2004 Chrysler Crossfire Review
2004 Chrysler Crossfire Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Sleek and sexy styling, exceptional handling dynamics, quiet interior, long list of standard features.
Cons
- Needs more low-end torque, steering not as precise as its competitors, interior surfaces feel cheap, controls aren't completely intuitive.
What’s new
For 2004, Chrysler introduces an all-new sport coupe called the Crossfire. The first true product of the Mercedes-Chrysler collaborative effort, the Crossfire is designed to lure traditional luxury import buyers away from the likes of Acura, Infiniti and Audi and into a Chrysler showroom instead.
Edmunds says
DaimlerChrysler's first attempt at infusing a Chrysler product with Mercedes underpinnings and heritage results in a fun-to-drive coupe with stunning looks.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2004 Chrysler Crossfire 2dr Sports Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$226/mo for Crossfire Base
Crossfire Base
vs
$174/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
Chrysler sales have increased nearly four times since 1991. With momentum building, DaimlerChrysler has set an aggressive sales goal for its Chrysler brand. It believes it can boost sales another 40 percent by the end of 2004 by introducing several exciting new models that capture the public's attention in segments and price ranges that Chrysler has never attempted in the past. The Crossfire sport coupe is just such a car. With its dashing good looks and healthy dose of German engineering courtesy of Mercedes-Benz, the Crossfire certainly isn't your mother's aging Chrysler sedan. Instead, the Crossfire is poised to remake Chrysler's image in a bold, new way. Two years ago, Chrysler proudly unveiled the Crossfire concept car at the 2001 North American International Auto Show. After receiving favorable reaction from the automotive press and consumers, the new sport coupe was put on the fast track -- scheduled to start production for the 2004 model year. Chrysler's engineering team got busy immediately, and the production version was unveiled at the 2002 Los Angeles Auto Show. Chrysler believes the Crossfire coupe will attract new buyers -- consumers who have traditionally purchased luxury import models. Reaping the benefits of its Mercedes-Benz corporate ties, the Crossfire is the first true Mercedes-Chrysler collaborative effort, featuring 39 percent Mercedes-Benz technology. That figure alone should catch established import buyers' attention, along with the fact that the Crossfire is based on its corporate cousin-- the SLK roadster. The Crossfire name is derived from one of its many distinctive design cues: the character line that runs along the Crossfire's sides from front to rear. The "X" that is created when the line crosses to a negative formation as it moves through the car's rear fender is the "cross." Other interesting design elements that enhances the car's windswept look are the six "speed" lines that run the length of the car's hood, and the center spine line that moves over the length of not only the exterior, but through the interior as well. Interior lines were set to focus attention down the road, and the distinctive center line even cuts through the center console. After driving the Crossfire, we can say that we wish it had more low-end torque, slightly better steering feel and less plastic and better ergonomics in the cabin, but we can't deny how much fun the car is on twisty roads, or how upscale it feels when cruising along coastal highways. We also can't deny the surprised expressions from mesmerized onlookers when we told them how much the car cost. So despite all the infighting, quarterly red ink and lingering lawsuits from angry stockholders, this whole "merger of equals" thing between Chrysler and German automaker Daimler just might pan out. And even if it doesn't, the Crossfire is proof that we'll see some interesting product in the meantime. Need something pretty to look at and fun to drive? Perhaps it's time for a visit to the Chrysler dealer.
Performance & mpg
The sole engine choice is the Mercedes-engineered 3.2-liter, SOHC V6 -- it produces 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. Buyers have their choice of a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission or a five-speed automatic.
Safety
Standard safety equipment includes four-wheel antilock brakes with BrakeAssist, side airbags, traction control and stability control. Crash test scores for the Crossfire are not yet available.
Driving
Like the Mercedes' SLK roadster, with which it shares its engine, the Crossfire is quick but certainly not fast. Low-end torque is not plentiful, and most of the usable power is available between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm. The delivery is smooth throughout, however, and the slick shifting six-speed makes it fun to mix up the gears in order to keep the engine primed and ready. The Crossfire's stiff body structure and oversized tires give it crisp handling characteristics when exercised on back roads. We'd like a little more communication from the steering, but as it is, this sport coupe is a delight to drive. And on those occasions when you merely want to cruise down the highway, the Crossfire obliges with a smooth and quiet ride.
