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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  Simply Magnificant! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Rambler358 - December 23 - 10:00 am

  Im 61" and manage to fit in this car nicely. I had headroom problems with the 350Z and RX-8, which were the other cars I was considering. I thought Id have even more of a headroom problem with this car, but not so. This car turns heads where ever it goes, and performance is great for a V6. Only 215hp but the 229 torque really gets it moving quickly. Couldnt find a red model, but the graphite metallic I got is stunning. I havent seen this car on the road yet, only at dealerships. I paid MSRP but thats to be expected for a 04 model right now with the car is still in limited quantity.

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  mopars comeback - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By paul nutting - June 12 - 10:00 am

  extreme fun ,good handlin power is good for both city and highway we went on top of mt. washington and was first car I drove down without brakes overheating ,car is very light but gives confortable ride.

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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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  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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  Sportscar handling ? - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By adam leicht - February 16 - 2:00 am

  Love the car even though it has a couple of weak spots. Draws a lot of attention everywhere, especially when the rear spoiler comes up. Suspension / wheel combination makes the car a bit hard on bad roads but does a remarkable job in the handling department -- at least up to 110 mi/hr. Over 110 the car gets a little light and somewhat hard to keep pointed. Traction on wet roads is remarkable considering the weight / power ratio.