2008 Chrysler Crossfire: Road Test
2008 Chrysler Crossfire ▼
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- MSRP: $34,735 - $39,130
- Invoice: $32,162 - $36,117
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Our road test for the 2008 Chrysler Crossfire includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Chrysler Crossfire from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Chrysler Crossfire, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Chrysler Crossfire help you decide if a 2008 Chrysler Crossfire is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 8.1 |
In our testing, an automatic-transmission coupe did 6.6 seconds 0-60 mph. That's brisk, but quick passing response requires a pronounced stab at the throttle to coax a downshift from the otherwise smooth-working transmission. Manual-transmission versions feel more responsive. The convertible weighs little more than the coupe and has similar acceleration.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.2 |
In Consumer Guide testing, an automatic-transmission coupe averaged 20.9 mpg, including gas-eating performance tests. Test manual-transmission convertible averaged 19.2 mpg. Crossfire requires premium-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 6 | 4.4 |
Coupes are very firm, with some of our testers thinking they are harsh on all but smooth surfaces. Available all-season tires have a discernible comfort edge over the standard "summer" treads. Convertibles are far more absorbent than comparable coupes and are among the most-comfortable two-seat sports cars.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8.7 |
Assured and composed. Minimal cornering lean, strong grip, and fine balance highlight this sporty car's handling. Well-weighted steering provides good feedback and crisp turn-in, though the tires tend to tram along pavement grooves. Braking is strong and stable.
QUIETNESS
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3 | 4.2 |
Marked tire thrum intrudes except on glassy asphalt. Fairly high wind noise above 65 mph; more so in the convertible. The engine makes a classy, muted growl at full throttle.
CONTROLS
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 5.6 |
The dashboard uses some Mercedes switches and stalks, but Crossfire has its own retro-style gauges. Some of our testers say they look too busy for best legibility. Switchgear has tiny markings and many look-alike shapes. Digital readouts are nearly invisible through polarized sunglasses. The manual-transmission gear knob is slippery polished metal and offers poor grip in quick shifting.
DETAILS
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 6.9 |
The leather upholstery is handsome, but that's about it. Crossfire's interior has hard surfaces most everywhere else. Silvery painted plastic instead of real metal trim really cheapens the cabin's appearance, an inexcusable move given this car's price.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.8 |
Supportive seats hug without binding, but rearward travel isn't generous. Headroom is just adequate for six-footers. Some testers want more lumbar support. Low-slung seating demands effort to enter and exit and combines with a high beltline, low roof, and short windows to inhibit outward vision, especially astern. The spoiler also blocks the rear view. Hatchbacks have no rear wiper available.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 1 | 2.6 |
The coupe has good cargo space for a 2-seater of this size. But the hatch opening is narrow, and the oddly shaped cargo bay has tall liftover for potential back-straining loading and unloading. The convertible's trunk is smaller: 6.5 cu ft with top up, only 3.6 with it down. Both body styles have limited in-cabin storage and just one cupholder.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 5 | 5.3 |
Crossfire is not as well built as the higher-priced BMW Z4 or Mercedes-Benz SLK, and it doesn't offer the value of the less expensive Mazda MX-5. It is best considered a high-style sporty cruiser. Our favorite is the convertible. It delivers open-air fun with a comfortable ride.
Total Score
| Limited coupe, manual | Limited coupe, automatic | Limited convertible, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 43 | 45 | 46 | 56.5 |
Total Score: 45
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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