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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  driving experience - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By wonton - June 12 - 10:00 am

  fun driving machine.draws attention to styling.handles great on corners.recommend highly

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  fun, fun, fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ed - May 27 - 11:23 am

  Going thru second childhood could not be more fun thanks to my crossfire. Every time I stop at the supermarket, gas station etc.. I get people coming up and talking to me about my car and that is very enjoyable for a retired guy.

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  Tremendous Value/ Quality/ Fun to Drive - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Jaxjr - May 22 - 4:10 am

  Look up Refined in the dictionary and youll see Crossfires picture. This is fully Mercedes and one of their better models. I love to drive and be seen in this beauty. It is a great cruiser with a comfortable ride at 80. The engine is smooth throughout the rpm range. Tiptronic tranny is not good: it is perfect. Tires hold the road is the tightest turns. Fun to drive and fun to find value without overspending. This car is a winner!

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  Cross country drive! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mark Chandler - May 21 - 8:00 pm

  Great car to drive! But, I get challenged by every teenager with a grand prix at every light. The cup holder and some of the other interior are a bit cheeply made. I bought it and drove from MI to CA and loved the drive. That drive through the mountains was fantastic!!If the interior had some better quality I would give it a 10 across the board! ( with a bit more under the hood) V8 in the near future?

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  Luv My Car !!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Linda - April 8 - 12:06 pm

  Traded in my beautiful 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited (a bit large) for this compact 2-seater and have absolutely NO regrets! Gas savings is a big plus, but the car handles great and looks great and is HEAVENLY with the top down. Even though I look like 007 while the top does its thing.

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  Luv my convertible - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By magoo - April 1 - 11:56 pm

  Had a Porsche Boxster S and traded it for this car--best decision I have made when car shopping! It handles like a dream and the graphite grey color is beautiful with all the metal flake! I thought the luggage was a nice touch and very unexpected on my part.

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  Daily drivers can be fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Cobra953 - March 23 - 9:40 pm

  I have been driving this car everyday for the last 11 months. Its fun, fast, and reliable. I find it can corner with the best of them, and although it is not a HP giant, it will run the interstates and two lanes with power to spare. I have had it back to the dealer twice, for oil changes. Thats it. Not a squeak or rattle.

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  2005 Crossfire Convertible - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Linda Thompson - March 17 - 2:56 am

  Age 53- first purchase of a sportscar/ convertible. Most fun ever to drive, looks from all who go by. Impressed by Mercedes participation. Going on driving trip- husband says lack of luggage space is not a bad thing.

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  Its hott, but under powered. - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Fire_Phil - February 28 - 10:00 am

  This vehicle is beautiful in every way, the lines are sexy the interior is sexy, but its not a sports car. It looks like one, but needs more power. 215hp for a 3000 lb car is not a sports car, but more like a bloated fish. If you want style go grab it, if you want performance look elsewhere or buy a nitrous tank.

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  I love it - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By debbi - February 21 - 4:06 pm

  I have owned Vettes in the past but this is more fun and less expensive. I wouldnt trade it for anything. The luggage that they send you for buying one is just another advantage. It is absolutely the best purchase I have ever made.