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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  So far so good - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By darthvader - December 25 - 3:40 am

  This car is answer to your mid life crisis dream or your first (and be last) roadster. This is a keeper, I have had several sports cars over the years and this is my so far favorite. For a drop top the ride is smooth and stable. For a roadster the comfot level is tops. Storage is tight as with all 2 seaters. Love this car, the reaction on looks is mind blowing from all age groups.

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  Crossfire as a Daily Driver - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Cobera - December 13 - 1:21 pm

  My 2004 Crossfire is used as a Daily Driver and in that role it is very excellent and durable. Overall on the highway, my 6 Speed manual averages 27 MPG. I now have 16,000 miles on the car and to date not one thing has gone wrong. The build quality is very good. I am running four snow tires in the winter months and it runs well in the snow. I would highly reccomend the Crossfire. Other cars I have owned are the Lexus SC400 and Chrysler 300M.

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  Fun car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Punzy - December 5 - 9:50 pm

  This is a fun little car. Two seater with a fairly larger truck space. Lots of room inside compared to other cars in its class. Has two different size tires though making rotation impossible. Small rear window makes viewing hard. This car will fly if it needs to.

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  watch your backing - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Geno - December 5 - 9:48 pm

  Ive only had one minor problem with the car and that is the blind spots when backing, theyre horrendous! As far as styling, interior, and fun factor the car is great exceeding my expectations!

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  loving it - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By joe - December 2 - 7:43 pm

  This car is great. I have had it now for a few months and love everytime i get into it. Cant wait to leave work and put the top down. The cup holder is kinda of useless if u ask me but who cares about that really.

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  Classy Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Brian - November 26 - 3:55 pm

  Stunning car to look at. Also beautiful inside with two-tone leather. Great performance and road holding, and good fuel economy considering engine size. Rear visibility not a big problem as the rear of the car is right at the window (no trunk jutting out). Remarkable amount of luggage space for such a compact car. I live in the SF Bay Area and Ive only seen a handful of these cars about in a year, so add rarity to its attributes. Great car.

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  2004 Crossfire Automatic - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Pirateheart - November 14 - 10:00 am

  The Automatic complements this car more than the 6 speed. The car handles well with traveling over the road on a long trip. The comfort is there.The passing power is unbelieveable. This is a must drive sports car. The viewing out the back of the car could be better but this car is so fun to drive.This car captures the eyes of other very fast as it did ours. I would recomend this car.

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  EXCELLENT Vehicle ! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Dave___in___CT - November 2 - 2:08 pm

  Excellent/fun ride and handling... Silky smooth engine and automatic transmission... With 13,500 miles on it... not one problem... Seating is so comfortable for me... I never have to adjust the seat... even on 4-hour trips... Easily the best vehicle I have owned... almost the best I have driven (BMW)... I do not miss the Mazda Miata this replaced... and now my Harley takes #2 spot in my choice for fun driving... The car gets too much attention for my likes... 90% good attention... and 10% negative/hostile... I would buy it again ! Dave...

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  I love my car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Tinker9769 - November 1 - 2:00 am

  Car handles like a dream, rides smooth for such a small vehicle. Is a magnet for folks who just want to look or sit in it.

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  MY SRT-6 - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By William - October 24 - 8:53 pm

  This is an awesome automobile. Great looks and quicker than lightning. I give the interior design a 9 due to having only a single cup holder. A manual transmission and a little more chrome would be nice. On the whole, an impressive piece of work. I have not been disappointed.