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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  Lemon - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Sue Martinez - August 16 - 4:47 pm

  Purchased new 07/06. Two months ago transmission seals had to be replaced, but it was under warranty which expired 07/06/09. 08/06/09 @ 26,000 miles key did not work, AAA could not start the car and it was towed in - "brain" dead and a lobotomy required. As warranty had run out I was quoted total of $4700 for computer replacement. It took a week to get the parts, and now Chryslers computer system is down so it cant be programmed. Also being charged $190 for second key. Good news is that now it is partially covered by warranty but my cost is still over $1500. Not happy.

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  Low, fast and sharp - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By DEB - August 13 - 8:26 pm

  I have a srt-6 roadster in graphite and never get tired of the look of this car. The lines are amazing and its fast. The interior is comfortable and user friendly. It never fails to turn heads including mb owners on a regular basis. When the top is down ive had people shout great car and give a thumbs up, people crossing streets have stopped and commented thats a beautiful car. I looked at the mb slk and amg but went for the crossfire, the engine is mb assembled in the same german plant and i preferred the body lines to an emblem.

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  A feel good roadster! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By autobuyinghelp - August 12 - 10:00 am

  Before purchasing my Chrysler Crossfire Roadster Limited, I owned a 1995 Corvette Roadster for the past five years. Id grown very attached to the power and handling of Corvette. After test driving both the Honda S2000 and Audi TT Roadster, I was convinced that I would not be satisfied with anything less then a Corvette, but that was only until I drove the Crossfire. Its styling and "high tech" look first attracted me, but it only took a short drive to convince me that there was a lot more then just its good looks. It certainly is one of the most comfortable, fun to drive vehicles that Ive ever owned. The V6 Mercedes motor is powerful and smooth.

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  we L:OVE this car! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By LLoyd Merryman - August 11 - 12:56 pm

  We have had this car for only three months but absolutely LOVE it!. It handles like a dream and its very easy to operate the power roof. Recommend it to anyone!

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  AWESOME! Everyone compliments! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By LINDSAY - July 31 - 5:51 pm

  This car is so much fun to drive. The spoiler, which is similar to the Porsche, just makes the car! Im a 20 year old student... this car is perfect for me. You tend to see older people driving them... for what reason I have no idea. This car is definitely for younger women!! Its stylish, sexy, reliable (except the darn cup holder), and fun! I will never sell this car! It is irreplaceable due to the fact that Mercedes will no longer take part in the make of this car!

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  nice car........... - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
  By rd - July 28 - 2:21 am

  Have had about two months but having fun. I really like the looks and the usual response I get is "nice car!" I have not driven many sports cars but this one is fun to drive! You have to be in reasonable physical shape to get in and out. Mom dont fit... I immediately got an extended warranty and Xylon(sp?) coating from a Chrysler dealership. Hopefully it will prove a dependable car for a long time as I tend to keep cars for 10years or so. The downside is the "american car rapid depreciation", premium gas and the 8.5 qts synthetic oil every 3K miles. As for now, no regrets!

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  2004 Crossfire - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By mls - July 23 - 10:00 am

  My only problem is that I need to install a front license plate and will need to drill into the front bumper to install the holder.

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  Great Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By monacom - July 16 - 2:00 am

  This car is exceptionally fun to drive. I had read the reviews that low end torque and performance were an issue. I honestly have no idea what they reviewers are talking about (obviously they have not gotten in one). I test drove the Audi TT Turbo, The 350Z, the Infinity G35 SC and the Mazda RX8. This car is just as fast and handles twice as well as any that I drove. Its interior is sleak and "clean". It is a driving enthusiasts car...no doubt about it. Definitely go with the manual transmission...

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  An Enthusiasts Vehicle - 2008 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mike - July 15 - 4:43 pm

  Ive never driven a "sports car" in my life. I felt the need and felt Id be too claustrophobic for it. Ive been driving SUVs for the past 15 yrs and felt no reason to switch. As a likely symptom of my midlife crisis (??), I found myself wanting a new car. Not just any car. I wanted a different car -- in a true sense of the word. I didnt want a Lexus or BMW. I was quite smitten with the look of the Infinite FX35. It was different and cool. I drove one. I was completed deflated. It was a boring ride. Then, I saw Crossfire. I felt stimulated and intrigued. I went and drove one. I was hooked. It was gorgeous and different on the outside. Driving made me feel something powerful

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  Fantastic Purchase - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By jag21082 - July 13 - 7:36 pm

  I was concerned when buying this car about the space issue, being 62, but I found that since I drive by myself, it hasnt been a problem. I love the way the car looks and even getting compliments in car crazy LA. The performance is more than adequate for city driving, and the car feels like a tank on the freeways. The seats in the car are superb, and the stereo begs to be turned up even louder. The manual tranny is very slick, despite reading negative reviews from various sources. I havent put too many miles on the car yet, but with a tick over 4,000, the car feels very solid, no rattles or issues. The air conditioning works extremely well, and the heated seats are a nice touch!