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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  Great Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By lvly324 - May 25 - 2:00 am

  I have had this car for almost a month. It is a very nice car which gets a lot of attention.

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  Sports Car with Class - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Elbartosr - May 1 - 2:00 am

  I bought the car for the sporty yet classy look not because it had a Mercedes powertrain. Definetly draws a crowd. The car is quick, 215 HP, but not up to newer V6 HP levels. The fun to drive factor makes up for lack of power. Ended up buying it over the ugly 350Z. Ive had no vehicle problems at all including those the earliest built cars had. You end up wading through alot of dealer B.S. to try to buy one. Id hate to see the non 5 star dealers. I dont find the "lack of rearward visibility" to be an issue while driving. Only when trying to back out of a parking space.

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  The ding - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By DINGER - February 19 - 4:23 am

  Cramped interior, slow pick up, headlights, poor fuel economy, poor seats do not recline back far

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  Dont buy one - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Rick - January 4 - 9:03 pm

  Fabulous car!!! Please dont buy one. I like being in the minority! Although the hp numbers may not excite you, the styling, handling and actual performance will.

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  looks fine ! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By thebear - December 19 - 10:00 am

  Drove one today. Detailed inspection. Impression was that this is a nice flagship. Exterior is very distinctive and paint job beautiful. More room than 350z. I was looking for a bit softer vehicle. This is a sport vehicle in ride and handling. I needed touring vehicle.

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  Crossfire Review, 2005 - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Robert Barclay - December 14 - 1:46 am

  The only drawback is that cant carry anything in the car, not even golf clubs (have to put in front seat). fantastic car to drive. I have people constantly come up and admire the car.

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  Fun and Beautiful - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By CKUNICKI - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I just got the car but had to make a trip this weekend. She was joy to drive. I have to behave myself on the speedometer side. I was doing 90 without even realizing it. It felt like i was doing 55. She handles very well and has a great turning ratio.i do agree that the interior could have been alittle better designed, but I really enjoy driving her

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  2005 Crossfire Ltd Roadster - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By bsblair - April 25 - 6:26 pm

  Sure is nice to have a car with torque, 2 A4s, turbo 4 w/ quattro, great cars, but no acceleration 0-30. Bought a roadster, cant wait for warm weather to drop the top. Room for more ammenities, but that would just drive up the cost. My wifes RX-8 has it beat for handling, but this car is more for cruising, with the top down.

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  sporty but tame - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Nick King - April 25 - 8:50 am

  This is a well built fun car with great looks. It is not a neck popper on take off. It is worth the price if you want a good looking fun car.

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  you looken at me? - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By echozulu48 - February 5 - 2:00 am

  I was looking at 350s and Accords when my wife told me to look for the new Chryeler. I wasnt sure what she was talking about until I got a look at one in the showroom. That was all it took. Two days later we were proud owners of a very cool vehicle, and the price was great just for the looks and questions we get no matter where we drive. Everybody wants to know what a Crossfire is.