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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  fun car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By jc neal - August 14 - 10:00 am

  I just got my new crossfire last monday. Ive had several mercedes, this one handles identically with my 92 500SL. I had a 92 stealth RT and the crossfire puts it to shame, on comfort quiet and of course the stereo. A fun, great looking car. Thanx to mercedes and chrysler for coming up with one terrific automoble.

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  All I can say is....FUN! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Willie D - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is the first sports car I have had in over 30 years. I dare say it is the most fun. I love the styling. It handles just as promised. While its not long on a roomie truck, that certainly is not why I bought it. The MB-Chrysler blend it not lost on this car. It is beautifully styled and very fun to drive, not to mention it turns heads!!!

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  Muscular & Buff - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Myron - August 2 - 2:00 am

  The buying experience first of all was comfortable and pleasent at this dealership... The cars lines contour to a WIDE Muscular and Buff look which brings you the feeling of power when you drive. But you do not need the looks to feel the power, it has pleanty of power no matter what some of the professional reviewers say. For a normal consumer who likes the feel of quick and fast this car performs well. I think if it had the 2% more power that the professional reviewers wanted , we all would be getting tickets everother time our of the pits, (garage).

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  Great Toy! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By David - July 26 - 4:20 am

  Ive been searching for a toy car for over a year that my wife and I could use to enjoy the backroads of Colorado. There are many excellent machines out there, but all contenders were dismissed as "too" harsh, cramped expensive, etc.. The srt-6 roadster was the best fit with our needs. Comfortable, sufficeint space and plenty sporty. We got a great deal by bringing prices of vehicles that have sold on eBay and those listed in cars.com. We negotiated up from these prices rather than down from list. A phenomenal backroad car that I would highly recommend.

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  beautiful machine - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By DickMurphy - July 4 - 12:55 pm

  love performance of car wish it was a little more room in cabin. Hard to put on seat belt & adjust seats with door closed,but otherwise love performance & feel of a solid heavy very agile car. Dick Murphy

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  Couldnt be Happier! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By golfergal - June 22 - 5:53 am

  Just got my Crossfire. I found one used and traded in my Sebring for it. I love this car, and yea, it has no trunk space, but thats not its purpose. The purpose is for driving and having a blast while doing that. For space, Ill drive the Jeep Cherokee! The color is the cobalt blue with the two tone interior. Its pristine and just about perfect. The cup holder is not great, but for $5.00, I can buy one at Schucks that will work just fine. I love this car. I couldnt be happier! It handles like a dream, has enough zip, and the style is out of this world.

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  Rear view restriction - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By david - June 21 - 12:36 am

  The design of the rear window and or either back side window is limited because of their narrowness. When making a left turn the driver has to reach back over his shoulder and strain for a clearance view of on coming traffic. Also in parking lots the visual is greatly restricted and one must be careful in backing up.

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  A Decent Sports Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Zach Westover - June 20 - 2:00 am

  Why didnt the people who designed this car put in dual overhead cams it would greatly improve the horse power and if possible turbocharged it to make it a truly fast ride.

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  Crossfire Hottie - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By 7alawah - June 16 - 1:36 pm

  I love my Crossfire! I had a Z3 and got rid of it and got the Crossfire. I have had many cars.I am the only one that is young who drives this car. I went to Phoenix and the ride was awesome. I have had three back surgeries, so I know that it is pretty comfortable. I am so happy I wet out and bought this car. Anyone who doesnÂ’t like this car has no taste. They have no idea about cars and should not have an opinion. It has so much power too. 0-60 in 6.5 seconds. That is so good, when knowing it has a V-6 engine. When I drive, I always have people staring at me. I have had a cop pull me over to check out my car. It is one of a kind. Knowing that Mercedes help made it, you know it is a qualit

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  Awesome - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By BethesdaMD - June 5 - 12:15 am

  This is the most awesome car Ive driven besides the Corvette. The car may not take off on the race track, but Im always at or over the speed limit while still on the entrance ramp. Automatic transmission is as smooth as silk. Im stopped everyday with questions and "nice car" comments. I love this car!