Design
The stylish Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 Roadster is almost over the top on the outside, while the inside exhibits typically austere German design influences.
One thing about the Chrysler Crossfire is certain: It’s got style. And though the SRT-6 version is the stronger performer, on the outside it actually looks weaker due to highlighted side strakes and bright-finish multi-spoke wheels that reek of Mary Kay Edition livery. Some might also find the grooved hood, huge rear lettering spelling out C-R-O-S-S-F-I-R-E, and giant eggcrate grille capped by Chrysler’s classic winged badge and book-ended by projector beam headlights to be rather extreme, and I wouldn’t disagree. In addition to the brightwork added to the SRT-6’s sides and wheels, this performance model also gets a fixed rear wing and a front chin spoiler. The roadster’s power-operated fabric top includes a glass rear window and defogger, and is covered by a hard shell when stowed in its well for open-air motoring. It takes 24 seconds to drop the top and windows, and 31 seconds to button things up. Color choices for the Chrysler Crossfire SRT-6 are limited to Aero Blue, Graphite, Sapphire Silver, and Black. Inside, the Crossfire looks and smells like a Mercedes-Benz, with typically austere Germanic design dressed up with glitzy silver plastic trim that underscores the puzzle-like appearance of the dashboard. Rough pebbled texturing for the dash and door panels, rubberized knobs for the stereo, decent quality plastics, and soft leather coat the cabin. SRT-6 models get a 200-mph speedometer, more supportive seats with bigger side bolsters and “SRT-6” embroidery, Nappa Pearl leather upholstery with Alcantara inserts and bolsters, and gray stitching on the seats and steering wheel. Safety equipment includes next-generation dual front airbags and side-impact airbags mounted in the doors. Short rollbars are located just behind each front seat headrest, but they don’t look as though they would protect tall people much.
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