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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  CROSSFUNER - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By R Frye - April 5 - 2:06 pm

  Wife and I bolth fell in love with design Bought it just for fun car and it is all of that,and more. Added bonus is we live not far from wine country , in any direction. We found with top down trunk holds overnite stuff plus two cases of wine. With top up five cases So we are looking foward to driving all summer.

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  My Baby - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ilovemyz8 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I have had no problems, but performance is definately lacking.

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  Better than the SLK - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By entp105 - March 21 - 10:00 am

  Having owned both cars, I feel that I can accurately state that the Crossfire is an amazing deal. It has sexy lines, and is a very rare car. This car turns heads everywhere. The are two flaws. It could use a little extra horsepower, and Chrysler RUINED an excellent Mercedes designed CUP HOLDER, by raising the Air conditioning vent. This was absolutely ridiculous. The cup holder in the SLK was perfect, hidden and could hold to big cups. Chrysler engineers elected to get rid of it. HUGE MISTAKE. It is a huge detail when you have had both cars, and had the better cup holder in the SLK. However, I would still get this car again.

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  What a Great Car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By TexasToy - March 21 - 10:00 am

  I LOVE THIS CAR

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  hot number - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By T. Gordon - February 23 - 11:43 pm

  This car is truly a good performance car...good acceleration, excellent handling and a favorite of the CHP I am certain...

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  Love My Xfi! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Brian - February 15 - 8:10 pm

  I had previously looked at them upon release but decided the price was a little too much. I JUMPED at the chance when the emp price was released on them. This car is almost perfect. There arent many in my area, so naturally everyone stares and asks me about it constantly. I cannot goto a gas station without someone talking to me about it. I demod an s2000, rx8 and a 350z before buying and decided on the smoother ride over that slight more power the 350 had. I can say this is a luxury sports car without hesitation. The service is a little pricey on the car, dont let a salesman fool you. I nearly died when I got a $125 oil change bill. (9qt synth and MB filter)

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  The rocket sled! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By LincolnMan09 - February 3 - 5:13 am

  Cornering is "on rails". Power to spare and a pleasure to drive! The German engineering is awesome with the suspension features and great styling.

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  Mid-Life Crisis - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By dvader - January 17 - 10:00 am

  Very good handling. Cool looks.

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  I love my Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Nicole - December 29 - 12:53 am

  The style of the car is great! People walking by give me the thumbs up. Daily people comment me on my car. You just feel good when youre driving. It is a so much fun to drive. I think that the style is going to age well.

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  Great Automobile - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Brian Ward - December 27 - 3:23 am

  Fantastic automobile... Handling and acceleration are beautiful. I would recommend this car to anyone. I can not wait for the SRT6. I will be purchasing the car in 2006. Thanks a bunch Chrysler and Mercedes.