As impressive as it is to look at, the center stack is not without its detractions - minor though they are. I found the many little buttons of the audio unit too small to use intuitively. Steering wheel mounted audio controls would relieve this irritation and be most welcomed by the constant radio station switchers among us. On the positive side, the audio system sounds sensational, one of the best I have ever sampled in such a small cabin.
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| The lack of steering wheel controls and small center stack buttons made using the audio system a minor irritation. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
Until one knows exactly which switch does what in the row of switches below the audio unit, it requires a keen eye to decipher the small symbols assigned to each switch. But as I said, these are minor quibbles. Overall the Crossfire's clean, inspired cockpit is smartly laid-out and fits like a scuba diving wetsuit - which is exactly how it should.
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| The rear-wheel drive Crossfire is fitted with a 215-hp 3.2-liter, 18-valve SOHC engine. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
But don't let the wetsuit analogy delude you into believing that the Crossfire performs like a boat. Nothing could be further from the neoprene. The rear-wheel drive coupe is fitted with a 3.2-liter, 18-valve SOHC engine that arouses 215 horsepower and a commendable 229 foot-pounds of torque - not bad for a coupe weighing in at only 1,388 kg (3,060 lbs). Quite frankly, I was impressed with what the somewhat low horsepower rating could do for Chrysler's sports car. Although some auto journalists have criticized the Crossfire, complaining - rather whining - that it is underpowered, I take the opposite view. It's a blast to drive. Power comes on immediately and stays as long as needed. I found this engine to be nothing short of enchanting. It pulls relentlessly and sounds like a 747 at take-off - what a great combination. Unless Corvette hunting is your thing, I doubt the Crossfire would disappoint in the acceleration department. Remember, it's all about the power to weight ratio, ideal in the Crossfire. But as good as it is, Chrysler has an answer to those wanting Corvette levels of power. Hold on a short time because Chrysler will soon introduce the Crossfire SRT6, which will pump out a massive 330-horsepower from its supercharged version of the Crossfire 3.2-liter V6.
