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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You have to love this car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By RRNYC - April 8 - 10:00 amWhat a joy to drive. The manual transmission is smooth. The ride is quiet, steering and engine performance well harmonized. When the spoiler deploys, the rear-end sticks to the road like glue. You quickly notice that you turn every head. The value of the car is exceptional -- paid sticker.
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the mid-life crisis Ive been waitingfor - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Alia - April 8 - 10:00 amAfter fifteen years of lugging around kids in the SUV or minivan du jour, what a dream come true! This car is too much fun to drive. Too bad Celine Dion is the spokesperson. The queen of bland doesnt begin to do this car justice.
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Eye Appeal - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Antonio - March 20 - 2:56 pmMy Crossfire has sure captured the attention of all motorists I have encountered. This vehicle is extremely well built, excellent road handling and fun to drive.
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Great Looking just dont drive - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By hey19 - March 14 - 5:49 pmThey claim there is traction control...if there is a flurry on the ground it wont drive. The tires need to be filled every other day. All the novelty wore off after driving for a couple months.
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Crossfire in FL - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By 2005 Crossfire - March 5 - 1:40 amI love the Crossfire (yellow, Limited Convertible, two-tone leather interior). It truly has been the best car I have ever owned. The performance is good and fun to drive, even with an automatic transmission. The styling sets the car apart and impresses everyone who sees it. The handling is superb the way the car hugs the road, and my favorite feature is the electric convertible top – classy. I only have 4,600 miles on it, and I just hope I enjoy it as much years down the road as I do now. The only downside is the size; if you are over 6ft. 5 inches, you probably won’t fit.
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Get one...if you can! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Dave J - February 24 - 10:00 amThis car handles like a dream. It is a very limited production vehicle and one cannot get it easy. I found one and absolutely love the car.
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TOO NEW TO RATE EVERYTHING - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By AUTOCRITIC - February 24 - 10:00 amSEXY HEAD-TURNER LEGROOM AND HEADROOM INADEQUATE FOR SIX FOOTERS ROAD NOISE ON ROUGH PAVEMENT IS A SERIOUS FAULT. APPEARS TO BE LITTLE INSULATION IN THE CAR! NOISE OVER RAILROAD TRACKS IS TERRIBLE!! ACCELERATION IS OK, BUT WILL HAVE YOU LONGING FOR A V8 OR BMW INLINE POWER. HANDLING WAS GOOD, BUT I DIDNT PUSH IT VERY HARD. STRENGTHS: STYLING WEAKNESS: LEGROOM, HEADROOM, ROAD NOISE, AVERAGE ACCELERATION BOTTOM LINE: A GOOD FIRST EFFORT, BUT WAIT FOR NEEDED IMPROVEMENTS. YOUD BE STUPID TO PAY STICKER PRICE FOR THIS CAR!
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A good car that could be great. - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By norwhoski - February 24 - 10:00 amSeveral small things that could be better and one BIG one. Headlight switch is VERY stiff. I have problems with my hands and it is very hard to use this switch. The sun visor cant be swiveled to use on the side windows. The seats are BAD. Not just uncomfortable but on a trip of any duration you will have to adjust the seat several times or just stop and get out to give your back a break. The drivers seat has lots of adjustments but if you are 6 or over you will have to move the seat all the way back to get in or out, and it can take for ever to get the seat adjusted again. It needs a memory system for the seat.
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Its fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Kate - February 19 - 11:33 pmI love the car on a whole. Except for when it rains, it sounds like i have marbles puncing off the roof.
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It has a humidor. - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Fourty1 - January 27 - 6:51 pmit grabs the road like a champ, and tells you when anything... and I mean anything is less than perfect with the car in terms of maintenance. An amazing ride that turns heads everywhere.
