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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  My New Car!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Faith Wood - October 16 - 10:00 am

  I had a 2004 Crossfire...saw this 2005 new limited convertible and had to have. It is a keeper! I love the look, the drive, and the quality of all the products in it. Everyone admires as they see it parked or on the road.

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  da bo0mb - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By orie smith - October 2 - 10:00 am

  it is awsome when it hits 60mph the spoiler pops up.

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  crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By DANA - September 26 - 10:00 am

  This vechicle is a head turner for sure, and It is a blast to drive!

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  batmans new ride - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By batmanloggie - September 26 - 10:00 am

  Splendid vehicle with great curves. BMWs have challenged me on the road and lost. Hooah!!!

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  Great Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By crossfire39 - September 20 - 2:00 am

  This car is a fun car to drive and turns heads even at 7 months old. Excellent quality, if your going to buy a sports car this is the one to consider.

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  Crossfire Lemon - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By RON - September 16 - 12:47 am

  Nothing but problems, water leaks, electrical and mechanical problems. In shop for days at a time. Chrysler does not correct the problems unless the problem falls out at the techs feet, wants more proof that there actually is a problem. I owned this auto for seventeen months now, and Chrysler has not corrected the problems. Have taken it to three dealerships and find shoddy service and untrained techs. The five star service that Chrysler offers should be reduced to maybe two stars. Never again.

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  Looks good in the shop - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By tbaughman - September 2 - 12:37 pm

  I really liked the style and speed of the Crossfire, unfortunately it has been in the shop numerous times in the short time I have owned it. Parts are hard to come by and trained technicians are even harder. The REALLY irritating thing is the depreciating value... We paid $40,000.00 for this car and now it is only worth $18,000.00! The upkeep on this car is a little pricey too.

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  I love this car! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Elizabeth Klotzer - August 30 - 7:32 pm

  My fiance and I purchased a 2004 Chrysler Crossfire in July, 2005. It was essentially a new car, only 19 miles on it. This car replaced my old Chrysler Cirrus. I LOVE the Crossfire! My two dogs, a Collie and a Corgi, fit comfortably in the hatchback and enjoy looking out the window. The hatchback has more room than it appears: we fit the dogs and two large hiking backpacks in there. Incredibly zippy and turn heads everywhere, this car drives like a very expensive sportscar. You can really tell that 3/4 of the Crossfire is Mercedes components. I might regret my decision in winter, but boy this car is something to drive! No real complaints, although the rear is difficult to see out of

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  This is it! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Napasonoma - August 21 - 6:16 pm

  I have owned this car for 8 months and it has been a blast to drive. It has great torque and HP. Its all you need to have to enjoy this size car. It is not a muscle car but a sports car and can it handle, it is glued to the road. The quality is German it shows everywhere the fit of pats and the even lines, look under the hood everything is well laid out and uniform.This car turns heads at every intersction.

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  Great car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Kent - August 15 - 6:31 pm

  I bought my Crossfire this summer and have been very glad I did. The car was used but only had 2500 miles on it. It is one of the most fun cars I have every driven and handles fantastic. My gas mileage has been very good so far averaging around 21.0 which isnt bad at all. The Mercedes SLK engine is very smooth and willing to move and the six speed for the most part is smooth. The car is the sapphire blue color with the two tone leather inside which in my eyes is one of the best colors offered. It does get ALOT of attention no matter where I go. Being taller (6 2) I was concerned about room inside but that is not an issue although I am still trying to get the seat just right. Fantastic!