An Ideal Mix of Sport and Elegance

It was close to a year ago that I speculated Chrysler would lop the top off of its sensational new coupe in a news story (January 28, 2003: Will this Chrysler Crossfire Convertible Join the Coupe in 2005?).

While Id like to be revered as an inspired seer penetrating the inner sanctum of autodom, its not as if the news of the Crossfire Roadsters arrival was unexpected. Some things, rather, just make so much sense it would only be major news if nothing happened at all.

After spending a day in a preproduction Crossfire Coupe in Southern California during its North American media launch, I knew there was only one thing that could make it better. OK maybe two things, but Chrysler is satisfying my insatiable thirst for speed in an

Its not as if the news of the Crossfire Roadsters arrival was unexpected, but its good to see it finally been announced. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

The other wish was first unveiled to me in the flesh during a pre-Detroit media event Chrysler Group held in Motowns Cobo Hall. Sure November isnt exactly the time of year, nor Detroit the most suitable place to pull the sheet off of a new roadster, but I would have been much more put out if they had kept it under wraps.

Gorgeous it is, just like its coupe

The Crossfire transforms into a ragtop as if it were made for it, which of course is the truth. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

Whatever, if cloth is good enough for BMWs Z4 then Chrysler fans shouldnt be concerned with the Crossfire getting a less sophisticated setup than its M-B relation. And its not as if Chryslers fabric unit is a canvas tent either,

"Top up or down, this is a great-looking sports car. Sunshine and fresh air are just 22 seconds away," commented Chrysler Group VP Jeff Bell. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

The soft-top retracts easily too, according to Chrysler. A simple two step process, starting with the twisting release of the handle located on the windshield header which drops the side windows while lifting the front half of the top by about 8-inches. A center console mounted button does the rest, tucking the top under a hard tonneau cover when all is said and done.

Whether putting the top up or down the process doesnt take long, according to Jeff Bell, Vice President, Chrysler Group. "With

"We use sport bars and tonneau cover fairings to give Crossfire Roadster even more of an aerodynamic appearance," stated Senior VP of Design Trevor Creed. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

I like the roll hoops, as well-suited to the design as they are functional safety devices. Chrysler once again calls them "sport bars" (see January 7, 2004: 2005 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible Preview), possibly to woo the mostly male customer demographic the brand is targeting.

I spoke with Trevor Creed, Chrysler Groups Senior Vice President of Design, after the November introduction, and he was enthused about the new roadsters styling. "Our new 2005 Chrysler Crossfire Roadster captures the spirit of the Crossfire

Once the Roadster hits 60 mph, a retractable spoiler helps prevent rear lift. (Photo: DaimlerChrysler)

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