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:
Showing 371 through 380 of 546.00-
The bestcar i have ever owned - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Modesto88 - September 15 - 2:00 amThis car is great. I was worried because it was my first two seater. But the seats are comfortable and it grabs the road like nothing I have ever driven. The speaker system kicks, and the looks kill. When I pass people I feel like I am in a Porche or something because everyone slows down to look. The Turlock Delership made me an offer unlike any other. Also the service you get from Chrysler because of owning a crossifire rivals Mercedes. Finally the free matching luggage reminds me of another sports legend...Ferrari...
-
Fun car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By zap - September 9 - 2:00 amGreat style, a policeman asked if the car was as fun to drive as it looks. He said it is the best looking car he has seen in the past 2o years. It is just a fun car to drive both in town and on the road. It is a Mercedes for the price of a chrysler.
-
Expensive fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By t gambill - September 2 - 9:20 amGets lots of attention on the road but for a price! Fuel/oil costs are significant for such a small car. Warranty work is a bit of a hassle since most small-town dealerships dont see enough of them to be able to easily solve problems. Negotiate tough...this is not a car that everyone wants.
-
Classy - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Casey - September 1 - 12:16 pmLove it!! Owned 3 Zs but this one tops them all. Classy, Sharp and a Lot of Fun to drive. Feel very safe even though it is small. The luggage is nice too.
-
A $100,000 car for $30,000 - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Barry Miller - August 23 - 10:00 amFabulous handling, built like a rock, stops on a dime, really does 150 mph, seats are terrific if you are under 6 ft.
-
A Ferrari for $30,000! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Barry Miller - August 17 - 3:10 amA dream comes true. Does the slalom better that all the $100,000 supercars, even with a small 6. Great grip: 19 inch on back, 18 on front. It DOES 155 mph! So its 0 to 60 is only good: do I really want to suck gas and screech away at night? Seats are well bolstered and great lateral support.The auto shift works with a single movement, rather than the two required by others. No rattles, and the HANDLING!!!!! This is why I love my crossfire
-
Crossfire Enthusiast - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By alabamamujer - August 17 - 2:00 amA full page ad in Sports Illustrated in the fall of 2003 caught my eye and I was on the prowl for this car. Its great to drive, feels and looks like a more expensive car. On the highway, this car handles well, has wide stance on the road, corners well. Great audio system, good trunk space, love the seats. Fuel economy is average 17 to 18 mpg. I have the manual transmission and look forward to getting in this car to go to the grocery store or anywhere. I do find that the cupholder is almost useless. People feel free to come up to me to ask questions about the car (cost, mpg engine size, is it fun to drive) I give this car 2 thumbs
-
luv it - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By the big dog - August 9 - 10:00 ami have owned overe 50 cars in my life and this is the most fun i have ever had just going for a ride. people stop me all the time to check it out.
-
MY RIDE - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By JIMMM - August 9 - 10:00 amTHE ONLY NEGATIVE ABOUT MY CROSSFIRE IS THE QUALITY OF THE PAINT JOB. I WOULD EXPECT A BETTER QUALITY.
-
One Sexy Smooth Classy Sports Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By Nathaniel Hughes - July 30 - 2:00 amI was originally in the market to buy a Nissan 350Z because I hadnt seen the new 2004 Crossfire. I visted Cowles Nissan Chrysler an started looking at the 350s in the Nissan showroom. I sat down to talk with the sales person and looked out the window and saw the car of my dreams in the other lot. I told the Nissan sales person I would be right back. Do you think I returned? I dont think so, I test drove the X- fire and that was all she wrote. I really love my car. Its sexy, classy, very stylish and definately turns a lot of heads. At first I was skeptical to purchase it because it had the chrysler name, but when they said German engineering,I signed
