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:

• 

  My Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By BJanes - June 17 - 2:00 am

  The Crossfire takes us back to our youth when we were on the prowl for aDodge Charger. It has a very stable ride at any speed and more gas pedal than you can use. You can accelerate quickly from any speed. We have enjoyed driving it around town and on the road.

• 

  Awesome coupe - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By pjl7 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  car is a bit cramped for 62" height. But played with seat and found a good compromise. Trunk holds 2 sets golf clubs, surprisingly. Sound system is v.good. Merc engine is v.smooth. Traction control is kind of annoying too intrusive. Car is surprisingly quieton freeway at cuising speeds. Would definitely recommend to others.

• 

  Best little fun car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Dianna - June 9 - 2:00 am

  My only problem with the purchase of the crossfire is the check engine light repeatedly comes on. The dealership has yet to find what the problem is and has not as yet corrected this. Gets a lot of heads turning. Fast and Very FUN to drive.

• 

  I Love this Car! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By TUCHA - June 4 - 2:00 am

  Although I have had my Crossfire only a about a month, I love it.. I had another sports car several years ago, and I truly think this car is 100% superior, ride and comfort are more like a larger car.. Fuel economy is great, although it really wasnt a consideration when I made the selection. This is my first Chrysler product, but I doubt it will be my last.

• 

  satisfied customer - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By slh811 - June 1 - 2:00 am

  This car is a blast to drive. The design has everyone turning to see what it is. Many people have stopped me to ask about it.

• 

  Great Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By lvly324 - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for almost a month. It is a very nice car which gets a lot of attention.

• 

  Second Childhood Fun, Fun, Fun!!!!!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Peggy - May 21 - 7:33 pm

  After reading about this "Spec" model at an auto show in early 2000 or so, I thought....if this ever comes to fruition, I must investigate!! Well, to make a long story short...It did. I investigated. I fell in love. The romance is still going strong!!! I am an older "cool" woman (as my Grandchildren call me) who has always had a love for cars that was instilled in me by my "sonless father"! I was very fortunate and at this point in my life having the time of my life with the Crossfire as a sidekick!! The biggest thrill is the manual handling...making me truly feel a "part" of the whole process. (The quick glances that come my way arent so bad either!!!! I feel l9 again!!!!!!

• 

  WOW What A Car!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Saint777 - May 17 - 2:00 am

  I love sport cars and I have had a Porsche, 300Z, & a Supra. I was thinking about buying the BMW Z4, but then after driving the Crossfire I totally forgot about the Z4. I had to have the car after I drove it, and this car is a buy not a lease. What I love and suprized was the handling and the attention I get. A week after buying it I took it for a test and I was doing 85mph without brakes on a 25-35mph road i was suprized felt like i was driving my porsche, i love it.

• 

  I love this machine - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Soulive21 - May 16 - 2:00 am

  I love this car. I traded in my Grand Cherokee for it and didnt look back. I wish I couldve found a convertable but this will definitely do. You cant go wrong when the guts of the car are Mercedes.

• 

  Move Over! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By I Love My Crossfire1 - May 2 - 2:00 am

  Ive had my Crossfire for two weeks and its the most fun car Ive ever had... Easy to drive, easy to maneuver through traffic. I havent had it in 6th yet. Ill have to hit the Interstate later today. Youll have to learn to navigate via mirrors since the back window is small. If youre shy, youll make all kinds of new friends. People stop me everywhere to ask me about it.