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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  Mover and Shaker - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By HG - May 3 - 3:30 am

  I have the SRT6 version but couldnt find another way to post. Due to the power to weigh ratio, this is one of the fastest cars on the road without paying 85k. Supercharger awakenings the 3.2 from Mercedes. Destroys anything under 85k and some over that price. Interior a little cramped and gas mileage is not great but who cares, this car is an animal. Great second car. A cruising speeds very docile but with just a hint of gas and your going over 100mph. Great car

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  Eye Catcher - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ldhio - April 10 - 10:00 am

  With only 12,000 of the 20,000 made each year in Germany imported to the US, you really get the looks on the road! Love the handling, quiet interior and quality feel of this car. Great suspension for a sports car.

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  Too Much Plastic - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By CWT - March 15 - 2:00 am

  This could be a really great car except there is just too much plastic in it. The door handles should be metal; the side vent accents should be metal (the plastic really cheapens the looks which in turn reflects on a lack of confidence in the product); this car also needs to have a "moon roof" option. Do all this and then you will have a really great car and sales volume would go up directly!

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  Crossfire Lemon - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By RON - September 16 - 12:47 am

  Nothing but problems, water leaks, electrical and mechanical problems. In shop for days at a time. Chrysler does not correct the problems unless the problem falls out at the techs feet, wants more proof that there actually is a problem. I owned this auto for seventeen months now, and Chrysler has not corrected the problems. Have taken it to three dealerships and find shoddy service and untrained techs. The five star service that Chrysler offers should be reduced to maybe two stars. Never again.

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  All I can say is....FUN! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Willie D - August 8 - 2:00 am

  This is the first sports car I have had in over 30 years. I dare say it is the most fun. I love the styling. It handles just as promised. While its not long on a roomie truck, that certainly is not why I bought it. The MB-Chrysler blend it not lost on this car. It is beautifully styled and very fun to drive, not to mention it turns heads!!!

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  Tomb riding - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By budoinst - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I was initially attracted by the looks, but should have been attentive overall. The car runs OK, but for the money it would seem there are better buys out there. I think it is mainly a novelty to be honest. It is almost tomblike inside as the door panels end high up and are a very uncomfortable presence. There is little or no headroom when all the way back.

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  strong - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Fire lover - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I have had my Crossfire for about 3 month now and still love it. I would like a few more horses under the hood but it drives and handles great. Its also a big attention getter. Everyone wants to know what it is and always says how nice a car it is and I still havent seen another one on the road.

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  lotsa fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By svdv1972 - October 18 - 5:50 am

  Just came back from 2200 mi road trip and just loved the performance. Seating was very comfortable with wind blowing thru hair.

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  Beautiful, Unique, FUN! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Farben - September 28 - 7:56 am

  Ever since it first came out I loved the styling. I feel its one of the most beautiful new cars (less than $60k)out there. The styling is a dash of retro without being a clone of some previous design. Its not configured as a strict performance car, but that makes the ride very smooth. Though the horsepower isnt that impressive compared to simlarly priced cars, when you want it to go it does! Its all the power I need living in crowded MD.

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  Expensive fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By t gambill - September 2 - 9:20 am

  Gets lots of attention on the road but for a price! Fuel/oil costs are significant for such a small car. Warranty work is a bit of a hassle since most small-town dealerships dont see enough of them to be able to easily solve problems. Negotiate tough...this is not a car that everyone wants.