Chrysler Crossfire
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Offbeat sportscar based on the previous generation Mercedes SLK, but let down by an inert driving experience.
Review
The Crossfire should be seen as the antidote to the default choice sportscar. Both coupe and convertible versions are available, based on the same structure as the previous Mercedes SLK, and exclusivity is assured by limited sales and the less-than-universal appeal of the offbeat styling.
The Crossfire certainly doesn't look like anything else on the road thanks to its slightly retro, recognisably American design - clearly harking back to the hot rods of the 1950s and 60s. The coupe's filled-out shape and high roofline make it impressively spacious for a two seater. And although the convertible is the better looker when running open-topped, it makes do with a fabric roof instead of the SLK's folding metal hardtop.
The cabin is solidly constructed and the multi-adjustable driving position is good, although details like the shiny dashboard plastics look a bit out of place in a car trying to compete against such upmarket rivals. There's plenty of headroom inside, but the coupe's boot is on the tight side and the convertible's is miniscule, especially with the roof folded.
On-road manners are a bit stodgy by sportscar standards. The Crossfire has lots of grip and a reasonably comfortable ride, but there's none of the dynamic connection a driver might expect in a car of this type - it feels aloof and inert. Cruising at higher speeds is noisy, too.
Two engines are available, with the standard 3.2 litre V6 being more than potent enough - it's almost impossible to make any kind of rational case for the expensive and thirsty SRT6. And it's worth avoiding the terrible manual transmission, although a five-speed automatic gearbox is an expensive option.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
Distinctive and unique. You'll instantly know whether the Crossfire is for you or not, but full marks to Chrysler for producing something so different.
Handling
3 star
Safe and predictable up to the impressively high limits, but limited driver involvement means there's little fun to be had in pressing the Crossfire hard.
Comfort
4 star
Good by class standards thanks to a nice, spacious cabin and decently compliant ride quality. Noisy at speed, though.
Quality & Reliability
3 star
Solid feeling, but the shiny dashboard plastics look a bit downmarket for something trying to compete in this segment
Performance
4 star
The standard 3.2 litre V6 has plenty of urge, while the supercharged SRT-6 is needlessly fast considering the inert chassis.
Roominess
3 star
Good by the limited standards of two-seat sportscars. Access to the coupe's cabin is easy and there's plenty of headroom once you're in there. Bootspace is limited, though.
Running Costs
2 star
Fuel economy is poor, insurance is expensive and depreciation is on the high side for a car in this segment - although the convertible holds its value noticeably better than the coupe.
Value for money
4 star
With lots of performance and good standard equipment the Crossfire makes a decent financial case for itself, although making buyers pay extra for an automatic gearbox seems a bit rich - especially considering the standard manual 'box is so bad.
