2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

This sporty premium two-seater blended American styling with underskin hardware and engineering from Chrysler's parent company, Mercedes-Benz. Assembled in Germany in conjunction with the Karmann organization, the Crossfire was initially a hatchback coupe that borrowed its rear-wheel-drive chassis and powertrain from Mercedes' 1998-2004 two-seat SLK--which was a convertible with a retractable hardtop. Evolved from a concept car seen at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in 2001, the Crossfire went on sale in summer 2003. Sculpted body lines blended with a long hood and a fastback profile. A Mercedes-Benz 3.2-liter V6, rated at 215 horsepower, teamed with a six-speed manual transmission or an available five-speed automatic with AutoStick manual shift gate. Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control were standard. An Electronic Stability Program integrated brake and throttle intervention to control wheelspin when needed. A speed-sensitive rear spoiler powered up and down depending on road speed (rising at about 60 mph), or could be left deployed. Heated power seats were standard for both occupants, and the driver faced a telescoping steering column with a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The 240-watt, six-speaker Infinity Modulus audio system included a CD player. Dual-zone air conditioning and remote keyless entry were standard. Customized Crossfire touring luggage was available. Seven-spoke alloy wheels were 18-inch up front, 19s in back. "Summer" tires were standard, all-season tires optional. A plug-in air compressor and a can of tire sealant were provided instead of a spare tire. All Crossfires had leather upholstery and door-mounted torso side airbags; curtain side airbags were unavailable. Primary rivals included the BMW Z4, Chevrolet Corvette, and Nissan 350Z.