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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  Good Times - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Steve - March 19 - 1:57 pm

  I bought this car at one of my companys auctions. It has been a great car. Very fun to drive. Edmunds talks about the lack of power. But this car really has plenty of pep. The car is solid compared to the Solstice and Sky models. In addition, the car has far more features than the GM and most of the other import convertibles. You cant beat the price of a used Crossfire. Bang for the buck, it is the best two seater on the market.

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  great car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By vegas - March 9 - 5:48 pm

  have had 2 corvettes . they may be quicker but no where near the quality of this crossfire . get fantastic mileage on the hwy and around town . this was chryslers hidden secret . what do you need more speed for this is the usa no audoban here . very cofortable and very quick . didnt have to pay over 40 thou to pass everything except a gas station .really fun car will keep minr forever until it becomes a collector . then you can all eat your heart out . no need for more speed her have more than enough . chrysler should make more of these

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  Buyer Beware - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By triplefire - March 2 - 12:35 am

  Bought this car confidently after reading so many positive reviews. Purchased Certified used from Chrysler with 38400 miles. Love the styling and handling, especially the two tone interior. However, within 2 days, I noticed a VERY annoying rattling coming from the panel behind the seats/ tonneau cover. Within one week the GPS Navigation stopped functioning. Within a week and a half, I found oil leaking from the rear of the car and the lights are dimming and getting brighter while idling. I thought this was supposed to be a CERTIFIED vehicle! Dont be fooled by Chryslers so-called Certified Used program...

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  Fun to Drive Turns heads - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Steve Thompson - February 20 - 9:13 am

  Have been looking at this model, as well as the BMW Z4 and the 350Z, for several months. The Crossfire has the best value, with all the great rebates offered by Chrysler. Having lots of fun driving, no problems so far, looks great, and look forward to driving this car each day.

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  A sportcar at last - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By giglia66 - January 26 - 6:43 pm

  Purchased car in Aug 2008 in new condition. Had 16000 on it. It is graphite gray metallic outside, interior is salmon and gray leather two tone, has designer signed sunvisor from germany, with certification. Just installed two air intake pipes in lieu of regular air filters. Talk about tone and speed it made a tremendous difference. Its awesome, love it. Should have bought something like this years ago but have it now.

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  A street legal jet! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Jonathan - January 19 - 7:53 pm

  I just bought my 2004 Crossfire in August, and simply love it! Due to our snowy Canadian winters, I had to park it for about 5 months, but cannot wait to uncover her and hit the freeways again. It turns heads wherever I go, and people just stare and ask what it is constantly. I am only 58", so getting in and out are a breeze. It handles like it is on rails, and makes every trip fun! I know its not as fast as the 350Z or TT, but I feel it is a much sharper looking car, and lives up to the Mercedes name in every way. I have driven Jags and high end Acuras, and this car feels and looks more expensive. If you have the chance, buy one and hold on! This is a future collectors car for sure!

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  I love it ! - 2008 Chrysler Crossfire
  By TomD - January 19 - 2:56 pm

  Bought my 08 in mid December in NY and drove it home to South Texas as an early Christmas gift to myself! Great price (15k discount) and great car. Very solid machine and inspires confidence. Everything works as it should and I am very, very happpy with purchase. Average gas mileage on 1750 mile trip was 25.3 mpg, nearly all interstate. Make sure your bill of sale says new! I see some new ones for sale (by Chrysler dealers) as used, even with only 10 mi. on the odometer, to avoid the lifetime powertrain warranty to the original owner. Be careful!

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  One Great Sleak Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Nathanieljh29 - January 15 - 2:00 am

  I Really love this car. I love the unique design, exhuast growl and tight steering. It handles very well and gets a lot of stares on the road. Every gas station that Ive visited since I bought the car, people have asked me questions and says thats one cool looking car. The car has about 215 horse power, and I think they could have put a few more horses under the hood, but it still pulls and quite fun to drive.

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  SRT-6 Hands down the hottest Car ever! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Antonio - December 29 - 12:00 am

  I actually leased a 2004 Crossfire limited. When I gave it back I actually purchased 2 SRT-6 crossfires because I was so impressed with the 1st one. The SRT-6 crossfires are awesome vehicles. They have the sharpest styling on any car Ive ever seen. Chrysler always has great designers. The underspinnings are Daimler, and feel solid and ride with quality. You cant go wrong with these cars. Also with less than 2000 SRT-6 versions made of the coupe and ragtop, they will be worth money someday. I highly recommend this car!

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  2007 Crosfire Roadster - 2007 Chrysler Crossfire
  By James - December 19 - 7:14 pm

  Only had my 2007 Roadster a few months now but its been a blast to drive, holds the road like glue and very good power. I have the auto with paddle shifter and like it very much, much better than clunky stick and clutch. Only one small problem, I get battery rundown occasionly when I leave the interior lights on auto. Not sure whats going on there, have to get it in before the warranty exp. Other than that, no probelems and a very good value with the big discounts being offered. Purchased for $19M with 6000 miles.