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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Crossfire - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By ron12 - December 14 - 10:16 amNothing but problems, from water leaks to electrical malfunctions. Also braking and acceleration problems. Seeing to the rear very diffcult. Needs a wiper blade for rear window.
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Great Car - But WAY Single Focus - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By HillBoy - November 19 - 12:23 amIf youre married, over 40, have arthritis, have kids, or ever buy anything at a mall - you should probably just forget this car. I am actually quite shocked how sharp and unforgiving a blade this car is for a CHRYSLER product!!! Expansion joints in my neighbourhood cause the CD to skip. Getting into the car is best left to 18 year olds whose joints are still made out of rubber bands. All that being said, this car actually generates more envy and loathing and stares than my 1987 Lemonengelb (lemon yellow) Porsche 944S did. I love it beyond measure!!!
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One Fun Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By oops - August 12 - 2:00 amThis is one fun car to drive. It accelerates like no tomorrow... Outstanding... Handles the road like sitting in an easy chair.
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My Baby - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By ilovemyz8 - March 21 - 10:00 amI have had no problems, but performance is definately lacking.
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Great Automobile - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Brian Ward - December 27 - 3:23 amFantastic automobile... Handling and acceleration are beautiful. I would recommend this car to anyone. I can not wait for the SRT6. I will be purchasing the car in 2006. Thanks a bunch Chrysler and Mercedes.
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Watch out - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By PortlandORCodyH - July 19 - 2:16 pmI love my CrossFire, but it has been in the shop four times now for the transmission. It pops out of first gear. Not all the time, about every 100-200 miles it will just pop out. Everytime I take it in, the dealership trys to tinker with something else. IT would be easier to just replace the transmission. Now im told "Star" has no more sugestions since there unable to duplicate the problem. So I paid $39k for a car that pops out of gear. All I can do now is take legal action for Chrysler to fix/replace/buy back the car. If you have a choice, buy the automatic. I know its not as much fun. I plan on buying an automatic once this gets resolved.
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Young looks and fun - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By george - July 19 - 5:40 amA very sporty young looking vehicle with excellent road handling qualities, some lack of confort due to the performance low profile tires which is normal.Try it you will love it.
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Great car - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
By Don - June 22 - 2:43 amGreat handling on the road, 27.7 miles/gal on trips. 19 mpg in the city if you are conservative in take-a-ways at the lights.
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Sweet dreams, adios - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By manigua - June 12 - 2:00 amLike a beautiful but faithless lover. I fell hard for this divinely inspired car, and it was with a broken heart that I returned it to the dealership a month after purchasing it. Like the first 6M transmission, the second trannie popped out of first into neutral frequently and without warning. While I adored driving this swift and agile 2-seater, I became afraid that I would get rea
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GREAT FOR THE MONEY - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
By phenix76822 - March 12 - 2:00 amGREAT SPORTY CAR..A POOR MANS EXOTIC
