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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  Young looks and fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By george - July 19 - 5:40 am

  A very sporty young looking vehicle with excellent road handling qualities, some lack of confort due to the performance low profile tires which is normal.Try it you will love it.

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  Nirvana At Last - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By cistreit - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Great overall styling, performanace and features. Looks great, feels great, rides great!

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  great design - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By sdkerr - July 14 - 10:00 am

  Outstanding design and performance. Automatic very responsive and smooth. Cabin well appointed and comfortable. Some moderate road noise.

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  Great car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Don - June 22 - 2:43 am

  Great handling on the road, 27.7 miles/gal on trips. 19 mpg in the city if you are conservative in take-a-ways at the lights.

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  On Fire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By T. Smith - June 21 - 11:53 am

  My experience has been great. Well-designed for someone under 6 Feet tall. Very sleek and sexy. Definitely an eye catcher. Good speed. Lots of space in trunk.

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  Driving my Its the Only One In Town Baby - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By rocket83402 - June 12 - 2:00 am

  This car is an absolute joy to drive. Cornering, and handeling are excellent. Long trips are comfortable. Rides is smooth for a Sports Car. Real eye looker. Not alot of cargo room, but heck i didnt buy it for that. I love it.

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  A Drivers Car thats worth every penny - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Campfire - June 12 - 2:00 am

  This is a drivers car, it will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. It rides and handles like a Mercedes-Benz, thats because it is except for the body and price. If your looking for the fastest car on the road then this car is not for you, but if you are looking for a car with plenty of horse power that can do 155 MPH and arive you there in style and comfort, then take a good look at the crossfire.

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  Sweet dreams, adios - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By manigua - June 12 - 2:00 am

  Like a beautiful but faithless lover. I fell hard for this divinely inspired car, and it was with a broken heart that I returned it to the dealership a month after purchasing it. Like the first 6M transmission, the second trannie popped out of first into neutral frequently and without warning. While I adored driving this swift and agile 2-seater, I became afraid that I would get rea

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  Fast and Fun X Fire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Tom Ciccone - June 11 - 4:36 pm

  Great car! Fun to drive with top down and enjoy the ride. Car is very fast and has a nice tight feel to the road. I get stopped wherever I go and people ask to take a closer look. Always look forward to by next journey with my Crossfire.

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  <3mycrossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By <3mycrossfire - June 4 - 8:40 am

  I honestly love my crossfire, I owned a Jetta before this, so I am used to the German drive, but was wanting something different without sacrificing quality, and this is it... I also own an Escalade, and love the American handling, this is the perfect fusion of both. One of the most comfortable interiors as well...