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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  Awesome crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By TJH - January 6 - 2:03 pm

  Picked up our new CrossFire last week and its everything we wanted in a sportscar. Its a playtoy for our retirement. Got 9yrs. to go but just couldnt wait. Awesome style and performance with a GREAT sound system. It turns head everywhere we go.LOVE IT.... :)

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  Awesome - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By xfire - January 6 - 10:00 am

  I just bought one last week and ive put 1000 miles on it from los angeles to san francisco. everything was perfect every other person on the freeway looks and looks. the handling and acceleration are really good. ive tried porche boxter/audi tt/lexus g35 coupe/nissan 350z and this car is by far the best.

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  this is a first!!! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By maryclare - December 19 - 10:00 am

  this is such a fun car to drive. i love all the stares from admireres, especially when the spoiler goes up! i wasnt sure i would like the automatic, but its great! i have fun every time i get in.

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  Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ron12 - December 14 - 10:16 am

  Nothing but problems, from water leaks to electrical malfunctions. Also braking and acceleration problems. Seeing to the rear very diffcult. Needs a wiper blade for rear window.

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  Wow - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ron - December 13 - 9:30 pm

  Ive owned numerous vehicles and I have to say the Crossfire is my favorite. Everytime Ive driven it ,heads turn. If imitation is the most sincere form of flattery ,just look at the new cars being offered and youll notice a striking resemblence to the Crossfire. This was definitely a great purchase !!!!!

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  Great Car - But WAY Single Focus - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By HillBoy - November 19 - 12:23 am

  If youre married, over 40, have arthritis, have kids, or ever buy anything at a mall - you should probably just forget this car. I am actually quite shocked how sharp and unforgiving a blade this car is for a CHRYSLER product!!! Expansion joints in my neighbourhood cause the CD to skip. Getting into the car is best left to 18 year olds whose joints are still made out of rubber bands. All that being said, this car actually generates more envy and loathing and stares than my 1987 Lemonengelb (lemon yellow) Porsche 944S did. I love it beyond measure!!!

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  11000 Miles in 6 Months! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By J Santiago - October 28 - 10:23 pm

  Wow! I drove 11,000 Miles in 6 months! Had a ball driving every mile of it. Drove it to Chicago & Nobody had my car (they all had imports that cost double!) But it turned heads, even when my car was dirty with all the brake dust. Thought about getting the 6spd, but didnt think that was too practical-got the autostick, gives u control when u want it. The auto drop- top is awesome.Interior is super sharp (vanilla & black leather)& the free luggage was a great bonus! Dont miss the lack of trunk space, (thats why I have a dodge dakota too)the sound system is great w/subwoofers.My only complaint is that darn cupholder.You need a spill proof mug if u are drinking coffee.I love it!Funnest car ever

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  head turner - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By dq - October 26 - 10:00 am

  I cannot drive this vehicle without having people stare, stop, and ask me what it is. The ergonomics are fantastic, and I disagree with some of the interior reviews that I have read. The leather seats are right out of a Mercedes, and the dashboard is tight and without rattles (trust me I previously owned a Mustang Cobra). I miss the lower end torque of the Mustang, however at 130 + mph I would rather be in the Crossfire.

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  The Best of the bunch - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By REM - September 30 - 10:53 pm

  I have the car and have had in the past BMW, Corvette, TransAm, Audi to name a few, this has been my favorite. The ride is smooth, choppy, no way, drive the Corvette for that. From my experience driving this car it is put together well and is fun to drive, the pick up is good I have had people eat my dust many times, lol. The navigational system works so I dont know what the hell the idiot that said it didnt do or maybe he should learn to read or follow directions, it gets you any where you want to go, Ill prove it to anyone, I have travel just using the system. If you enjoy driving than this is the car to have and my God every where I go heads turn and they all ask what kind if car it is.

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  My Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By riley34 - September 16 - 5:30 am

  After approx 4k miles I can say that I am very happy that I purchased this car. The features are great, the ride is styling and the value is unbeatable. A couple of minor items are 1 or 2 more DC connections, radio could be more straightforward to use and a Sirius option would be nice, a spare or ride flat tires and finally some better after market stuff from MOPAR.