Chrysler Crossfire Review

2008 Chrysler Crossfire Limited Hatchback

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 is largely based on the first-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK. Its exterior design still turns heads, but the aged platform and unimpressive driving dynamics are major drawbacks. The Crossfire's steering response in particular is lackluster due to the use of the previous SLK's old-school recirculating-ball steering. Additionally, the vehicle's ride quality can often seem harsh, particularly on the SRT6 version.

Slow sales could also be attributed to an interior that didn't look as rich as the car's exterior styling would suggest. Finally, there's the Crossfire's lack of utility. While it'll always be a distinctly attractive vehicle to look at, the Chrysler Crossfire is simply outclassed by other vehicles in terms of luxury, brand cachet and/or performance. It's expected that 2008 will be the car's last year on sale.

Current Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire is available in coupe and convertible body styles, and in only one trim level known as the Limited. They are powered by a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine that produces 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices are a standard six-speed manual or an optional five-speed automatic. We've found this engine to be lacking in low-end torque.

All Crossfire coupes and convertibles come equipped with power windows and door locks (and a power top for the convertible), dual-zone climate control, heated leather seats, an upgraded Infinity stereo and an optional navigation system.

Past Chrysler Crossfire models

The Chrysler Crossfire was introduced in the summer of 2003 as a 2004 model, as a coupe only. The 2005 model year was a busy time for the Crossfire, as a convertible model was introduced in the summer of 2004 and the high-performance SRT6 versions were introduced in the fall of that year. The latter featured a supercharged version of the 3.2-liter V6. This engine delivered 330 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The sole SRT6 transmission choice was a beefed-up five-speed automatic, while the car also received enhanced suspension components that improved handling but hurt the ride.

In response to pricing complaints, a base model was added for 2005, with the Limited model getting most of the higher-priced features. 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, SRT6-style cast-aluminum wheels, a black windshield surround and satin silver door handles and side louvers. In addition to its engine and suspension upgrades, the SRT6 models added 18-inch wheels up front and 19-inchers out back and napa Pearl leather seats with Alcantara suede inserts with enhanced bolstering.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.