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2005 Chrysler Crossfire Preview

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Khatir Soltani

In case the Crossfire Roadster's price point makes it appear starkly equipped compared to its competitors, a quick look at the standard features list puts the question to rest. Standard amenities include a power convertible fabric top, fully powered hard tonneau, power windows, speed (cruise) control, premium sound system with subwoofers and 240-watt amplifier, heated leather power seats, dual-zone temperature control, speed-activated rear spoiler, four-wheel anti-lock brakes with brake assist, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), all-speed traction control, tire pressure monitoring system, heated mirrors, fog lamps, a universal garage door opener, and fitted touring gear luggage.

Even though it's price suggests the Roadster is starkly equipped, that's hardly the case. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

That's right, Chrysler even includes a three-piece luggage set that boasts design elements of the car integrated into its design. The largest bag features five "speed lines" stitched into its front fabric panel just below an embossed Crossfire logo and a winged Chrysler nameplate, while the wheels are miniature 7-spoke alloy rims on black tire-like rubber. Even the zipper pulls are designed to look like the Crossfire's side strakes. While the luggage is standard, Chrysler offers a stylish humidor that fits neatly into the center console. The automaker reports more Crossfire branded merchandise is on the way.

The Roadster can be ordered in a variety of colors, from subdued and sleek Graphite Metallic to the more expressive Classic Yellow. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press)

The 2005 Roadster can be ordered in seven colors, including Classic Yellow, Aero Blue, Alabaster, Black, Blaze Red, Graphite Metallic and Sapphire Silver Blue. Interior colors schemes include Dark Slate Grey, Dark Slate Grey and Vanilla two-tone, Dark Slate Grey and Cedar two-tone, and Dark Slate Grey and Medium Slate Grey two-tone.

Options and colors aside, more roadster rivals compete directly with the convertible Crossfire than the coupe, but Chrysler's premium Roadster still is priced to undercut the competition. The list includes BMW's $51,800 to $72,020 Z4, and Porsche's $60,650 to $143,425 Boxster (the Boxster offers many more options than any of its rivals hence its much higher fully loaded price). Not to forget the Crossfire's kissing cousin Mercedes-Benz SLK, it starts at $55,950 and ends up at $84,842 in 349-hp SLK32 AMG trim.

Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 8 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada