. I even got two sets of clubs in. The GPS Navigation System is like having an Automatic Pilot, works like a charm.

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  Crossfire Excitement - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Don-Fresno, CA - March 28 - 4:28 pm

  Purchased a 2004 Limited Coupe, with a six speed manual transmission,that had 14000 miles on it. Although my wife and I have other cars we like the idea of having a sport car to drive to the California coast. I really love this car. It is built by Mercedes in Germany and has all of their quality. The ride is comfortable and exciting. Everybody that talks to us about the car always has a positive comment. My neighbor loves the sound as I arrive and/or depart my house. The only problem I have is that the first gear has a habit of slipping out of gear with a loud noise. It doesnt happen all the time just about 20% of the time. Crossfire internet forums mention this problem too.

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  what a experience - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By D. vandermolen - March 18 - 9:50 am

  when i was younger my dad own a use car lot in 60 -80 i had a chance to drive many fast cars but none ever had the total package going for it with handling, performance and fantastic good looks.you will get get everbody looking at this car from young and old, to men and women.

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  Too Much Plastic - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By CWT - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This could be a really great car except there is just too much plastic in it. The door handles should be metal; the side vent accents should be metal (the plastic really cheapens the looks which in turn reflects on a lack of confidence in the product); this car also needs to have a "moon roof" option. Do all this and then you will have a really great car and sales volume would go up directly!

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  2005 Yellow Limited Roadster - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Wade - March 12 - 5:23 am

  All I can say is WOW!! This is a fantastic car to drive and own. Great performance and handling. Love the convertible top, rear spoiler, heated leather seats. Sure beats the Corvette that I owned. I bought this car used with only 2500 miles on it for only $29K. Best money I ever spent. If you have been looking to buy one, you will not be disappointed!! Chrysler did a fine job with this one!

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  Goodbye PT Cruiser - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Otter Doyle - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I had never owned a Chyrsler until 2000. I had no problems with my PT Cruiser, well built. Reading about the Crossfire and seeing it at the Auto Show sold me on the car. Once behoind the whell I was not disapointed. It runs quick and agile. Takes me back to my youth.

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  We Love Our Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mary & Bob - February 28 - 8:25 pm

  We have over 35,000 miles on our 04 Crossfire Limited Coupe and we love it. We have had only one problem so far, which was a minor electrical problem with the dome light. With care we can get 29+ mpg and even pushing it will do 27. It attracts a lot of attention by men and women of all ages. Its very fun to drive and rides better than expected for a small, short wheelbase car with very low profile tires. Its been our prefered mode of transportation on several vacations in excess of 2000 miles. We recommend the Crossfire to anyone wanting a small, high quality, yet affordable exceptionally stylish sports tourer.

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  Teresas review - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Teresa Meyer - February 25 - 1:36 pm

  Really a fun car to drive. Love everything about it except the cup holder and the fact that I cant put my golf clubs in the trunk. Took a long top-down road trip on a curvy road and it was the greatest fun. I tested the BMW Z4 before deciding on the Crossfire which is quieter and has a more gentle ride. Not comfortable driving in the snow, but that was expected, use my SUV for that purpose.