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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  ahead of its time - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By kahh123 - December 17 - 11:20 am

  overall very pleased. the vehicle is clearly ahead of the crowd..plus i love all the stares

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  Fresh Yet Classic Styling - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ek - December 13 - 8:56 pm

  I enjoy everything about this very uniquely styled fun to drive instant classic. So many other cars look common. This is a special automobile inside and out. Wow! A blast to drive. There is no other car in the world I would rather own.

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  who needs a girlfriend. - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Big Dave - December 9 - 8:43 am

  the first time i saw this beuaty i had to have one,and that is before i drove it.when i did drive it,i loved it even more great handleing and performance,and the looks you get while driving it.i am a tall guy 6/2 its tough to get in but once your in it is very comfortable.i think in time this car will be a classic,my previous car was a 1987 corvette convertible in my opinion the vette may have been faster but i,ll take my black coupe anyday.like the title says who needs a girlfriend im in love with my car, the design on this soon to be classic isno less than awesome.

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  Perfect Choice - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Crossfire Fan - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Newly purchased, and I love it! Great fun to drive.

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  Awesome car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By wanakee - October 26 - 9:06 pm

  I truly enjoy this car. It has great power, tons of leg room and drives wonderfully. The only disadvantage for me is the trunk as in there is none. I love my new car.

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  Fun in the sun. - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Doug S - October 24 - 10:00 am

  Very comfotable to drive even for someone who is 6ft 4in tall. Easy operation of soft top. Looks great with the top down. Interior design is clean and simple. Choose this car over the Mazda RX8.

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  crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By tmb55 - October 24 - 10:00 am

  love my car, love the color, the sytle and the romance about it... it is one hot little car...

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  One of the chosen few... - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Lonnie - October 21 - 10:16 am

  I wanted to own a Crossfire form the first time I saw one. Detroit, this is what Americans want! Event hough the car is on a Benz chassis, one look screams american. The sloped boat tail with the huge rear fenders look like a body builders sholders. The long nose and grooved hood is the cooless! The spine that follows the entire length fo the car (inside & out) is just like the early Stingray, minus the split window. I am a young hard working man, and when I am behind the wheel and middle aged men in Porsches & Benzs give me the thumbs up, I feel like a menber of the "club". Thank you, Chrysler, for this wondeful car.

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  DODGE BOY 88 - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By DODGE BOY 88 - September 16 - 2:00 am

  THIS CARE IS GREAT I LOVE IT

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  Super Fun to Drive - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By scole - September 16 - 2:00 am

  So far I cannot find a reason to keep this one in the garage. I will drive to the mailbox to get behind the wheel. I have never had so many head turns and "nice car" gestures (thumbs up) with any other car. Honestly, though, i hate to call it a Chrysler, can I get a Mercedes badge for it? This car is totally awesome for the price.