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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  sporty but tame - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Nick King - April 25 - 8:50 am

  This is a well built fun car with great looks. It is not a neck popper on take off. It is worth the price if you want a good looking fun car.

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  Micks Second Childhood - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By K. J. France - March 12 - 8:33 am

  This car is sharp! People, men and women both, approach us wherever we go to ask questions about it. They always remark how beautiful it is, and nearly always ask us to trade them vehicles. We dont!! My husband told me that driving the Crossfire made him feel like he was back in his 20s again.

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  Car Of My Teenage Dreams - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By George E. Murphy - February 20 - 11:30 am

  I can recall reading Road & Track as a teenager when I was supposed to be doing homework; all I wanted in life was one of those beautiful touring cars. I have gone through my share of economy, functional, mini-van types and finally I have my car of my 14 year old dreams. Chiropracters should thank all of us for the way for the way it twists necks. I had a Porsche driver pull next to me on the highway and give me/it a thumbs up! I love everything about it, acceleration, comfort, handling and particularly styling. I had to wait until I was 65, but it was worth the wait!

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  Try and find one... - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Crossfire in LA - February 17 - 10:00 am

  This is such an amazing car. Fit and finsih are very tight and engine is solid as a rock. Cannot go anywhere without attention--which says alot in LA.

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  I love my new car. - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Lindabelle - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I love my new car. It is awesome to drive. Its design catch everyone eye. Its just beautiful.

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  you looken at me? - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By echozulu48 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I was looking at 350s and Accords when my wife told me to look for the new Chryeler. I wasnt sure what she was talking about until I got a look at one in the showroom. That was all it took. Two days later we were proud owners of a very cool vehicle, and the price was great just for the looks and questions we get no matter where we drive. Everybody wants to know what a Crossfire is.

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  No Wires Crossed - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Art in CT - January 29 - 4:06 am

  The Crossfire is a wonderful blend of sports car and sports coupe. The performance is very good with ride and handling being in the firm and controlable area. The styling is well... you either like it or you do not. I am constantly getting inquiries and thumbs up from folks on the road and in parking situations. The 6 speed manual is fun to drive and the gearbox is very nice. I have about 11000 mile on the car now and have not had a single issue or problem. So I would rate the build quality as excellent. I have added a clear shield aftermarket bra to the front of the car to stop rock dings. Downside of the car is when you are backing out of a parking place. Vision is limited.

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  Dream Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Joseph A. Millikan - January 24 - 10:00 am

  I simply cant tell you how much I enjoy my Crossfire. Its a peppy car with classic looks and really makes driving a pleasure. Its fun to turn heads when I drive past them. Especially nice is the automatic spoiler which raises around 65 mph and lowers at about 35 mph. I have the silver blue model and its a charm.

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  Wow - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Obie - January 20 - 10:00 am

  Car is fun to drive, handles well. It is a real kick after driving large vehicles for a long period of time.

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  2005 Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Alan - January 8 - 3:26 am

  I feel that the Crossfire is one of the Best built cars on the road today. It is solid, well built, everything matches up, nothing miss aligned. It handles the road like no other. The only thing they could have done to make it better, is to make a little more room for us tall people. I am 63" and it is a little close.