This makes the Crossfire Roadster is a very road-competent product. Long sweeping turns can be decisively attacked with
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| A civilized ride accompanies the Roadster's sensational handling. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
vengeance. Once a line is established, it's very easy to set the Crossfire and hold the intended arc throughout the turn by balancing throttle and steering inputs. Turn-in is quick and very precise; especially considering it uses Mercedes' old recirculating ball type, considered by most to be less sporting than rack and pinion. Some may find the resistance level of the steering a bit much, but with its cat-like reflexes a lighter setup may contribute to unintentional oversteer. As I mentioned previously, what's so amazing about the Crossfire is the civilized ride that accompanies the sensational handling. But as good as it is I just wish the seat bottoms provided greater thigh support. Plenty of side bolstering kept me firmly fixed, but additional length and depth in the seat cushion would lead to complete seating bliss.
Blissful from the get-go are the Crossfire 4-wheel vented disc brakes. They can be snapped on instantaneously and with just the
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| The Crossfire Roadster features Chrysler's first application of Electronic Stability Program. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press) |
perfect amount of speed-defusing force once accustomed to. A little care is needed initially, as I found the brake pedal quite sensitive due to the lightness-of-touch in its calibration. I would prefer pedal actuation that requires slightly more involvement of the quadriceps. In-motion
safety is further enhanced with Electronic Stability Program - a first for Chrysler (it now comes standard in the
Chrysler 300 and Dodge Magnum). According to Chrysler, this system works by braking individual wheels to correct understeer and oversteer. Basically, it helps to keep the vehicle on the road when slippery conditions are encountered or when a driver's courage outweighs common sense and prudence. An all-speed traction control system is also part of the Crossfire's safety versus courage equation.
