Press Kit: 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster Launch

Chrysler designers started dreaming of a Crossfire Roadster model when the first concept Crossfire coupe was unveiled at the 2001 North American International Auto Show. Their dream comes true this spring when the new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster hits the streets.

“The new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster is a drop-top that will drop jaws,” said Trevor Creed, Senior Vice President, Design, Chrysler Group. “Even with the integration of a fabric top, our designers met the challenge of maintaining Crossfire’s distinctive lines and dynamic proportions. Sometimes when you cut off the roof of a car to create a convertible, the end result isn’t what you expect. In the case of Crossfire Roadster, that’s not true. It is just as handsome, if not more dashing, than the coupe,” said Creed.

Exterior: Sculpted Design
Crossfire Roadster’s rear view is instantly recognizable with its tapered, “boat tail” appearance that emphasizes the sports car’s 19-inch rear wheels.

Similar to the coupe, a retractable spoiler is designed into the rear of the vehicle and activates when the car reaches 60 miles per hour. The center high-mounted stop lamp (CHMSL) runs the width of the deployable rear spoiler. Seam lines on the fabric top flow with and complement Roadster’s rear “boat tail” lines.

To achieve even more of an aerodynamic appearance, satin silver painted sport bars appear just behind the driver and passenger seats. Two race-inspired fairings integrated into the top of the tonneau cover complete the dynamic appearance of the sports car.

With its long hood and fast back, Chrysler Crossfire Roadster has a dynamic side view. The car’s broad shoulders envelop 19-inch rear wheels. Front wheels measure 18 inches. With larger wheels in back, the side profile has a poised stance.

The sculpted hood prominently showcases Chrysler’s new signature winged badge which spans the entire upper width of the chrome grille. Six grooves run the length of the hood and complement the front grille.

From plan view, a center spine runs the length of the car and provides a chiseled, carved appearance. The line starts at the front grille and concludes at the dual exhaust tips.

Interior: Machined Precision
Chrysler Crossfire Roadster’s sophisticated twin cockpit interior complements the exterior. The center spine shape on the exterior appears on the center console, shifter and instrument panel. From the driver’s seat, the center spine shape appears to continue from the instrument panel through the windshield and on to the hood.

Seats are trimmed in leather with Chrysler’s signature winged badge embossed into both headrests. The ignition switch is located on the instrument panel as opposed to the steering column.

Precise, elegant gauges are white-on-black with a black bezel and satin silver trim rings. The center console has a metallic appearance that flows from the top of the instrument panel through the center of the car to achieve a cockpit environment. Satin silver accents are featured throughout the interior including the doors, steering wheel, and instrument cluster.