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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My dream car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Lee - August 17 - 9:16 pmI love this baby! I even had a policeman stop me and tell me what a great looking hot car this was! This car rides like a dream. Very comfortable seats and lots of bells and whistles to play with. Only drawback is no trunk space....maybe just enough to put in a small overnight duffle bag. This is one great hot car!!!!
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Wonderful Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By tsaoti - August 4 - 2:00 amElegant, sporty car. No reservations whatsoever. Dont buy the car if you run in snow though. Can definitely feel the german blood in this car. A head turner too.
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Great car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Jeana1norse - July 31 - 10:00 amThis is a great car all around. It is really more like a Mercedes than a Chrysler and it feels like a luxury car on the inside. The performance is better than I expected as well.
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This is the one - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Ron - July 15 - 10:20 pmNever have I had so much fun driving a car! Everytime I drive it someone comments, whether its a "thumbs-up" or something else. One of my best purchases!!!!
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Love the Attention and comments - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Mike In Jacksonville - July 6 - 12:53 amAnother headturning Design from Chrysler. Sure there are plenty of other sport coupe with more HP. But this is plenty (215), I have no problem what so ever passing, merging, and just pure flying. For a two door sports coupe the hatch actually has alot of space for luggage (which incidently come with the vehicle), its not a suv and doesnt try to be. Please... its me and my sun glasses just trying to find some open road with out all those moving walls (suvs).
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wifes toy - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By greatbald1 - July 5 - 10:00 ami have my harleys so my wife wanted a toy. the crossfire is pure joy, fun to drive, responsive and enormous sex appeal. i find the car quiet, finish is superb, performance more than adequate. and for the best, is not a cookie cutter vehicle, public response is amazing, car looks sexey from any angle, have never driven a car that gets this much attention. sticks to the road like glue, is comfortable. do have to watch your speed because the car is noticed by police, i was pulled over because the cop wanted to take a closer look and had no idea that this was a chrysler.
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The best car decision I ever made. - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Mike M - July 2 - 9:56 pmThis is my first sports car, and I am really glad I purchased this model. I have never had so many people stop me and talk about the car. Great performance on both winding roads and straight out on the highway. I now look forward to the long trips across Northern Nevada. Catch me if you can.
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Crossfire is no misfire. - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Dan - June 17 - 10:13 amIf you own an exotic such as a high end Porsche, criticizing Chrysler for shortcomings in the Crossfire series design is like taking candy from a baby. However, for a fun to drive and great looking car, it is hard to find fault in Chryslers Crossfire. The x- fire has been fun to drive and own: I am already thinking about adding a roadster to the roster. Good going, Daimler-Chrysler!
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DYNAMITE CROSSFIRE - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By JON GARON - June 12 - 10:00 amtHIS CAR IS AS GOD AS ANY MERCEDES I HAVE EVER OWNED AND A TON BETTER THAN A LEXUS
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mopars comeback - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By paul nutting - June 12 - 10:00 amextreme fun ,good handlin power is good for both city and highway we went on top of mt. washington and was first car I drove down without brakes overheating ,car is very light but gives confortable ride.