Interior
If you're considering a Crossfire for reasons beyond pure performance, you'll be pleasantly surprised by its comfortable and quiet cabin. Entry and exit take some getting used to because of the low roof that curves down to meet the side windows, but once inside, headroom is plentiful due to the car's domed shape. And the standard high-backed, leather bucket seats emblazoned with the Chrysler logo are easy to slide into. Because of the car's swooping shape, rearward visibility is severely hampered. The handsome two-tone cockpit is accented with metallic trim and certainly personifies the Mercedes-Benz heritage. Peer closer and you'll see that most of the trim is merely silver plastic; the brushed metal shift knob for the six-speed is a notable exception. Moreover, some of the controls, such as the radio's numerous unlabeled buttons, are difficult to use. The 7.6 cubic feet of cargo space won't hold more than a couple of suitcases, but then, such is the reality when choosing to drive a two-seater coupe.
2004 Chrysler Crossfire models
Chrysler is so confident in the Crossfire's overall package that only one trim level is available and the options list is short. Standard features include leather upholstery; heated, power seats; manual dual-zone climate controls; one-touch power windows; and a 240-watt stereo with a CD player. The standard wheel/tire arrangement calls for 18s in front (with 225/40ZR18 Michelin Pilots) and 19s in back (with 255/35 rubber); buyers can get all-season tires as a low-cost option.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2004 Chrysler Crossfire.
5 star(85%)
4 star(11%)
3 star(4%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
211 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.5 out of 5 stars
Great car!!
bluefrog2, 08/01/2011
2004 Chrysler Crossfire 2dr Sports Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 5A)
I felt compelled to review based upon a touch of misinformation I've seen out there; if you want this car you should have no worries about buying a well-maintained one.
I was not looking for this car but, when I found it I instantly fell in love! The car is fun to drive, plenty powerful (you won't be beating Corvettes in it - if you want to race high-power sports cars get something … else), and handles much better than my BMW 330 did.
Two issues I'd like to speak to: the engine mechanicals are a bit loud - relax, you're not about to throw a rod! Rearward visibility obviously isn't like a mini-van, but you'll acclimate to it quickly. If you want one, buy one, you be glad you did!
4.88 out of 5 stars
Amazing Sports Car
Crossfire Trail, 06/18/2008
2004 Chrysler Crossfire 2dr Sports Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Granted, Chrysler only lent its name to this car for, without a doubt it is a thoroughbred. with a few performance modifications and a few changes here and there, you have a world class sports car. There is no doubt about who built this car, it's German heritage shines through in performance and design. Simply stated, this car is absolutely fantastic from its brilliant skin to it's … impressive manners and a plush interior that isn't found in many cars 3 times it's price. I'm in love with motoring all over again.
4.88 out of 5 stars
I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!
manoelramon, 11/18/2012
2004 Chrysler Crossfire 2dr Sports Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
I am very proud for having this car.. it is almost 2 years and I NEVER had one single problem... the car is beautiful.. the people really asked about the car, turns the head.. and ride.. dude.. the ride is cool.. very fast ... very safe.. 80% of this car is a mercedez slk.. I change the oil myself because it requires 0w40 and it is cheaper if I do it myself.. the car is very … confortable.. my friend has a porshe carrera and sorry porshe lovers!!! this car is much more comfortable comparing to the hard porshe... I will keep this car with me forever.. it is one of few 20.000 cars that arrives in USA... LOVE IT!!
4 out of 5 stars
Awesome car for the price
Mike, 06/19/2016
2004 Chrysler Crossfire 2dr Sports Coupe (3.2L 6cyl 6M)
Bought the 04 model because everything was standard that year. Not a daily driver for a guy 6'3 (6'0 probably the limit) but I bought it for weekend use on backroads and getaways . I like it's uniqueness in my area and it's rarity in the world. Yes you can find better performers, but not for less the double what i paid. The brakes approach supercar status with it's stopping power and … the Mercedes drivetrain is a big plus. My car has 93k on it but most of those miles were between 04 and 2012 so I had it inspected by my mechanic and he found no issues. A fun car and well worth the price if your looking for a coupe on a budget.
2004 Crossfire Highlights
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $33,620 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 18 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $226/month |
Seating | 2 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 7.6 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Crossfire include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5PassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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